Plants & Beats

This week on Plants & Beats, we're doing something a little different.Rob (@byrobbell) sits down with German producer and DJ Cuezy. (@cuezy._) to celebrate the release of the six-track EP, Endless Summer by Aloefi (@al0efi) and Cuezy.More than a collection of beats, Endless Summer is a concept album designed to capture the feeling of a perfect summer day.Throughout the episode, Rob and Cuezy discuss their individual musical journeys, how a friendship across continents turned into a creative partnership, and insights behind every song on the project. Before each track, they share the inspiration, production process, and memories that shaped the music you'll hear.This week's featured plant is basil—a fragrant herb that flourishes with regular care and brings people together around the table. Like the collaboration between Aloefi and Cuezy, basil reminds us that the best things in life are cultivated with patience, consistency, and shared intention.Every song featured in this episode comes directly from Endless Summer, making this a behind-the-scenes listening experience unlike any other episode of Plants & Beats.Featured GuestCuezyProducer • DJ • Collaborator on Endless SummerPlant of the WeekBasil (Ocimum basilicum)Listen to Endless SummerSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4xOmatomfD3l3qujnNyxTN?si=7M1t0988QmyHoJQ_8mQemAApple Music:https://music.apple.com/us/album/endless-summer-ep/6783602514Featured Plant Care Guidehttps://linkly.link/2mLb3Tell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell, produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network, and features original music produced and mixed by Aloefi.Peace and blessingsMentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

On this episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell (@byrobbell) sits down with photographer Nick Koch, better known as @rocstreetphoto.Nick shares his journey from leaving high school early to building a career in the same industry for decades, where he became a Zamboni expert while continuing to pursue photography as a creative outlet. He also opens up about living with chronic pain caused by a medical condition and how cultivating cannabis became part of his personal healing journey.This week's featured plant is the Cannabis Sativa. While often surrounded by debate, cannabis has a long history as both a medicinal and agricultural plant. Like growing tomatoes, cultivating healthy cannabis requires attention to light, water, nutrients, and timing.As always, the conversation is anchored by a lo-fi soundtrack produced and mixed by Aloefi (@al0efi).Featured GuestNick KochPhotographer • Zamboni Expert • Hobbyist Cannabis GrowerPlant of the WeekCannabis (Cannabis sativa)Featured Plant Care GuideIf you’ve been listening to the show and want to go a little deeper, I’d love for you to join the Plants & Beats Patreon.The plant care guide is free to view, so you can tap in to learn more about the plant of the week and keep growing with us between episodes.https://linkly.link/2m6L9There are also other cool features available through different membership tiers, including columns from Rob Bell, unedited interviews, minute meditations, secret mixtapes, DJ sets, access to the Plants & Beats group chat, and more.Plants & Beats has always been about slowing down, finding peace, and building a community rooted in music, wellness, and growth.Come join the garden.Tell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell, produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts), and features original music mixed and produced by Aloefi.No matter how difficult the season, keep growing.Peace and blessings.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

On this episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell (@byrobbell) sits down with his brother, Mike Patterson, a gun-violence-prevention and disability advocate, founder of the Rochester nonprofit MPP 360, and voice for community change.Together, they explore the complex relationship between Black Americans and Juneteenth, reflecting on what the holiday means today. The conversation also dives into fatherhood, the influence of rap music, and Mike's commitment to serving the Rochester community through advocacy, mentorship, and lived experience.This week's featured plant is hemp—one of humanity's oldest cultivated plants. Known for its remarkable versatility, hemp has been used for thousands of years to create clothing, rope, paper, food, and countless other essentials. As always, the episode is woven together with a lo-fi soundtrack produced and mixed by Aloefi (@al0efi).Featured GuestMike PattersonFounder, MPP 360Gun Violence & Disability AdvocatePlant of the WeekHemp (Cannabis sativa)Featured Plant Care Guidehttps://linkly.link/2lICTTell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell, produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts), and features original music mixed and produced by Aloefi.No matter how difficult the season, keep growing.Peace and blessings.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

On this episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell (@byrobbell) reconnects with a longtime friend, Colin Fequa, better known as Figgadelli (@figgadel_gg), a Philadelphia-born rap artist now based in Atlanta.The conversation travels through decades of friendship, from childhood memories and shared experiences growing up to Colin's evolution as an artist, father, and man. Colin reflects on his family's rich musical legacy, including his connection to his cousin, the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes of TLC.Colin also opens up about a frightening chapter from his adolescence when a serious heart condition led to a near-fatal medical emergency. Through resilience, faith, and perspective, he shares how that experience shaped the way he approaches life, family, and creativity today.This week's featured plant is the ZZ Plant, one of the most resilient houseplants you can own. Known for thriving in low light, surviving periods of neglect, and continuing to grow through challenging conditions.As always, the stories are accompanied by a lo-fi soundtrack produced and mixed by Aloefi (@al0efi)Featured GuestColin Fequa (Figgadelli)Philadelphia-born Rap Artist & CreativePlant of the WeekZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)Featured Plant Care Guidehttps://linkly.link/2kQXFTell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell, produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts), and features original music mixed and produced by Aloefi.No matter how difficult the season, keep growing.Peace and blessings.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

This week on Plants & Beats, Rob Bell (@byrobbell) sits down with Danielle Nunez, better known as @danni.hearts, a certified Reiki healer and the founder of The Adored Project.What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a worldwide movement. Through The Adored Project, Danni hands out heart-shaped pieces of paper featuring handwritten affirmations to people she encounters in everyday life. To date, she has shared more than 25,000 hearts, offering encouragement, connection, and reminders of worth to strangers across the globe.In this heartfelt conversation, Danni shares the story behind the project, the impact of small acts of kindness, and her personal journey of resilience. Together, Rob and Danni explore the ways healing, mindfulness, and community can transform lives.This week's featured plant is the Sunflower. Known for turning toward the sun throughout its life cycle, the sunflower symbolizes optimism, perseverance, and growth. It also produces seeds that nourish birds, wildlife, and people alike. Like Danni, the sunflower reminds us that even in difficult conditions, we can continue reaching for the light and create something meaningful for others.As always, the conversation is accompanied by a lo-fi mix produced and mixed by Aloefi (@al0efi)Featured GuestDanielle NunezCertified Reiki Healer & Founder of The Adored ProjectPlant of the WeekSunflower (Helianthus annuus)Featured Plant Care Guidehttps://linkly.link/2k8YJTell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell, produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts), and features original music mixed and produced by Aloefi.Keep growing. Keep creating. Keep sharing your light.Peace and blessings.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

Episode 21: The Sensitive PlantOn this episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell sits down with Rochester-based street photographer and curator Richard B. Colón, founder of Behind The Glass Gallery.The conversation explores his passion for creating opportunities for emerging artists, the responsibility of curating community-centered exhibitions, and the importance of preserving local stories through imagery.Richard also opens up about the special bond he shares with his father and how that relationship has shaped both his life and creative journey.This week's featured plant is the Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the Sensitive Plant. Famous for folding its leaves inward when touched.As always, the episode features a lo-fi mix by Aloefi.Featured GuestRichard B. Colón (@richardbcolon)Street Photographer, Curator, and Founder of Behind The Glass Gallery (@behindglassroc)Plant of the WeekMimosa pudica (Sensitive Plant)Featured Plant Care Guidehttps://linkly.link/2jujUTell Us About YourselfTake the Plants & Beats Listener Survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwnaae3QK2xFWy5nS_cYiwrjAjXfGc8GHBp_lr9E-RGuv7xg/viewform?usp=headerListen to More AloefiBest of Aloefi (Apple Music):https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/best-of-aloefi/pl.u-vxy68aYC8X3dpRBest of Aloefi (Spotify):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IlQUrBY5eqcYkZQzRw7Mo?si=T0v930l5Ts6rSz-OqYnkygPlants & Beats is hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell), produced in partnership with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts), and features original music mixed and produced by Aloefi (@al0efi).Peace and blessings.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

In this episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell sits down with Teshelle Bumbry, a marketing mind, wellness curator, and creative connector known for crafting intentional spaces where people can recharge, collaborate, and move past creative blocks. Through her signature retreats and wellness-centered events, Teshelle has built a reputation for bringing like-minded people together with purpose, care, and authenticity.Centered around the spirit of the yarrow plant—long associated with healing, protection, and restoration—this conversation explores what it means to create environments where creativity can breathe again.As always, the dialogue flows over a lo-fi mix by Aloefi.🌼 Featuring Teshelle Bumbry (@t.thebrand) 🧠 Conversations on wellness, creativity & intentional community 🌿 Plant inspiration: The Yarrow 🎧 Hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell) 🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi) 🎙 Produced with the Lunchador Podcast NetworkMentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

Recorded live at Stem (806 Monroe Avenue in Rochester NY), this episode of Plants & Beats brings together community voices, plant wisdom, and conversations about connection. Rob Bell sits down with Matthew Smitley and Quajay Donnell to talk about what makes the Rochester community feel rooted, resilient, and alive.From support systems to creative collaboration, the conversation explores the parallels between caring for plants and caring for people. Set against another lo-fi mix by Aloefi, this episode is about growth in every sense of the word—personal, communal, and creative.🪴 Recorded live at Stem on Monroe Avenue 🌱 Conversations on community, care & connection 🤝 Featuring Matthew Smitley & Quajay Donnell 🎧 Hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell) 🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi) 🎙 Produced with the Lunchador Podcast NetworkMentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

On this episode of Plants & Beats, we spotlight the Money Tree and sit down with Rochester photographer Narada Riley for an honest conversation about hustle culture, ambition, and the emotional weight tied to chasing success. Together, Rob Bell and Narada unpack the highs and lows of the grind, the pressure to keep moving, and the search for balance in a world that constantly tells us to do more.Known creatively as NRAD, Narada has photographed for the Buffalo Bills and built a growing creative reputation through work featured in the Capture the Movement exhibition in Brooklyn and In Honor Of Black Lives in the Bronx. Locally, he was a featured artist in the Seasons of Warhol exhibition at the Memorial Art Gallery.As always, the conversation is backed by a lo-fi mix from Aloefi.📸 Featuring photographer Narada John Riley (@nrad257)🏈 Photography work with the Buffalo Bills💰 Conversations on hustle culture, creativity & purpose🪴 Plant of the Week: The Money Tree🎧 Hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)🎙 Produced with the Lunchador Podcast Network (@lunchadorpodcasts)Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.com

In Episode 17 of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell and Chris Lindstrom talk about something we often forget: you can’t pour from an empty cup. They explore self-care as a responsibility, not just a luxury or trend.A pothos plant can survive even if you forget about it. It keeps growing and doesn’t need much. People are different. Featuring a lo-fi mix from Aloefi.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell) & Chris Lindstrom (@foodabouttown)🎼 Music produced and mixed by Aloefi (@al0efi)Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersCoffee that lifts everyone. joebeanroasters.comConnections with Evan Dawson Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Connections

In Episode 16 of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell and Chris Lindstrom from the Lunchador Podcast Network sits down with Chris Widmaier, former RCSD science teacher and Executive Director of Rochester Ecology Partners, for a powerful conversation about community, sustainability, and the connection between nature and equity. From classroom to canopy, Chris shares how his journey led to building programs that connect young people to the natural world, and why a resilient city must include green spaces for all. As always, the conversation is grounded in an original lo-fi mix by Aloefi. 🎙 Hosted by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell) 🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, TikTok: @aloefianime) Lunchador Podcast Network (IG: @lunchadorpodcasts)

This week on Plants & Beats, we bring you “A Lo-fi Christmas” — a special uninterrupted mix of nostalgic, soulful holiday beats by Aloefi, recorded live with analog warmth and a room full of love. Just cozy textures, crackling ambiance, and that deep December stillness meant to elevate your sense of connection and belonging. 🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, Tiktok: @aloefianime)

In this special episode of Plants & Beats, Rob Bell and guest host Chris Lindstrom from the Lunchadoor Podcast Network go live from the re-grand opening of Stem, a gift and plant shop at 806 Monroe Avenue in Rochester NY, to sit down with owner Kerynn Laraby. Together, they explore the power of houseplants to transform space and spirit, Kerynn’s journey as a small business owner, and what it takes to grow roots in a community. Backed by a lo-fi soundtrack from Aloefi, this episode is a celebration of local life and green beginnings.Interview starts at around 10:00🪴 Live from Stem’s re-grand opening💬 Guest: Kerynn Laraby, owner of Stem (IG:@stem_rochester)🎙 Hosted by Rob Bell (@byrobbell) & Chris Lindstrom (@foodabouttown)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 13 of Plants & Beats, we dig into the wisdom of strawberries—how to know when it’s time to pull, replant, and start fresh. We explore the science behind natural crop defenses and how modern gene editing is helping bring resilience back to the plants we rely on. Paired with another lo-fi mix by Aloefi and reflection from Rob Bell on the importance of changing environments to unlock growth.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, TikTok: @aloefianime)

In Episode 12 of Plants & Beats, we turn our attention to the quiet geometry of desert life. From satellite images of hyperuniform plant patterns to the deep-rooted resilience of Desert Sage, we explore how spacing, stillness, and balance shape survival in harsh environments. Fall may feel like an ending, but it’s also a call to prepare—and to listen. With lo-fi textures from Aloefi and reflections from Rob Bell, this episode is a gentle reminder: needing space isn’t retreat—it’s rhythm.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG:@al0efi, Tiktok: @aloefianime)

In Episode 11 of Plants & Beats, we journey from the wildfire-scarred hills of Altadena to the greenhouses of England, where plants are doing more than growing—they’re healing. We explore how native species like sage and buckwheat are restoring the land through bioremediation, and how wild tobacco is being used to produce future medicines. With lo-fi rhythms by Aloefi and a soulful reflection from Rob Bell, this episode is a call to listen to what the earth is telling us: your healing might already be growing nearby.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, Tik Tok: @aloefianime)

In Episode 10 of Plants & Beats, we unravel the bittersweet story of the butterfly bush—a stunning import turned ecological invader. We offer five pollinator-friendly plants that nourish without harm for late-season flight and deep-rooted balance. With reflection from Rob Bell and a lo-fi mix by Aloefi, this episode reminds us: not everything beautiful is good for the soil—or the soul.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, tiktok: @aloefianime, Youtube: @plantsxbeats)

In Episode 9 of Plants & Beats, we delve into the subtle strength of sensitivity—how plants sense stress, adapt through sumoylation, and overcome adversity. From calcium balance to drought defense, we explore what it takes to remain rooted and thrive in challenging conditions. With a lo-fi mix by Aloefi and a reflection on emotional strength from this episode, it's all about tuning in to the signals—around us and within us.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (IG: @byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (IG: @al0efi, TikTok: @aloefianime)

In Episode 8 of Plants & Beats, we settle into the chill of autumn and explore the fine line between growth and survival. From first frost to molecular defenses, this episode dives into how plants—like people—shift gears when conditions change. As always, Aloefi lays the soundtrack—steady, grounded, and made to weather the change.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 7 of Plants & Beats, we let houseplants take the lead. From air-purifying classics like the Snake Plant and Aloe Vera to peppermint’s pest-repelling power, we explore how greenery doesn’t just clean your space—it clears your head. As spiders sneak in and autumn settles down, let nature reset your vibe with scent, stillness, and style. Featuring reflections on mindful living and a lo-fi soundtrack by Aloefi to keep the energy grounded and clean.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 6 of Plants & Beats, we explore how resilience takes root—from shoreline restoration with native Spartina grass to the quiet power of the Snake Plant, a masterclass in strength through stillness. Fall brings change, and with it, a perfect season to plant fruit trees for future harvests. Featuring insights on nature’s quiet revolutions and lo-fi soundscapes by Aloefi to steady your soul and settle your soil.🎧 New episodes every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 5 of Plants & Beats, we explore the hidden warning signs in your garden—such as grubs chewing at the roots—and discover how nature’s own diversity offers a cure. We explore the latest sci-fi-turned-science, and we spotlight the hardy chrysanthemum, a fall flower with built-in defenses. As always, Aloefi brings the vibe with a fresh lo-fi mix to keep your mind grounded and your spirit glowing.Discover “7 Plants That Repel Grubs From Your Garden” now on plantsandbeats.com🎧 New episodes drop every Friday🎙 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 Music by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 4 of Plants & Beats, we delve into late-season planting tips and the surprising intelligence of plants, as well as the underground fungal networks that keep forests in tune. This week’s spotlight is on the resilient aster: a flower that blooms as others fade, drawing in butterflies and reminding us that endings are just the start of something new. And as always, Aloefi delivers a fresh mix of lo-fi beats to steady your breath and center your soul.New episodes every Friday🎧 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 All tracks by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In the third episode of Plants & Beats, we dig into the quiet wisdom of companion planting—why certain plants, like lavender, thrive with the right neighbors. We also share tips for summer-to-fall transitions.All the while, Aloefi delivers another meditative lo-fi mix, perfect for reflecting, planting, or just breathing deep.🌱 New episodes drop every Friday.🎧 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 All tracks by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In Episode 2 of Plants & Beats, we explore the quiet signals plants give when they’re in distress—starting with a game-changing tool to help you water smarter, not harder. Then, we examine the effects of wildfire smoke on plants. This week’s Plant of the Week is Coffea arabica—the slow-growing source of your morning brew, and a lesson in patience. All set to a fresh lo-fi mix by Aloefi, made for running, resting, or repotting.🌱 New episodes drop every Friday.🎧 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 All tracks by Aloefi (@al0efi)

In the very first episode of Plants & Beats, we share essential tips for keeping your garden thriving through the summer heat—plus a deep dive into the healing power and mythos of the aloe vera plant. All while, Aloefi spins a fresh mix of his signature lo-fi beats, crafted to soothe, slow down, and inspire.🌱 New episodes drop every Friday.🎧 Produced by Rob Bell (@byrobbell)🎼 All tracks by Aloefi (@al0efi)