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Write Mary Berecka and Lia Friedman, "What wisdom does the Queendom of Fungi have to share and how can we emulate fungi? Often unseen, the relational qualities of fungi are dynamic and diverse. Through the lens of fungal ecology, we will try to glean inspiration for how we can shape and build strong connections to our communities and within ourselves, touching on themes from the modern mycology movement. "

Mary Berecka is a rugged nerd. From her Grandpaw, she acquired a “DIY or die” approach to the world. She has been a finisher, welder, farmer, and land access advocate. Amidst a transition from city life back to rural roots, Mary discovered fungi. That initial spore, the notion of a “Mother Tree”, continues to provide inspiration to her, evidencing the ways fungi reveal interconnected nature. Mary is particularly interested in ecology, centered in mycology, community resilience, local food systems, and soil health. She currently calls Portland, Maine home.

Lia Friedman is a farmer and educator based in the Hudson Valley. Over the past decade working with young people, she has taught coastal ecology in Maine, led backpacking and canoeing trips throughout New England, developed a nature-based sex education curriculum, and gotten excited about a lot of cool bugs. She derives endless joy from walking in the woods with her dog Aoife.