Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based Education

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Forest Educator Spotlight REPLAY: Working with Middle Schoolers

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Some of my favorite ages to work with are middle schoolers, anywhere from 10-14 years old. Some may say those ages are some of the most challenging, but I really like that age group for so many reasons. I love to help them find their passion and excitement, and to watch them build an inner foundation for themselves and a personal belief that they know who they are, and begin to believe that they can do hard things. In this episode, I'm exploring the different developmental ages and stages during this period of kids' lives and some of my best tips and strategies for working with them effectively. From emotional development, friendship, trust, and self-reflection to skill-building, I hope this episode will help you feel excited about working with this age group, too.

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Forest Educator Spotlight REPLAY: The Bonding Paradox

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The first rule about 'bonding' is like Fight Club:

"Never talk about Bonding."

At least to your students. (Because it's awkward and weird.)

But honestly, so many of the benefits of nature-based education present in the same exact way - basically invisible to most people who aren't paying close attention.

This episode explores ideas around mentoring, teaching, bonding, relationships, and even some staff management/training/hiring concepts too.

We get into the nuances of these concepts, why it's so critical for our development at a young age, and how we as educators can support and facilitate those fleeting moments of connection that come when we least expect it.

Even if you don't work with youth or adults, you might find this episode interesting because you can scan through your own memories for the authentic, bonding moments you've had, and how they affected you.

We all exist in a matrix of community, culture, and nature, and being able to build meaningful relationships is not always easy in today's digital world.

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Forest Educator Spotlight REPLAY: Finding Your Lane as a Forest Educator

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

The paths we take in our journey as educators are incredibly diverse and unique to each of us. We all have different origins, with mentors, teachers, opportunities and our communities all influencing how we do what we do.

In this episode, we explore some of the ways we end up in our 'forest educator lanes', and how to change lanes, as well as why it can be incredibly beneficial to ourselves, our families, our students and our professional growth to make a shift.

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Episode 158 (REPLAY) - Forest Educator Spotlight: Doing Hard Things with Ricardo Sierra

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

An aspect of nature education that I believe is greatly overlooked is the ability and benefit it gives young people to 'Do Hard Things'. This happens when we learn to climb a steep hill, climb a tree, master carving knife safety or learn to think of others in our groups! It happens when we learn to be safe and respectful about campfires. It happens when we begin our studies in wild foods, birds, animal tracks, trees or bushcraft skills. (This list could be very, very substantial!)

All of these help our young people to learn to push through the very real walls of struggle, of effort, of perseverance, and to not shy away from hard work.

It helps them learn about delayed gratification, and find their own 'deep inner drive' that will serve them well in the coming years of continued change.

Whether we are running a forest preschool, guiding adults across a glacier, teaching archery at a wilderness camp or leading a nature based mythology & poetry retreat, we are at our most core level, helping our students become resilient & resourceful in the face of looming change that we will all experience in our lifetime. It's a mission worth supporting, and has incredible returns on the investment for schools, organizations and parents who want to make a difference for our youngest generation.

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Episode 157 (REPLAY) - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Problem with Intangible Results

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

If you've ever tried to talk about the meaning and value of an experience in nature with someone who's never experienced something similar, it can feel like talking to a brick wall.

Our insights, and sense of wonder, or magic can sound ridiculous when spoken out loud. It can be painful when something we share has so much value to US, but completely is misunderstood by our listeners.

The problem isn't with us, or with everyone else, but it's built into the language of our culture, and with the very nature of 'the intangible aspects' of our experiences.

It's a problem for nature people and also for anyone who is really passionate about something, and it's especially a problem for Forest Educators who are working to communicate these values to people who could really benefit from our work and programs.

If you have struggled to craft a message about what you do that resonates with 'your people' who get it, and 'get you', this episode can help you understand why it's often so difficult and why we can drag our feet in making decisions about our promotional material, or about our reluctance to fully commit to our 'message'.

It's time to get clear, take action and begin connecting with everyone in ways that can help us struggle a little less, build more community and enjoy our work!

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Episode 156 - The Power of Science and Nature with Danny Rosenstein

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Going behind the scenes and into the mind of a public school Earth Science teacher was a journey filled with insights about why education is so different from school to school. The diversity of students and the environment/location has a lot to do with these differences, but often I forget how the unique skills and philosophy of the teachers is a factor that should not be underestimated.

Danny Rosenstein shares his journey, from New York's inner city urban schools to alternative schools in the Hudson Valley, and how nature and outdoor learning is experienced differently by students from different environments. We talk about how science gives us the tools to understand our world/universe, but how even science sometimes forgets to include humans in the 'natural world'.

We live in a time in which many students, schools, families and communities are under a great deal of pressure and social and economic change. It's in these times that educators can find ways to help their classrooms become a refuge from that chaotic energy, so they can breathe, learn and get connected in an authentic way.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-rosenstein-a065971b/

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Episode 155 (REPLAY) - The Forest Educator Spotlight: Cold Training

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Fear of being uncomfortable lurks behind almost every outdoor experience when we are first learning to deal with nature's 'moods'. The purifying intensity of cold scours the world when it moves across our landscape, unstoppable and pervasive. All the animals, trees, birds, insects and plants respond in different ways to survive, including all of us human mammals too. Dealing with the mental aspects of cold is part physical preparation, part mental adjustment and part acceptance and gratitude for the winter season, and our experience of 'cold' changes as we build a better relationship with this force of nature.

As leaders and educators, we can bring a new understanding of cold weather to our students and program participants, and give them the gift of what I call the 'Crucible of Leadership'. It's one of the missing ingredients in our communities right now, and our future generations will build a new path from the work we do today.

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Weather Book mentioned in this episode: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-weather-wizards-cloud-book-a-unique-way-to-predict-the-weather-accurately-and-easily-by-reading-the-clouds-workman-undated-diariesadvent-calendars_louis-d-rubin-sr_jim-duncan/317550/item/12542392/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=high_vol_frontlist_standard_shopping_customer_acquisition&utm_adgroup=&utm_term=&utm_content=689361939032&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAjeW6BhBAEiwAdKltMpyGsxAnzbAxObC62rwwwsVJyZJ8vgevJkNz5JOWSHoZz-lMzf1i4hoCoOAQAvD_BwE#idiq=12542392&edition=2748532

Episode 154 - The Gift of Magical Encounters with Animals with John Stokes

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's not uncommon for nature educators to have experiences that defy easy explanations, like the appearance of birds, deer, squirrels or mice in one of our forays into the wild with students. The presence of humans who are quiet and respectful seems to attract wild creatures sometimes, leading to connections that have a powerful impact on our lives.

John and I talk about the importance of program names, the influence and visions of native elders and how mentoring changes lives.

Website: TheTrackingProject.org

Thanksgiving Address Books: https://thetrackingproject.org/the-tracking-project-teaching-resources/

Institute of Natural Law Substack Article: https://instituteofnaturallaw.substack.com/p/tracking-the-language-of-nature-with

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Episode 153 - Awakening Imagination and Exploration at Trackers Earth: An Interview with Molly & Tony Deis

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The most impressive takeaway I get from every encounter I have with Tony, Molly and Trackers Earth is the fact that everyone seems so normalized and nonchalant about their accomplishments in connecting thousands of students each year with nature and imagination. Their network extends from Portland Oregon to Seattle Washington to the north, and the California Bay Area to the south, and until recently, Denver Colorado to the east. The programs are day camps in the summer and after school programming in the school year, with homeschooling programs, adult education and staff training, too. Their work happens in major urban/suburban areas, where the students are living, and they've overcome many obstacles and challenges to give those students opportunities to learn, explore and grow in their own bioregion. They have adapted, learned, pivoted and grown throughout their 20 years of effort and energy, always striving to make things easier, better and get the best results possible.

It's hard to not feel inspired by their laid back approach in the face of their success, and admire their commitment to making a powerful difference for the benefit of our world. It gives me hope, which sadly, seems in short supply these days. Please enjoy their story and insights!

Connect with Molly and Tony:

Website: https://www.trackersearth.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trackersearth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trackersearth/

Video Mentioned in Episode: https://youtu.be/BQHOH7V-Cm8?si=iCTy7aRxRKq08E83

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Episode 152 - Adaptation, Strategic Changes and the Forest Education Endgame

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I know there's a universal reality that 'change is the only constant', but it's also human to try to enjoy stability for as long as possible, especially if it's a pleasant experience. Once it occurs, we transition, we adapt and we hope for continued stability in the new landscape.

This is an ongoing phenomenon, and it's come to this podcast as well.

In this episode, I share these changes as well as the 'why' they are important, especially now. These strategic shifts are aimed at helping us move towards a world where the majority of children and adults have the opportunity to get the 'natural advantage'.

In a world with climate stability, political leadership willing to make long term changes over short term bandaids, we would conceivably have a few generations to wait while the current nature movement moves at its current pace, towards a culture that values and protects nature and all of the gifts it offers humanity.

In our current reality, we don't have the luxury of that kind of glacial time.

The Forest Education endgame is a massive beneficial asset to our culture, but it will only matter if we can accelerate the steps we need to take to make it a reality. It's time for us to move forward with thoughtfulness, care, passion and well designed approaches that can make a difference for millions of children, teens and adults.

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Episode 151 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Holding Space for Healing in Nature

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:56:00 -0000

As nature educators, we often encounter students and participants who struggle with feelings of unworthiness or anxiety when it comes to connecting with the natural world. In this episode, I share the story of a student I worked with many years ago who had a deep desire to immerse herself in nature, but was held back by past traumas and a fear of rejection from the earth itself.

Through our conversations, I learned the importance of approaching these situations with empathy and an open mind, rather than making assumptions. I share how I guided this student to find her own path to feeling safe and accepted in nature, and the profound transformation she experienced when she finally allowed herself to fully surrender to the experience.

I know many of you out there are also navigating your own complex relationships with the natural world. I hope this episode provides some insight and inspiration for how we can create more healing spaces for ourselves and our communities to reconnect with the earth. As always, I'm here if you ever need a listening ear or want to share your own experiences.

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Episode 150 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Educator Initiative

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It feels appropriate in our 150th episode to introduce the Forest Educator Initiative. In the past year and a half I have been discovering areas of nature education advocacy and professional support that could use some development and attention.

It's never easy being a pioneer, and 'field testing' the next generation of nature based education for children and teens and adults around the world, especially when we are reliant on our program funding for our sustenance. Program models, program design, professional networking and of course, effectiveness in outcome delivery are all areas that could use some energy and focus.

It's an exciting time for nature education, and I think we are on the cusp of some major growth if we can get this current 'stage' right!

Thanks for being part of this journey and doing the much needed work you're all doing every day. I appreciate you!

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Episode 149 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Strategies and Guidelines for Working with Adults in Nature

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Working with adult learners in the realm of nature and wilderness skills is profoundly complex. It's a world I've inhabited for many years, and one that has taught me the importance of constantly adapting and evolving my approach. When you've spent the bulk of your career teaching children and young adults, it can be easy to assume that the same methods and strategies will translate seamlessly to an older, more experienced audience. But as I've learned, that couldn't be further from the truth.

The key is to never take anything for granted. Just because someone is an adult, functioning member of society, doesn't mean they possess the foundational skills and knowledge that we might expect. It's a lesson I've had to learn the hard way, through experiences like the stories I share in this episode. When working with adults, we sometimes find ourselves with a stark choice – do I forge ahead with the program, assuming the adult will be able to handle himself, or do I pause and ensure the safety and well-being of the group? It's a decision that underscores the delicate balance we must strike as educators, between respecting the autonomy of our adult students and providing the guidance and structure they may desperately need. I've learned to err on the side of caution, covering the basics with meticulous attention to detail, no matter how tempting it might be to skip ahead. It's a philosophy that has served me well, and one that I hope other nature educators will embrace as they navigate the unique challenges of working with this dynamic and diverse population.

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Episode 148 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Navigating the Hard Days

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:35:00 -0000

"Hard Days" are an inevitable part of life as an educator. It is critical that we have effective strategies to cope, whether that's using physical sensations to reset the mind or allowing ourselves to fully feel and process difficult emotions.

In this episode, I'm also addressing the power of community, connection, and finding beauty in the world as antidotes to the darkness. Gathering around a campfire, immersing ourselves in nature, and simply noticing the kindness of others can help restore our sense of purpose and resilience. The barriers we face may loom tall, but by being honest about the challenges and supporting each other through the hard times, we can continue to grow and transform our work in meaningful ways.

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Episode 147 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Can Nature Education be Scaled to Reach 60 Million Children?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode explores a vision of nature education that sees millions of children across the US and the world, in a meaningful and effective way. The barriers that we face loom tall, but they are not insurmountable. We need certain things in place to actually scale our best working models, like funding, resources, advocacy and training/mentoring, and achieving this takes a considerable amount of time and expertise and experience that we are currently missing in our nature educator community.

I discuss the pros and cons of a spectrum of franchises and a few ideas for expanding our goals and beginning to manifest this visionary journey that could transform our world.

Please note: This is part one of a three part series.

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Episode 146 - Forest Educator Spotlight: So You're Thinking of Becoming a Forest Educator...

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:17:00 -0000

We all have to start somewhere, when it comes to being a Naturalist, or a Tracker, or a Bushcrafter, or a Forest School leader. We get a little training, some time spent honing our crafts and skills, and before we know it, we are suddenly in front of a group of people who are excited to explore and learn from you.

Imposter Syndrome can set in and we can get a little 'Deer in the Headlights' when staring at thirty students and their teachers, frozen in place.

In this episode, we dive into issues of training, commitment, overcoming our fears, gaining confidence and experience and much more.

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https://www.amazon.com/When-Dark-Mother-Calls-Initiatory-ebook/dp/B0CKTYFK4K/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1697520625&sr=8-1

Deep Earth Initiations and Nature-Based Parenthood with Trista Haggerty

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today's guest interview is with my wife and partner Trista Haggerty, who draws upon the deep connection with the land and nature to facilitate healing and inner growth. Her experiences in deep earth initiations, forged in sacred sites all over the world with own mentor Helena Shik provide insights that are often unique in the 'mystics' community.

We discuss some of her work with Hawk Circle Staff and Apprentices over the years, as well as her 'nature based' approach with her own children. Our discussion covers Initiations, Sacred Journeys and the importance of caves for transformation, to name a few topics.

It is a true gift and honor for me to share the wonderful insights and magic of the person I live with here at Hawk Circle!

Her new book 'When the Dark Mother Calls' is available on Amazon, and you can read more of her story of her incredible journey there!

Book Link on Amazon:

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Episode 145 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Essential Art of "Winging It"

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If you are an educator, or a camp counselor, or a program leader or wilderness instructor, there is a not insignificant percentage of the time where you are 'winging it'. We could dress it up, and call it 'creative problem solving' or 'lesson adaptation' to make it sound more professional, but yeah, you are sometimes making things up as you go along.

We have to do that, because at any given time, our students, the school or program administration, or the weather can dictate that immediate change is necessary and we have to scrap what we were doing and figure out some other way to get the job done.

Winging it does sound a little flippant, and 'fly by night', but there is a spectrum of methodology and approach that has on one end a shady, risky, possibly dumb or ill-thought out way of doing it, and on the other side, a safer, generally well considered loose plan that has a lot of leeway as far as implementation and structure. The Bad Way and the Good Way, in other words.

Since you're already winging it anyway, I thought I'd weigh in on some best practices, share some stories, and offer insights into this powerful, often beneficial and innovative program approach. I hope to help out the new educators who have never done this before, and maybe give some more experienced educators and leaders some good ideas as well.

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Episode 144 - Forest Entrepreneur Spotlight: "Should I use 'Fear' in my Nature Program Messaging?"

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Well, it's election time, and we are surrounded by examples of fear based social media posts, television ads, internet ads and all kinds of different things vying for our attention and trying to get us to take some kind of action.

The logic goes something like this: "Well, if they are spending millions of dollars on these ads, they must work, right?"

Well, yes and no. It all depends on who you want to attract with your messaging, and that is where it can get complicated!

This episode is a deep dive into why Fear-based messaging can sometimes be very effective, when it can be damaging to your reputation, and how to make stressful topics easier to understand and actually build trust and positive connections.

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Episode 143 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Why Modern Educators Struggle with Nature & Skills Content

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I've noticed a common theme in many of the Facebook forest school groups I'm a part of. People are constantly asking where they can get the right training to start their own nature programs, and they're seeking suggestions for activities and crafts to do with children.

As an educator, I emphasize the importance of providing children with real challenges and activities that build practical skills, rather than relying on contrived or disconnected experiences. I encourage you to focus on process-oriented, lifestyle-based activities that allow children to connect more deeply to the natural world. It's also crucial for us, as educators, to have our own practical experiences to draw from. While it can be challenging, I believe that by following our passions and interests, we can create meaningful and impactful nature programs for the children we serve.

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Episode 142 - Damage Report: The Impact of Hurricane Helene with Grant Adkisson

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This is a first hand account of Grant Adkisson, who spent days preparing for Hurricane Helene on his farm and nature program Corylace Cove in Mars Hill, North Carolina. This event was catastrophic to communities throughout the Carolinas and Tennessee, and Grant shares what it was like during the storm, and then discovering how widespread and life changing this event has had for thousands of people throughout this region.

Grant talks about why he and his partner Sara chose to continue to offer nature education programs a week or so after the storm, when it was safe and communications and travel was possible, and how their work has adapted to support their emotional needs after experiencing the trauma that follows a natural disaster.

Grant shared the following organizations that can support his surrounding communities in their time of need:

This is fundraiser for ROAR (Rural Organizing and Resilience)

And this is the page for their mutual aid hub. They need chainsaws, splitters and logging chains, ropes and winches donated or bought.

https://ruralorganizing.wordpress.com/2024/10/01/marshall-mutual-aid-hub-is-open/

Walnut Fire Dept in Marshall NC

They were the only swift water rescue in the county and still going hard working out of personal funds and donations(volunteer rescue squad)

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=F9WPZZVQU34Z4&source=url

Grant and Sara's Nature Program Corylace Cove website: https://www.corylacecove.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corylacecove/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086887186054

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Episode 141 - Adventures in PaleoEthnobotany and Evolution with Max Gordon

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The search for knowledge sometimes involves tedious, patient work when it comes to understanding the diet of our distant ancestors. It can involve charcoal analysis at a microscopic level from campfires from 10,000 BC. It can involve the scrapings of carbonized food remains from pottery shards that are clues to what was eaten or used medicinally. It's not particularly flashy or exciting like demonstrating fire by friction to a group of fifth graders, but Max Gordon actually does both.

Max founded the Lionman School of Rewilding and offers programs in nature awareness, earth living skills and crafts in New York, New Jersey and Florida, but his passion extends both forward to future generations while also looking back to the distant past to see our trajectories of human evolution. Our conversation dives into cave art, Utzi the Iceman, wilderness school administration life and even medieval biology.

Website: https://lionmanrewilding.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lionmanrewilding2

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lionmanrewilding/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LionManReWilding

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lionman-school-of-rewilding/

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Episode 140 - Lessons from Bears and Jaguars with John Stokes (Part Two)

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

John returns to the Forest Educator Podcast to share more of his unique journey into nature and tracking. John's work with youth led him to upstate New York, in the Northern border area, where he learned about communicating with bears. (Very helpful to know when you work with youth in the wild!) In each place where he traveled, he found elders who shared powerful experiences that changed how he saw and connected with the natural world. These events helped John tremendously when working with diverse and unique cultures in the American Southwest, Hawaii, Sweden and Brazil.

With every story and conversation, I find myself learning and reflecting about my own connection to nature and self. I find myself thinking about them often, and it's amazing how they go deeper each time, with new meanings and insights that enrich my understanding of the world and my place in it. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these recordings with forest educators everywhere, for a world in need of more peace, more dreaming and new ways of living on the earth.

Website: https://thetrackingproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetrackingproject/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTrackingProject/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetrackingproject

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Episode 139 - Lessons from Bears and Jaguars with John Stokes (Part One)

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Website: https://thetrackingproject.org/

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Episode 138 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Initiatory Power of Hurricane Helene

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I always knew when I was in an 'initiatory experience', because my peaceful, stable, predictable life would suddenly be turned upside down. It is not a pleasant experience, generally, and I would be forced to let go, grow, learn, and expand. Sometimes, the initiation started due to a relationship, or sometimes, community pressures. Other times, it happened more physically, with pressure or forces that left me with no other options. No amount of bargaining, discussion or denial would bring relief.

I learned that when I started feeling that kind of feeling, I was going on a ride and it wasn't 'optional'.

It was never at an optimal time, either.

Right now, there are millions without power, and hundreds of thousands of people dealing with the aftermath of torrential rainfall, unbelievable winds and the scouring roaring of floodwaters unleashed. This event is a marker, a milestone, even, in the lives of those who have experienced this historic storm, and they are in the middle of an 'initiation'.

Understanding what is happening is the key to better decision-making, problem-solving, mental health care and finding our way back to our center, and then finding a path forward.

My heart goes out to the hundreds of thousands whose lives have been shattered, and this episode is for them and all of us who care for them at a distance, who want to support them as we watch their struggle. The power of climate change is here for us all, and the sooner we learn to navigate and understand this new world, the better off we will be as individuals and as part of the natural ecology.

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Episode 137 - Forest Education Without a Forest with David Fisher

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There are lots of times when we as educators face the task of creating a positive nature experience with less than ideal situations. Running forest school sessions in urban schools near a football pitch, or an abandoned lot is not always what we were thinking we were getting into when we envisioned being nature educators or went through our training!

In this episode, David Fisher and I explore some of these challenges and how they might be mitigated both on an individual or community level and at the professional or association level. We talk about how there are missing elements in our profession right now that could greatly help Forest School leaders to achieve excellent learner outcomes and to remain consistent across the spectrum of unique educational environments.

David Fisher is a teacher, Forest School Leader and Forest School Trainer who provides courses and programs both in the UK and Internationally.

Instagram: @rooted.learning

Website: https://www.rootedlearning.co.uk/

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Episode 136 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Ancestral Lessons in Nature Program Design

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When I created the Hawk Circle Wilderness Camp back in 1989, I started with a goal to offer something 'real' to students & campers. I began to scour my knowledge and imagination of how our ancestors were connected to the land in visceral, intrinsic ways, from the moment of birth to their very end of life.

I sought to add these elements, or threads of understanding, one strand a time, in a way that would feel natural, unassuming, without a lot of drama or fanfare or 'calling attention to ourselves', etc, because I felt that when people find themselves in the natural world, they have uniquely powerful and authentic experiences that are 'self-created' or discovered.

I believed, and still do, that this form of experiential education is one way to build a powerfully strong identity and connection to the world and self that serves them well both now and in the challenges and trials we find in the days ahead.

This episode explores these themes and how they relate to some of my program design philosophy that has been effective for decades.

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Episode 135 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Invitation to Dream Bigger

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:31:00 -0000

There are a lot of 'ingredients' in most forest educator programs that make up the bulk of the experiences. Crafts. Skills. Games. Challenges. Free Play. Exploration. (and more).

Viewed as a recipe, they would be the big items in whatever dish you're making. They'd take up a lot of space in the pot or pan, and they would get the most attention.

But there are also the smaller ingredients in the mix, that are often completely overlooked and seldom thought about, that are critical to making the dish come together, and work, like salt, or seasonings, or baking powder. When these are missing, it is a big deal.

When it comes to crafting and inviting students to have an 'Experience' in our programs, the little things matter in the same way. Our stories are important, and how we frame the lessons, or time spent together, and our intent, as well.

This episode explores some of these small but mighty 'secret ingredients' that pack a lot of power and energy, especially around the ideas of inspiration, mastery, pushing beyond our perceived limits and the value of focus and attention to detail. These have the capacity to provide some incredibly long lasting impact for students and educators alike.

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Episode 134 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Surprising Benefits of Hard Work

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The one question I get asked about most is about program design, curriculum and activities for older children, teens and young adults.

There are lots of good ideas and content out there that covers nature/science combos, or nature/language arts or nature/creative arts, and those are awesome.

In this episode, I share some of the things I've learned over the more than three decades of working with young people and how 'work projects' can have incredible and valuable life skills and long term outcomes that pay off in multiple ways.

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Episode 133 - Tracking with Aboriginal Elders, Healing the World with John Stokes

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It was through Tom Brown Jr and his Tracker School that I came to meet John. It was 1984, on a farm in western New Jersey, and he was an instructor at the school, and spending seven days with him and the rest of the staff and Tom changed the direction of my life in a radical way.

John was pulled to New Mexico in 1986, where he founded The Tracking Project, and began running rites of passage camps for boys and girls, as well as adult trainings and retreats. I was incredibly fortunate to spend time in his Nurturing the Roots Mentoring Program, where he had gathered elders from Australia, Sweden, Hawaii, Mexico, Brazil, and across North America. Learning and connecting with those elders and John and his staff was a revelation that blew my mind, because they held a mentoring space that was unlike anything I had experienced before.

This experience changed the way I tracked animals, connected to nature, taught and led my camps, trainings and programs. It even affected my personal and community relationships

In this first of a series of conversations, we dive into what learning tracking does to us and for us as human beings, and John describes his apprenticeship with some of the best trackers in the world.

Please enjoy Episode #133.

Website: https://thetrackingproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetrackingproject/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTrackingProject/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetrackingproject

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Guardian Article: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/aug/16/forest-school-kids-children-wholesomeness?fbclid=IwY2xjawFGHjpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHcPiqmTXxigdia-3hUHjNGD_dfrvCltmCkKI5uvVO3IU0-v5O--Fq5vabQ_aem_b_HsH0bqger7b-YmGOCfRg

Episode 132 - Is the Recent Guardian Opinion-Article a 'Hit Piece' on Forest Schools? Understanding the Nature Media Narratives with Asa Hardy-Brownlie

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It came out of nowhere, right as hundreds of Forest School Leaders were preparing for the Autumn semester: An opinion piece in The Guardian ominously titled "I'm All For the Concept of Forest School, Just Not the Kind I Pulled My Kids Out Of." by Emma Brockes.

It's just six paragraphs of cynical observations around schools, camps, forest schools and misunderstanding, but it packs a lot of criticism for nature education without a lot of detail, nuance or substance. It's the kind of piece that can and did get under the skin of a LOT of dedicated, passionate educators who did not take kindly to the views expressed.

Asa Hardy-Brownlie and I discuss this and nature education media narratives in detail and talk about the challenges we face as a profession to effectively respond to these kinds of pieces that can really skew the understanding of parents, teachers and schools. What sorts of ways do we want to communicate what we do and why it's important and valuable to children and families?

We talk about websites, social media and ideas and ways of shaping our messaging so it sticks and is effective, which are some of the gold nuggets we can glean from this experience.

Building a Story Brand Book by Donald Miller: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400201837/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?smid=AX2JROIIWRZYD&psc=1

The Forest School Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-forest-school-podcast/id1389962726

The Forest School Assistance & Support Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/forestschoolas/posts/1921709608278764/?comment_id=1921860808263644&reply_comment_id=1922381681544890¬if_id=1725393778098826¬if_t=group_comment_mention

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Episode 131 - Holistic Marketing Strategies with Elizabeth Clyde

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The task of communicating the value and benefits of what we do as nature based educators is vital to the long and short term success of our mission/vision, so 'marketing' is one of the hats we wear as part of our leadership roles. But often, we are SO reluctant and hesitant to promote ourselves, and talk about it, and I've seen a LOT of people get really uncomfortable taking the leap into even thinking about it!

Enter my guest for this episode: Elizabeth Clyde. She's been doing 'holistic marketing' for over 17 years with a variety of different businesses and companies, and she shares her view on how the field of marketing has changed over the past few years and where it seems to be heading in the short term future.

If you are one of those people whose website or Instagram or other social media network could use some fresh ideas, this episode is for you.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethclyde1/

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Episode 130 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Experiences of the Sacred and the Profane in Nature Education

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode explores the phenomenon that often occurs when we work with people in nature, where there is a moment of touching the divine, or the light. We also tackle the flip side, where someone in our care goes down, to the rich, warm darkness, where things get raw and primal.

I share about why I find the duality principle both lazy and inadequate as a metaphor, and how its oversimplification can be limiting or even traumatizing for some students. Using the 'ecosystem' as a new model, I share examples of approaches I've found helpful when either polarity shows up in our work as educators, often unexpectedly.

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Book: https://www.amazon.com/Ecotherapy-Healing-Nature-Linda-Buzzell/dp/1578051614/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aAMoldtOyUOD9zSZw0MQx22aqKO-MsSYM5jdfT4ltxHGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.4laEq4b-6Uu9e2U3_hslfnQ8jv4wmV-th0Rgv0Iq99E&dib_tag=se&qid=1724950917&refinements=p_27%3ALinda+Buzzell&s=books&sr=1-1

Episode 129 - Enhanced Mental Health and Healing through Ecopsychology with Linda Buzzell, MA, LMFT

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:22:00 -0000

The world of medicine and academia seems to run on a different timeline than the modern world. Changes take time to process, evaluate, become revised and eventually, approved for integration into the working model for treatment or training. There are good reasons for this process, because acting too quickly can create a lot of confusion, waste of money and time and generally degrade the public opinion of these institutions, but to an outsider, it can be maddening to watch and wait in real time.

The origins of 'eco-psychology' as a branch of mental health treatment and approach began on the personal experiences of therapists and counsellors, and hundreds of studies are confirming its efficacy over the past twenty years. My guest in this episode is Linda Buzzell, MA, LMFT, who is an adjunct faculty at Pacifica Graduate Institute, author of Ecopsychology: Healing with Nature in Mind and an ecopsychologist. She shares why nature is important in the healing process for humans for both physical and mental health, and how it can benefit us as educators to understand what is happening when we take children or adults outside.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-buzzell-ma-lmft-2949ab13/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Linda-Buzzell-100063776733917/

Pacifica Graduate Institute: https://www.pacifica.edu/pacifica-news/nature-connection-practices-that-heal-an-interview-with-linda-buzzell-lmft/

Written Articles: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Linda-Buzzell

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Episode 128 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Why Nature Education is Expensive (And What We Can Do About It).

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode is for nature educators AND Parents, Grandparents, Teachers, Schools and Organizations, as it dives into the reasons why professional Nature Education Programs are priced the way they are.

I present some ideas and details that can promote understanding moving forward, and share some ways that schools, parents, grandparents and organizations can save $ in some cases.

This is a great episode to share with your staff, your student parents, or for schools that you work with, if you feel that they sometimes have trouble 'getting the bigger picture' in the process of setting up or selecting nature programs for students or children. It can help facilitate a more meaningful discussion that includes factors that most people don't understand about nature educators, or take into consideration, so it's meant to support and promote the value of your work.

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Episode 127 - Coming Home to the Earth in South Africa with Reuben Piet

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 17:25:00 -0000

Reuben Piet joins the Forest Educator from Cape Town as a singer, songwriter, musician and transformational nature leader. He draws upon his ancestral roots to create powerful experiences for people of all ages, awakening an ancient remembering of who we are, and why we are here. South Africa, like most of Africa, is a melting pot of diversity, cultures, languages and perspectives, and Reuben shares how he finds common ground and calls for a new consciousness and way of living that goes beyond our current cultural norms into something new that can heal our world.

Reuben has worked in Youth and Community Development for over 20 years, and this foundation has led to his current focus in Wilderness/Mountain Guiding and Rites of Passage, where he works as a Freelance Guide and Facilitator across various regions of South Africa depending on the project and partner organization's needs.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reuben-reubicon-piet-216493149/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/JE3jrz3YCfs?si=LZ7Gk1mrgDw7TvPj

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Episode 126 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Life, Passion and Legacy of Tom Brown, Jr.

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I don't think it's a stretch to say that Tom Brown Jr leaves quite a 'wake' in his passing. He's taught thousands of students, both through his books and Tracker School, and he's been a 'force of nature' in these past five decades. He's been a mentor, a guide, a father figure to many whose fathers were absent, and he won't ever fully know the depth of his presence or impact had on those who leaned in to his teaching.

He was complicated, and a little wild. Untamed, I guess I'd call it. Kinda like the ocean, where you never turn your back on him if you could help it! Not dangerous, but man, that piercing gaze that was like X-ray vision, peering into your soul.

It didn't happen often, but when he'd mention something he'd seen in my tracks, about my life or work, it would always be spot on. Every time.

I took a lot of classes back in the 80's and 90's, and was an assistant instructor on many classes too, and he always had something new to teach, that I had never heard or seen before, so I knew he was just scratching the surface of his skills and abilities, even in the 'advanced classes'.

He didn't tolerate mind games, or time wasters or fools, and I learned a lot about boundaries, and inner strength and conviction from observing his teaching style over the years. On the flip side, he was funny. REALLY FUNNY, and he had that type of humor that was 'old school' but also not aimed at putting someone down in a mean, or harsh way. When there were students who were more serious or sensitive, his gentle side would come out as well. It was always a joy to see.

This episode is about the impact he had on my life. I trust he's tracking in the canyons of the Other Side, following Grandfather or one of his older instructors through the sage. Journey well and good medicine to you, my friend.

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Episode 125 - The Power of Wild Medicinal Plants with Liz Neves

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0000

When I first started learning wilderness skills and discovering wild foods, my mentors taught and also modeled a deep sense of gratitude to these living beings that we used every day. I didn't know how to do it the 'right way', but I made every attempt to show my appreciation, b0th out loud and in my head. What I wasn't prepared for was the feeling that I had from THEM, which was both intuitive and at other times, clear and concise with detailed information that held up!

There is no question that all wild foods leaders, herbalists and foragers are essential Forest Educators who hold a powerful role in our circle, so it was really meaningful to have this conversation with author and educator Liz Neves. Her wild plant walks in Brooklyn and other parts of the NYC area have been a wonderful learning opportunity for urban dwellers looking for more nature. We explored her work, her book Northeast Medicinal Plants and some of our favorite plants, too!

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Website: GatheringGround.NYC

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Episode 124 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Leaning In To Your Bioregion

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If you want to add depth and meaning to your relationship to the natural world, a little research, study and discovery of our natural history, geography, cultural history and flora & fauna that surrounds us! It's all about understanding different unique aspects of our small corner of the world, and how it's special, just like our students and ourselves.

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Episode 123 - The Discovery Process at the Walden Project with Andy Webster

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If you could learn or study anything, what would you choose? If you had ample time, space and a little support, could you learn and grow as a person? Can you develop your own style of creativity, or relationship to the discovery process?

These are the questions that the Walden Project explores, with a small group of teens who take a school year away from 'regular' school, get college credit, get out in nature and have a unique educational experience.

As a lead educator and program designer, Andy Webster is fully immersed in this wonderful process that is at times chaotic, at times very inspiring and always innovative. He shares his unique perspective on what happens to students when they are not forced to learn neatly boxed 'learning bits' throughout the day, and how this can help shape and inform their lives.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewaldenprojectny/

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Website: https://rmsc.org/cumming-nature-center/the-walden-project/

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Episode 122 - Forest Educator Spotlight: When Things Go Sideways

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If you haven't been in a situation where something happens that is unexpected, then congratulations! You probably have an amazing overworked program director who is really NAILING IT as far as logistics, details, staff training, student screening and daily monitoring of everything in your program! Enjoy it while it lasts. Live the dream!

If, on the other hand, you know what it's like when things go sideways, or headfirst into the ditch, metaphorically speaking, then this episode is for you!

There are a lot of moving parts, details, logistics, planning, equipment, staffing and so much more in pretty much every nature program, and because we work in 'human development', it's very difficult to get it all right, all of the time.

In this episode, we will break down the four main categories of 'issues' that can happen, and how to keep them from derailing your program, camp or adventure even when things don't go as planned.

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Episode 121 - Adventures in Ethnobotany with Zak Baker

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

To many (most?) people in our current culture, nature is a literal 'wall of green' that contains plants, trees, vines, bushes and shrubs, all interwoven in a way that is virtually indistinguishable from each other. It can seem impenetrable, and overwhelming, even, to begin to make sense of it.

If you are thinking of actually eating some of these wild foods, or using them medicinally, the stress factor can jump into the red zone almost instantly.

My guest this episode has spent years around wild plants, trees and shrubs, learning and sampling both the medicinal and edible varieties and also exploring their 'survival' uses as well. Zak Baker has lived in the Midwest and in the Western states, and he's spent an amazing amount of time unraveling how these important resources were part of the very cultural identity and connection to the native peoples who used them daily.

We talk about his early years in Ohio, and his professional adventures and his wonderful Bushlore Press, too. We dig into his pocket field guides and bush cards, how he created them to be a resource for anyone wanting to learn on the trail and into the wild.

Bushlore Press LLC Website: BushlorePress.com

In the Old Way Website: InTheOldWay.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bushlorepress/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bushlorepress

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zak-baker-59a05745/

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Episode 120 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Power of Slowing Down

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I'm pretty sure we could all benefit from reducing the frenetic pace that seems to go hand in hand with our modern culture. It's a great topic, but it's not what I'm describing in this episode! Instead, I've spent most of my time on two of the most important tools in my 'nature awareness' toolkit that I know. They are based in mindfulness practices that have helped me immensely in multiple ways in my life, and in my nature education programs and trainings.

They focus on very subtle body awareness techniques that can be used to enhance our energy, focus, inner 'alignment' and decision making. They slow down time, and give us choices when we are under pressure. They also help us access some very powerful states of awareness that have saved me in more than a few situations both in the woods and in our modern cultural settings.

These two practices are called 'breath to heart' and 'quarter-time', which I learned over years of study with Tom Brown, Jr in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. I don't know of the exact origins of each, but they were part of a concerted effort by Tom and his instructors to give us layers of exercises that have delivered powerful outcomes when I have needed them most.

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Episode 119 - The Value of Soft Skills and Deep Land Connection in the Canadian Shield with Chris Gilmour

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Life in the Great White North can be cold and hard at times, but that makes the warmer seasons all the sweeter, from Maple Syrup Season to Sumac Gathering and so much more. The power of nature is reflected in daily life, and living close helps us see the metaphors and parallels that we echo in our own human cultural patterns.

Join Chris Gilmour and I as we explore forest educator training, youth adventure, stories of beaver ponds and much more in this episode. Chris shares powerful lessons that draw from over twenty years as an outdoor professional, leading groups, apprenticeships and foraging programs, with his experience in wilderness survival, bushcraft, nature awareness and earth living skills too.

It was really interesting to hear his perspective on the value of the 'Soft Skills' that are often misunderstood or underutilized in many traditional wilderness programs, and how they are shaping his training and students in powerful, beneficial ways.

-------

Connect with Chris:

Website: https://www.chrisoutdoors.ca/

Wild Muskoka Botanicals Website: https://wildmuskoka.com/

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Episode 118 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Survival Trek, 1986

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It was early August, in Harlemville New York. It was a six week immersion into the natural world, in one of my first 'wilderness skills learning intensives', with just a few tools, a blanket and a desire to see the world from a different perspective.

This episode is a recounting of some of my adventures with wildlife, and why I still can't stand roasted apples.

Thank you to the listeners who have been asking for more stories. These are for you!

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Episode 117 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Value of Goals, Metrics and Evaluating Your Outcomes

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:39:00 -0000

In the olden days, before the internet, when you ran a workshop or a skills class or wild foods program, you could usually skip the student evaluation forms and questionnaires. Participants just 'got the experience' and that was the deal. There wasn't any trolling, or review bombing, because there were no online reviews. You might get a letter, if people felt a certain way about your offering, but often times it was something positive rather than negative.

In 2024, however, outcomes and evaluations matter. We have a lot more opportunities to connect with our students, and understand the class from their perspective, and it's a whole new world.

Quite frankly, it's a much better world.

The simple truth is this: The more we ask, the more we know, and the faster we can get better at what we do.

This episode is a quick dive into understanding the importance of understanding our metrics, gathering data, self evaluations vs outside assessment, setting our own goals and best of all, how they can help make us better educators.

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Episode 116 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Navigating the Inner Barriers of Visionary Work

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's one thing to have a 'vision' or idea that is inspiring and exciting and full of hope and promise. It's also a WHOLE other thing to actually bring it into the real world, grounded and fully expressed and achieving outcomes.

When we take that leap into the unknown, it's scary, risky, stressful and even wonderful; a lot of intense emotions all rolled into a kaleidoscope blender that most of the time, we are not fully prepared to handle.

Sometimes, we even have unexpected 'inner barriers' that show up, with hesitation, procrastination, tangible fear in sharing something from the heart, rejection sensitivity and anxiety. These inner challenges are no joke, and they can stop our visionary work in its tracks if we don't figure out how to navigate and work around them.

In this episode, we explore these issues and more, with an emphasis on solutions and strategies that can help us keep going.

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Episode 115 - The Visionary Work of with Monica Eastway, Eco-Geriontologist

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There are literally piles of research about the benefits of contact with nature for human beings, and most of the time, we think of 'forest experiences' primarily for children. Monica Eastway shares her work with people who are in their 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's, and why nature is vital for this segment of our community. She shares stories of how nature experiences improve the quality of life for those in managed or skilled care facilities, and her quest to facilitate change

as a true paradigm shift for ALL of us.

We discuss some of the work that's being done in the Netherlands, Finland and Esalen, CA, and the impact that nature can have for families and people of all ages. Her vision includes helping our American fear of 'growing old' and seeing the aging process with grace, self acceptance and even joy.

Monica's website: https://www.monicaeastway.com/

Monica's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-eastway/

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Episode 114 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Harnessing the Nature of Time

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Ever since I was a kid I was always fascinated by the concept of 'time'.

I know I am not alone, because it's a pretty popular theme over the last four decades or so. Madeline L'Engle's Wrinkle In Time was one of my first steps into a different world. The time differences in the world of Narnia was pretty interesting! Then came the wildly unexpected Time Bandits and the fun of Back to the Future. The Time Lords and Dr. Who. The resetting of time in Edge of Tomorrow high stakes battle for Earth. Hot Tub Time Machine. The compression of time in Interstellar and Inception. HG Wells' The Time Machine. Groundhog Day. The Time Heists of Avengers: Endgame and the TVA of Marvel's Loki were some of the more recent forays, but there are literally tons of shows like Quantum Leap, or Travellers, or The Umbrella Academy and yes, Outlander....

I'd like to believe that time travel is possible but it's probably not, at least, not in the way that these shows seem to depict it. However, there are some situations and experiences that I have had in my forays into nature and leading groups that have broadened my understanding of time and its paradoxes and oddities and gifts, so, I figured we better talk about it!

No hot tubs required!

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Episode 113 - Change, Adaptation and Evolution- How Alderleaf Wilderness College is Responding to the Pandemic and Cultural Shifts with Jason Knight

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If there is a defining moment for nature education in the past five years, it always seems to be found during the Covid Pandemic. It was in this time that we see major shifts in the way we work, teach, learn and grow, as it accentuated the many changes that children, youth, families and adults were already showing prior to the coronavirus, and virtually all nature programs felt the effects.

In this episode, Jason Knight of Alderleaf shares how his organization responded to these forces, and how his program and community has pulled together to find ways to thrive in an ever-evolving world. He launched some online programs, and even wrote a great book called 'The Essential Skills of Wilderness Survival', while also running lots of local programs and raising a family.

Sometimes, we are all forced to 'embrace' change, whether we like it or not, but Jason's gifts have allowed him to take it to the next level. It's a great conversation that can benefit anyone running nature programs, and gives us a little 'behind the scenes' feeling at times as we explore many relevant topics along the way.

Website: WildernessCollege.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alderleafwildernesscollege

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Episode 112 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Preparing our Children for Climate Change

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:56:00 -0000

There is one thing that is certain in our world, whether or not we 'believe' in climate change, and that is that our lives and the lives of our young students, is going to change. A lot.

Being adaptable, fluid, responsive and creative are key necessary ingredients to have if we want to be able to handle change in a positive way. Most people struggle with even minor changes in their lives, especially when we have no control over what is happening. It can be debilitating and anxiety producing and managing that kind of response is difficult for everyone.

This is where nature education can be literally life saving for our students.

By giving them skills that help them manage their mental and emotional health, we are giving them an advantage over those who struggle to 'hold it all together'. Giving them problem solving skills, communication skills, awareness and gratitude, we lay a foundation that they can build a life from, even in a world that our own grandparents might not recognize.

The importance of nature educators in this context is vital to the long term survival of our species and I believe it will have a powerful impact for those students and parents who understand the stakes and are willing to invest in their child's welfare in both the short term and 'down the road' thinking.

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Episode 111 - The Origins of Nick Hulley, Social Forester

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 18:06:00 -0000

I've always been able to quickly tell the difference between someone with years of actual hands on experience in bushcraft, nature skills or crafts, from those with just a little. It's seen mostly in the way that skills are presented, or how the preparation is put in, or in the choice of words in a social media post or photo description. When four or five tiny things begin to add up, I start paying attention, and then it becomes obvious. When I first began seeing Nick Hulley's LinkedIn posts, I saw this phenomenon in spades.

In this episode, Nick shares the width and breadth of a life lived hand in hand with nature, through teaching, living, practicing and working day in and day out. He's used natural elements in conservation and forestry, and considers himself a 'Social Forester', which is a term I had never heard before. He also shares a wealth of experience in witnessing the origins of the current Forest School model as it evolved and grew in the United Kingdom, and how the current iteration of today's thousands of educators and schools are making an impact, one child at a time.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-hulley-91854b1/

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Episode 110 - Forest Education Spotlight: What's in a Name? The Challenge of Choosing Program Names

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Some Forest Educators seem to create amazing program and organization names effortlessly, with titles that evoke strong feelings, qualities and almost magnetic pull that draws in people excited to participate.

Some of us have to work REALLY HARD to get names that are 'fair' or serviceable, after a long process and hours of crystal ball gazing.

The fact is, finding a great name is both an art AND hard work, and it's something that takes a bit of intuition, luck and even a group of friends working a process to make it a little easier.

This episode dives into several factors that come into play as we explore organization or individual program names, and outlines a process I've used for years that helps make it a little easier for those of us who aren't marketing or communications professionals!

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Episode 109 - Community Supported Nature Programs with Jen Smith, MS

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 17:58:00 -0000

In a small town in Texas near Fort Worth, there is a program that seems to do everything. On the surface, they seem like a typical summer camp, but they do so many other special things that serve the local community: Bereavement camps. Project Wild education. Fishing & Angler Education. Private Retreats for Adults. Off Season School Groups. Wilderness Survival or Science Themed Summer Camps (day and overnight). Alumni Programs. (This list goes on and on.)

Jen Smith is the Vice President of Outdoor Connections at Camp El Tesoro-Camp Fire First Texas, and she and her staff continue an over 90 year legacy of serving their community with outstanding nature based programming. She and her team work incredibly hard to craft experiences that are relevant to today's youth, adults and families in a variety of capacities, which is needed now more than ever.

Camp El Tesoro is a great example of an organization that is committed to being willing to grow and change while still keeping the traditions and experiences that are time tested and transformational.

Professionals like Jen don't seek the limelight, and spend the bulk of their days in the hot Texas sun, doing the work without fanfare, and making a difference, all with the enthusiasm and passion of a first year CIT.

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithjen/

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Episode 108 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Portals Into the Unknown

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When it comes to nature awareness and personal awareness, I've found it useful to see and perceive it in a few different ways. Sometimes I see it in a mythological or 'rite of passage' perspective, and other times, I see it more from an 'awareness and perception' perspective.

In this episode, I share some of the stages of awareness my campers, or students or staff have gone through in their journey into the world of nature, and how we all balance our lives in the Known and Unknown worlds, and sometimes even into the 'Unknowable' realms for which there is almost no descriptions.

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Episode 107 - Understanding the Challenges of the Developing Child's Brain, Part Two - with Wendolyn Bird

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When we remove all of the 'non-teaching stuff' that surrounds our profession, we educators are left with an opportunity- to connect with the 'still maturing' mind of our young students. We can have all the trappings and bells and whistles and laptops or digital projectors or classroom props and decorations, but if we don't have the ability to make a real, personal, one on one connection to these human beings, we won't really have a positive, lasting impact. Wendolyn Bird shares from her decades of experience working with very young children, parents and also other educators, and we dive into what it takes to deeply engage and 'lead' an early childhood program in a way that is soothing, stimulating and energizing.

Wendolyn discusses ways to connect with children that meet them in ways that help them grow, which is crucial to achieving the goals we have as educators or parents. Listening to her stories makes me wish she had been MY preschool teacher, too, because she is both wise AND fun. The bonds we make with emotionally safe adults is incredibly important and soothing to us as children. Learning these skills is a profound game changer for us as educators and for our students, which is sorely needed in today's rapidly changing world.

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Website: https://wendolynbird.com/

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Episode 106 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Are Nature Educators 'Healers'?

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

There is no question that being in nature is 'healing' in both a practical and therapeutic sense, because this has been demonstrated in an impressive list of nature focused studies by researchers in several different countries from reputable academic institutions.

In this episode we dive into the different 'layers' of healing, from several different perspectives, and discuss how nature education can have significant positive impacts on both adults and children. There are a lot of different ways that people experience healing, on the physical level, emotional and mental health levels and when they appear in our programs, it can be difficult to know what to do if we are unprepared or unaware.

My own journey and experiences with healing, both traditional, modern or alternative have helped me to understand some basic principles that have helped both me and my staff throughout the years. Our world and humanity needs all of the healing we can get, on all levels, and this topic is one that can offer some hope for us all.

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Episode 105 - Understanding the Challenges of the Developing Child's Brain, Part One - with Wendolyn Bird

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:58:00 -0000

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Website: https://wendolynbird.com/

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Episode 104 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Alchemy of Food

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There are so many powerful learning elements that are part of the expansive topic of 'Food', it's hard to know where to start. When it comes to nature based learning, campfire cooking and 'hearthcraft', we can start with campfire circle design, hardwood vs softwood firewood, cooking utensils and the like. Or we can just jump right into the cooking, and get our flavor receptors firing with more traditional methods and means. We can even go full foraging style, to include gathered berries, teas or nuts, with plant identification, storage and preparation experiences too.

I've seen the transformation that happens when someone tastes black birch tea sweetened with maple syrup for the first time, or bites into an acorn pancake slathered with chokecherry syrup. Clay baked butternut squash stuffed with nuts, dried fruit, and lots of savory spices will make even the most reluctant vegetable eater suddenly become willing to try a slice!

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Episode 103 - Expanding Your Visibility and Clear Messaging for Forest Educators with April Zajko, M.Ed.

Thu, 30 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode explores the powerful role that communication and visibility skills play in the overall long term success of our nature programs. It's not a reach to say that they are absolutely essential for us to master, and they are also the skills that we probably are the most reluctant to practice. Nature Educator April Zajko M.Ed. and I dive into these concepts and we share stories about our own journey as visionary business leaders and how we learned important lessons the hard way over the past few decades.

Social media, written newsletters and blogs, video content and public speaking all form a 'communications ecosystem' that gives us all many ways to connect to our potential students, each with their advantages and disadvantages. We discuss some of the many ways to achieve our goals if we are willing to let go of our fear, have a curious mind, are willing to learn from failure and persevere!

Visibility & Advocacy Workshop Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-power-of-visibility-advocacy-for-nature-based-educators-registration-878507909807?aff=April&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2WxncUdJe5adelA1Y5YArBCfj_-B9ecyT725l8Bd5qIMI5SZfzAPQIP4A_aem_AYvfUzHx6HXHfWbOAhqTCuNKE99ZM2q65r9VHNNIU9TPJP0Yk0iXH7YupIUvcunxcIt1f1hdntgGFFMns0m_lcnf

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Nature Inspired Teacher Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1843474542616408

Website/Courses: https://aprilsteachingtree.mykajabi.com/links

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Episode 102 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Weight of Ecological Loss and Grief

Mon, 27 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The problem with 'awareness' is that it is 'on' even when we would prefer it wasn't. Once we open that capacity, it helps us see the world in new ways-both the beautiful and the painful.

In addition to noticing the incredible birdsong or wildflowers, we also see the trash littered across the landscape, or the ragged destruction caused by wanton development. We know the joy of our personal refuges, and the agony at seeing them defiled by those who don't understand or know what makes them unique.

It's a weight that we all carry, and one that our students will also, eventually. In this episode, we explore this phenomenon and consider ways that can support us all.

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Episode 101 - Botany in a Day and Nature for a Lifetime- with Tom Elpel

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I have a penchant for the term 'Unsung Hero', because I believe it's an accurate assessment of so many of us 'nature educators' who plug away at their work, day in and day out, rarely getting accolades or even credit for their contributions to the field. I'm going to use it again here with this episode's guest, because he's earned it many times over through the decades of his innovation, free thinking and constant effort.

Tom Elpel has authored many books and written countless articles for wilderness publications and primitive skills journals, including one of his most renowned book "Botany in a Day", Tom has inspired me and many others to live simply, with minimal lasting impact on the earth, and he's modeled these principles for decades in his home region of Montana.

In our conversation, we talk about his recent canoe trip using a dugout canoe down the Missouri River, and hear about his adventures along the way. We talk about our work, and what it's like to teach and practice nature principles as part of a growing nature movement filled with wonderful young people.

Website: https://www.greenuniversity.com/

Classes & Courses: https://www.elpel.info/Programs_and_Classes.htm

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/thomasjelpel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thomas.J.Elpel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomasjelpel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjelpel/

Botany in a Day Book: https://www.hopspress.com/Books/Botany_in_a_Day.htm

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https://www.elpel.info/

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Episode 100 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Lessons and Insights from the First 100 Episodes

Mon, 20 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

After doing fifty interviews with incredible educators and also fifty solo 'spotlight' episodes, I thought it was worth a moment to share some of my biggest 'aha' moments, surprising discoveries and also where this podcast might be going in Year Two. Doing two episodes a week has been an honor and a privilege, and also exhausting at times, too! I am not sure how I managed it, some months, but I'm very glad I did!

The field of nature education is growing exponentially, and there are a lot of important elements to discuss as we move forward to help children and adults find their way in this constantly changing world. Our grandchildren are counting on us to get things right, and this is a path with honor and purpose.

Special thanks to everyone who is listening. You are all keeping me going, and I appreciate you all!

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Episode 99 - The First Forest School in Ecuador, South America with Carol Sanchez

Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's never easy to be 'the first' in a pioneering effort. There is always a constant push to communicate the value, and the need, and the positive outcomes to people who may not even know they are missing out on something amazing and important.

Each generation that follows has it a little easier, because they are arriving and standing on the foundations that the first pioneer laid, for the benefit of future generations of students and educators.

For the past four years, Carol Sanchez has established the Rizoma Communidad Educativa, which is a Forest School based in Quita, Ecuador. Her emphasis on the importance of family involvement, students with special needs and abilities form the basis of our conversation, which was helped greatly with her son as translator.

It was a joy and an honor to hear her story, and share her vision, and it's one that I believe will stay in our hearts and minds for a long time!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Rizoma-Comunidad-Educativa-100064045991860/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2m6nEsSWXtlVV0gsgILaPw

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Episode 98 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Desert Solitaire

Mon, 13 May 2024 08:29:00 -0000

I've always been drawn to areas that are desolate, open and devoid of human presence, and this episode explores the power of our desert landscapes through my own stories and experiences. Deserts are far more than sand and cactus, and most people speed through them as fast as humanly possible. There are gifts to be found if we learn how to approach these unique places in ways that change us inside forever.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jeff-Share/2541535/?paipv=0&eav=AfZblN6YfbbzSwUMoaI2l1fTUKwwcb74tBvvvDTh0nRdFfjsadkgaO_7tRXyFSU_dY4&_rdr

Episode 97 - Climate Change, Media Literacy and Critical Thinking with Jeff Share

Thu, 09 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Sometimes, nature education can be 'up close and personal', like a walk in the woods, or picking raspberries. Sometimes, it's more about paradigm shifts, technology strategies and learning to avoid being manipulated by intellectually dishonest players in our current systems.

In this conversation with author and educator Jeff Share, we talk about some of the fundamental problems around climate change and effective messaging, shifting narratives, and educational leadership that begins in middle and high school with positive success. Jeff's research and practice focuses on transformative education, preparing K-12 educators to teach critical media literacy for social and environmental justice. The second edition of his book, "Media Literacy is Elementary: Teaching Youth to Critically Read and Create Media" was published in 2015.

Two years later, he co-authored with Richard Beach and Allen Webb, "Teaching Climate Change to Adolescents: Reading, Writing, and Making a Difference." Collaborating with Douglas Kellner (2019) they published, "The Critical Media Literacy Guide: Engaging Media and Transforming Education."

Jeff is a Fulbright Specialist and English Language Specialist for the US State Department who has taught critical media literacy and Environmental Justice in India, Argentina, Mexico, China, and Germany.

As the climate crisis continues to unfold in various ways around our world, it is apparent that our children will need MANY skills and tools to assist them in their solutions and work, and I believe there is a tremendous value for all nature educators to network with professionals like Jeff, so we can broaden our scope and be inclusive to the wealth of knowledge that is available.

Connect with Jeff:

Website: https://jshare.wixsite.com/jeffshare

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/critml?lang=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-share-71155a9/

Book: For the Love of Nature: Eco-writing the world https://www.amazon.com/Love-Nature-Ecowriting-World-Counterpoints/dp/1433199793/ref=sr_1_1?crid=DL7O623UE7RZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fj0BC9NSY2zQkkvaGMWineGENPai9iHpclw5WnxJM1zjkcS-oTCW2Cp4CB8zot3iAeG2zB6Na3XlNwlkMafOoNJ1jh5zMCAsce47nA6im2-Pq_scKBSkVuM7UF8oWRCqq_IoQjBloMlZvJycs2AYalJJfLftAmkr7sPeJRGaGIBV8cEmJ1NbR6uKQIUQqDXNcrP_KVQh5PLksEOMf2E290H5DvpM9drZYdmlwYxaK9M.MM7jiBvXQTY2n12hsBGzuIwZXFzEy75OkDsnd3Yk9Lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=Jeff+Share&qid=1715233235&sprefix=jeff+share%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1

Book: The Critical Media Literacy Guide https://www.amazon.com/Critical-Literacy-Guides-Scholarship-Education/dp/900440452X/ref=sr_1_2?crid=DL7O623UE7RZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fj0BC9NSY2zQkkvaGMWineGENPai9iHpclw5WnxJM1zjkcS-oTCW2Cp4CB8zot3iAeG2zB6Na3XlNwlkMafOoNJ1jh5zMCAsce47nA6im2-Pq_scKBSkVuM7UF8oWRCqq_IoQjBloMlZvJycs2AYalJJfLftAmkr7sPeJRGaGIBV8cEmJ1NbR6uKQIUQqDXNcrP_KVQh5PLksEOMf2E290H5DvpM9drZYdmlwYxaK9M.MM7jiBvXQTY2n12hsBGzuIwZXFzEy75OkDsnd3Yk9Lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=Jeff+Share&qid=1715233318&sprefix=jeff+share%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-2

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Episode 96 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Working with Students with Special Needs

Mon, 06 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 1 out of 5 U.S. children ages 3-17 has a mental, emotional, behavioral or developmental disorder.

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents, affecting nearly 1 in 12 children and 1 in 4 adolescents.

This means that it's almost a certainty that if you are working with children, teens or adults, you're getting a fair number of children or teens in your programs who are struggling with a myriad of issues. I know that this isn't exactly groundbreaking news, especially if you've been in the trenches in the past few years.

This episode dives into the different ways that working with special needs children can affect us as nature educators, in both positive and negative ways. We get into different ways to help screen for behavior or sensory issues in ways that will help us get the right kind of students who are appropriate for our work, Understanding special needs students, their parents and their impact on our work is critical to our long-term success.

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https://peterkindfieldphd.substack.com

Episode 95 - The Secrets of Organic Chemistry in Forest Education with Peter Kindfield

Thu, 02 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

I am pretty sure I would have enjoyed my high school chemistry classes more if they had been taught by my guest Peter Kindfield, who shares his methodology and approach in outdoor learning. His experiences demonstrate again how important our work is, for all of us in this field, and to discuss these topics, because I believe we are piloting the future models of early childhood, elementary and middle school education.

It's a natural 'next step' to give ourselves opportunities to go deeper into our observations of nature and team building, communication and the scientific method. We are seeing mythology and creative writing/language arts being shared in ways that get substantial outcomes, and we know that the power of social and emotional learning can be greatly enhanced through a focus on learning outside.

In this episode, we cover a lot of ground that hasn't really been explored in most 'nature education' circles, and it's always fun to hear the thoughts of a person who continues to work on the front lines.

Connect with Peter:

https://hilltopeducation.com/

https://www.deepadaptation.info/

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Episode 94 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Getting Our Students 'On the Bus' with Ricardo Sierra

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

One of the very first challenges educators have today is finding a way to connect with students, and then inspiring them to engage with the activities and experiences offered because THEY want to, not because they HAVE to.

Without that key ingredient, we can't really go anywhere. Full stop.

If you have experienced difficulty with this, you will know exactly what a problem it is, and how excruciating it is to be in it, for everyone involved.

Sometimes, we get lucky and don't have this kind of issue in our educational journey, with supportive, excited children and attractive games that get the job done. It can be a big shock when we show up and it DOESN'T go as planned.

With student anxiety, classroom disruption and class attention spans bordering on milliseconds, it's a given that we need a variety of approaches that can give us options when we start getting resistance or blank stares.

In this episode, we take a comprehensive look at one of my favorite tools in this process, and discover some of the ways we can get better immediately, to the benefit of all.

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https://www.forestschoolsupport.com

Episode 93 - Finding Support for Forest School Leaders with Asa Hardy-Brownlie

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Many Forest School Leaders begin their educational nature journey in the fields of Bushcraft, and ancestral skills. Some come from a background in public education, while others get their start in Special Education. Others still come from an occupational therapy or mental health background. All seem to respond to the needs of children, and a desire to help them grow and thrive.

Most of us don't really want to 'start a business' with all that it entails, but we usually don't have a choice. Someone has to do it, and figure it out, and find ways to keep it going, and it's a task that's not unlike an 'act of power' to pull off consistently.

My conversation with Asa Hardy-Brownlie explores his origins in Bushcrafting, as well as working with Special Education students and then finding the joys and challenges of Forest Schooling. We dive into the importance of strong boundaries, continuing adaptation needs for Forest School Trainers and a host of other topics relevant to anyone who works with youth in nature. Mental health, digital marketing, effective communication, dealing with negative feedback and ongoing assessment--- we cover a lot of ground! Our discussion touches on a lot of important issues that nature educators deal with every day.

Connect with Asa:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/forestschoolas

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Episode 92 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Shining Daylight into the Grey Areas and Unwritten Contracts

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In every program, just like in life, there are things that are clearly defined, established and understood, and then there are the 'grey areas'. These are places where expectations can grow, issues can be unmet and problems can hang out, in the twilight gloom of our nature school or forest kindergarten.

Left unchecked, these grey areas can create enough friction and frustration that it can sometimes tear apart our programs or our communities, and have tremendous negative impact for all involved.

Unwritten Contracts work in a similar fashion, usually created unconsciously by wonderful, well intentioned staff, students, parents or organization leaders, and can be upset when their internally made 'agreement' is unfulfilled by our program, workshop, retreat or camp.

In this episode, we will turn on our headlamps, get a few solar string lights and maybe a few construction work lights to help us see what might be going on, how we might unconsciously be contributing to the problems and figure out some ways to fix them!

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https://billpfeiffer.org/

Episode 91 - The Last Person Around the Campfire - with Sky Otter

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's not uncommon at the end of a meaningful nature program to see one person who is still sitting at the campfire, reluctant to leave. The impact to our participant's lives can be significant, and it's difficult for some to return to their everyday lives, which can be lonely or filled with unsatisfying relationships.

Nature work often intersects with community building, personal growth, health and even healing mental and emotional trauma, which, for Forest Educators, means we usually end up wearing many hats. My conversation with today's guest, Sky Otter, dives into this important topic, and we discuss holding space, program boundaries, working with young or inexperienced staff, emotional first aid and more.

Sky Otter formerly known as Bill Pfeiffer is the founder of Sacred Earth Network (SEN) which implemented leading edge visions for over 25 years. In that time, Sky made Russia a second home having traveled there 44 times assisting the environmental and indigenous movements through SEN. This has given him a rare cross-cultural perspective. He has also led hundreds of spiritual ecology workshops, including men’s and breath work. He has 25 years of experience in Re-evaluation Counseling and Vipassana meditation, and has undergone extensive training with Siberian shamans. Sky has partnered with and designed experiential workshops with Joanna Macy, John Perkins, Llyn Roberts, Cathy Pedevillano, and John Seed. He has also spent much time in the US Southwest learning about Native medicine ways and the crucial importance of the petroglyphs and pictographs. His book, Wild Earth, Wild Soul: A Manual for an Ecstatic Culture has been met with high acclaim.

Connect with Sky Otter:

https://www.sacredearthnetwork.org/

Wild Earth, Wild Soul: A Manual for an Ecstatic Culture:

https://amzn.to/4bhMj7R

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Episode 90 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Staff Training for Nature Programs

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The field of nature education is incredibly diverse, and this can make designing good staff training programs difficult, especially for new program directors or leaders.

What are some of the problems that come up when we try to deliver and download a lot of information to people in a short period of time? How do we emphasize important topics and make them 'sticky' so they will be clear if needed? How do we evaluate our current staff training and know if they are working well, or could use improvement?

This episode dives into the deep end with this subject, because consistency in our forest programs, no matter who we serve and in what setting, is one of the key elements of establishing our work in a professional manner. It keeps us safe, our participants safe and helps us feel confident knowing that our staff can handle the daily issues that pop up on any given day out in the field.

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Episode 89 - Teacher, Mentor, Author, Advocate: The Natural Evolution of Amy Butler

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

One of the goals of this podcast is to shine some light on the accomplishments and hard work of amazing naturalists and educators like Amy Butler. Her tireless work in the northern heart of Vermont has led to nature based programs for youth, wonderful staff training, public school partnerships and a thriving North Branch Nature Center.

In our conversation, Amy shares details about her book 'Educating Children Outdoors', which is a guide for teachers and educators to achieve outstanding results for students of all ages. She shares stories from her early adventures in earth skills, tracking and nature studies, and her work as a teacher in various roles and educational settings.

We dive into a number of issues that seem to come up for all nature educators when they begin to partner with public schools, and Amy shares her successes from her extensive experience. It is always inspiring and insightful to talk to someone who has been walking the talk for decades, and to hear about her new book.

Amy's Book Educating Children Outdoors: https://www.cornellpress.cornell.edu/book/9781501771903/educating-children-outdoors/#bookTabs=1

Website: https://amybutlervermont.com/

Instagram: @amycoyotevt

@topshackliftie

X (twitter): @amycoyote

Affiliated Organization: northbranchnaturecenter.org

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Episode 88 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Rites of Passage Part Three with Ricardo Sierra

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode I share how I began adding 'rites of passage' elements into my summer camps, class trips and skills programs & activities, with an emphasis on the practical nuts and bolts aspects to these topics. I also share how I got started in leading 'Coming of Age' programs for boys entering young adulthood, and how it evolved to working with parents as well.

There is a noticeable shift in my own students and staff that occurs when I hold a space for this kind of awareness, and I have used guided imagery, crafting a 'skills code' and other means to help build the inner foundations of these individuals. It is a powerful understanding that changes lives in meaningful ways, and I'm excited to share these tools with everyone.

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Episode 87 - Student Driven Assessment in Inner City Nature Education with Chantel Zimmerman

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When you think of a 'nature school', most of us don't think of Newark, New Jersey. It's incredibly urban, and set in a world that is almost completely dominated by human engineering. To make a nature program work, it helps to start small, and to throw away the idea of 'what a nature school should look like'.

This concrete jungle is where Chantel Zimmerman began her education journey. She eventually left the public sector to create a successful nature program called The Sensory Garden, where she demonstrates the power of nature based learning every day.

Her passion and excitement around the benefits and outcomes that nature can provide fuels her advocacy and she shares programs for urban schools to involve student assessments and inquiry based models that can be transitional stages for public education.

We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, and I loved hearing about her ideas and strategies that can benefit youth and educators everywhere.

Website: https://www.sensorygardenandplay.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensory_garden_and_play/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chantel.hernandez.395

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Episode 86 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Rites of Passage Part Two

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

We're talking about The Hero's Journey this episode, and how it relates to the work we do as Forest Educators. The Monomyth has a multitude of stages that are easily recognizable when we know what to look for, whether we are working with elementary age students, middle schoolers, high schoolers or adults.

The Hero or Heroine undergo many ordeals, trials and tasks in their journey into the unknown. They encounter beings who might be allies, or become enemies, and discernment comes into play, adding complexity on top of everything else they are learning.

My programs took on depth and transformational elements that had an amazing impact on campers and students, and I believe that learning these elements can help anyone working with youth or adults to expand awareness, understanding and enhance program design.

Joseph Campbell-The Power of Myth : https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Power-of-Myth-Programs-1-6-Audiobook/B002V59WRE?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

The Hero with A Thousand Faces: https://www.animatornotebook.com/learn/the-hero-with-a-thousand-faces

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Episode 85 - Emotional Learning and Behavior Support begins with Educator Consistency- with Meagan Duncan

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There are over 250 PRESCHOOLERS in the US who are either suspended or expelled from their programs EVERY DAY.

No, that's not a typo. Two hundred and fifty preschoolers, every day, in America.

When our children are struggling, they literally can't attend programs that don't provide an environment that supports them. When they are kicked out, it creates tremendous stress for parents and those students, to find new programs that WILL address those needs.

This means that forest schools are going to have a high percentage of students who have difficulty with their emotional regulation and social skills. And this is where my guest Meagan Duncan comes in!

Our discussion ranges from our experiences with snow, the COVID pandemic and its effect on our culture and education, as well as working with early childhood education in 2024. Meagan shares about her experiences working with getting Forest School educators all on the same page in their support and approach to this work, and how it can get positive outcomes for parents as well.

This is by far the deepest dive I've ever done on this topic, and I loved every minute of it! Meagan's work with her 'Connected Kids Thrive' positive behavior coaching was impressive and encouraging. If you work with the so-called 'difficult' kids, this episode is for you!

Website: https://connectedkidsthrive.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meagan.d.duncan

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentchildcommunication

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meagan_connected.kids.thrive/

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Episode 84 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Power of Initiation and Rites of Passage Part One

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There are few things that are more universally shared by humanity than comparative mythology and the 'initiatory experience'. In this episode, we explore the incredible power that Initiations have in our individual and collective psyches, and how we can use this understanding to support our students in their learning and development.

We also explore the 'Rite of Passage' ceremonies and how they served multiple functions in a small village or community for tens of thousands of years. Bringing this understanding and inner longing to our consciousness is a profound and effective tool that nature educators can use to shorten the time in which students are 'settling in' or are feeling anxious, as well as support them in inner growth and leadership development with excellent outcomes.

This is Part One of a Three Part Series.

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Episode 83 - Forest Education & Innovation in a Man-Made World with Jael Nouhet

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

How do you create nature programs in a country where virtually everything is cultivated through commercial agriculture and highly impacted landscapes? My conversation with Jael Nouhet of the Netherlands explores his efforts to plant seeds, trees and plants to create the future forests for children and educators in a few decades!

It takes a tremendous effort to create the kind of consensus building, commitment and investment towards a long term vision of a future with nature-connected children and adults, and Jael shares his journey, and what he's learned along the way. We discuss the many cultural differences, customs and social structure that impacts efforts to get children outside in Greece, Turkey, the Czech Republic, and Russia, and why it's beneficial to understand how these 'barriers' are being circumvented in areas around the globe.

Website: https://natuurpedagoog.nl/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jnouhet

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jael-nouhet-25383825/?originalSubdomain=nl

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaelnouhet/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natuurpedagoog/

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Episode 82 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Finding Your Lane as a Forest Educator

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

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Episode 81 - Forest Learning in the Los Angeles Basin- with Madlen Sarkisyan

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Deep in the concrete jungle of spanish style homes, freeways, urban sprawl and mini-malls, there are naturalists who know the canyons, coastal foothills and estuaries hidden throughout the city.

It's here among the live oaks and agave that children learn about acorns, lizards, animal tracks, and other aspects of California wildlife. I had all kinds of flashbacks to my own childhood throughout this conversation with Madlen Sarkisyan, who co-founded The Children's Forest School based in this diverse area in Southern California.

Our conversation ranges from mountain lions, poison oak, homeschooling, measuring outcomes and moving locations, so we cover a lot of ground. I believe it takes a special kind of person and team to make programs like this happen, and it was a pleasure to connect with Madlen and hear her passion for outdoor learning. Good things are happening in the City of Angels.

Connect with Madlen:

Website: https://www.childrensforestschool.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childrensforestschool/

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Episode 80 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Moving the Needle-Equity, Education & Changing the System

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode is an exploration of some of the critical issues we encounter as nature based educators when we enter the public education system. The road to Forest Education for all seems to point to a relationship with public schooling, and it's been my experience that going in with our eyes wide open is a great strategy. I use several analogies for the massive bureaucracy that makes up the public system, including The Cargo Ship and the Sail Boat, and The Borg from Star Trek, (You too, will be assimilated by The Borg!) and a few others, so hopefully I don't come across as too harsh. You'll have to be the judge and let me know if I crossed any lines!

We have some big challenges ahead, we're underfunded and we're small, but we have an incredible ally called Nature. We have biology and genetics and some ancestral heritage on our side to boot, and we have some learning models that deliver powerful results. I'm not sure exactly how we are going to make this happen, or how long it's going to take, but I'm really excited to see what happens next.

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Episode 79 - The Unbeatable Combination of Occupational Therapy and Forest Education with Marika Austin and Angela Rosenberg

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

You all know I like a good analogy, so I'm going to say that the duo of Marika and Angela reminds me of the heroes of my comic book days, when I was a collector. I'd mow lawns for my neighbors, and then ride my bike six miles into town to buy my week's new issues. One of my favorites was the Marvel Team-Up comic, where two heroes who don't usually 'hero' together do what they do best, and take care of business. Spider-Man and Daredevil. Wolverine and Iron Fist. It was a 'golden age' of comics back then.

Well, seriously, this marriage of occupational therapy and early childhood education in nature is just so SOLID. There are no weaknesses in their game. And Marika and Angela have teamed up despite the long distance between their Bay Area of California and Florida locations.

Our conversation covers WHY the approaches of OT is so effective for young people. We dig into the detailed observations that therapists see in their students, and how it adds a powerful dimension to more traditional 'forest school' reporting.

The medical field adds credibility to our nature-based approaches that opens doors, gets attention and creates opportunities that help all of us doing nature work everywhere. It's a good idea to know about it!

Marika and Angela on Instagram @naturebasedtherapists - https://www.instagram.com/naturebasedtherapists/

Nature Based Therapy Boot Camp Course - https://grounded-to-grow.thinkific.com/courses/nature-based-therapy-boot-camp

Grounded to Grow 2024 Retreat - https://www.groundedtogrow.com/

Bearfoot Website: https://www.bearfootoccupationaltherapy.com/

Bearfoot Instagram @bearfoot_ot - https://www.instagram.com/bearfoot_ot/

Treeline Enrichment Website: https://www.treelineenrichment.com/

Treeline Enrichment Instagram @treelineenrichment - https://www.instagram.com/treelineenrichment/

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Episode 78 - Forest Educator Spotlight - The Beneficial Partnership of Nature and Language Arts with Jonny Walker

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode is a conversation with Jonny Walker, a poetry, creative writing and language arts educator from London/Uk. We explore how 'traditional' or classical education benefits when we incorporate nature based approaches that deliver powerful outcomes for students and schools. He shares about the need for direct experience and full contact with nature for awakening and expanding the outer and inner world of his students, which leads to inspiration, depth and courage, which are all essential for the creative arts.

We discuss how Language Arts educators can become 'Forest Educators' when they take that first step in planning retreats and 'field trips' that can change the course of the lives of their students. We also discuss an upcoming Educator Retreat in April that dives into Poetry, Writing, Expression, Mythology and Nature, where he will share his approach and methods. Jonny shares how important it is for educators to rediscover and ignite our own passion for writing, and how he likes to give educators lots of first-hand experiences so that they understand them from a student's perspective.

Educator Retreat Link: foresteducator.com/mythology-poetry-nature-retreat

Youth Retreat Link: foresteducator.com/bards-and-demigods-youth-retreat

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Episode 77 - Living Your Values, Building Community with Dariya Quenniville and Jefferie Conz

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's one thing to learn wilderness skills, and it's another thing entirely to integrate them into our lives in meaningful ways.

This is the path that Dariya and Jefferie are walking, with the added ingredients of a newborn child and teaching both online and in-person classes!

We talk about their desire, no, their NEED to live in a way that reflects their values, with drinking only spring water, eating locally, and incorporating wild foods and movement into their lives as well. Walking through this modern world while honoring our ancestral heritage is actually really hard, and we talk about the commitment needed to make it work.

Forest Educators like Dariya and Jefferie are connecting with a growing number of adults who are feeling drawn to live closer to nature, and with like-minded individuals, so they also are developing a strong community aspect to their offerings.

The wild magic of the northern forests in Ontario provides the backdrop for our conversation, offering hope for a future where we learn to live more gently on our one green earth.

Website: https://www.findingpolaris.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingpolariswc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingpolariswc

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Episode 76 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Necessity of Adversity

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode could be titled 'The Problem with Getting Comfortable with the Status Quo', because there's a very real disadvantage that happens when we slip into a routine. Organizations do thrive on consistency, and operating within a system that has uniform inputs and outputs, and those who are in charge will resist attempts to change them, for a lot of reasons. One is cost, because training everyone to do things differently is expensive in both time and money. Another is working out who is trusted enough to make the decision to change, and it generally doesn't happen quickly or very often.

This is where nature based programs have an advantage: We're nimble. We are adaptable. We can try a lot of different things with many different types of students.

But at the same time, adversity is not easy. It takes effort and the pressure is debilitating if we aren't ready for it. We need that pressure, to help drive our creativity and our innovation, but harnessing that power takes leaders who can embrace adversity and use it without feeling sorry for ourselves or becoming 'victims', longing for our comfortable routines.

Part rant, part inspiration, and part storytelling, this episode helps us remember that challenge, adversity and 'getting out of the box' aren't just concepts we deliver in our own programs, but also essential to our own work and life!

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https://www.littlepawsoutdoors.com/

Episode 75 - Multicultural Adventures in the Canadian Rainforest with Maria Jose Obando

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

One thing you learn to love in Vancouver, British Columbia is the sound, the feeling and the smell of rain. You also get to enjoy the bald eagles hunting by the river, and the herons, and the towering cedar trees and big leaf maples. For Maria Jose Obando, it wasn't that hard to do.

She's the founder of the Little Paws Outdoor Classroom, and her program operates among the city and metro parks of Vancouver, serving a multicultural community with bilingual forest school activities and experiences. Maria's love of language, community and early childhood education all merged into a program that is making a profound difference for her students and their families.

She shares her journey and her current work integrating autistic students into her groups with the support of therapists and trained educators as well.

It's always a gift to be able to listen to the sincere love and joy that so many nature educators express in these conversations, and to know that despite all of the hard work and effort, they have found joy and deep satisfaction in being outside in the rain.

Connect with Little Paws:

https://www.instagram.com/littlepawsoutdoorclassroom/

https://www.facebook.com/littlepawsoutdoorclassroom

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Episode 74 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Doing Hard Things with Ricardo Sierra

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

All of these help our young people to learn to push through the very real walls of struggle, of effort, of perseverance, and to not shy away from hard work.

It helps them learn about delayed gratification, and find their own 'deep inner drive' that will serve them well in the coming years of continued change.

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https://heidibarr.substack.com/

Episode 73 - Collisions of Earth & Sky: Seeking Truth through Poetry & Nature with Heidi Barr

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The path of a writer and poet is a solo journey. We navigate winding, circling loops of our own stories, sitting in the caves of our memories , reliving the places that changed our understanding, sometimes forever. These offerings to the world expose our inner world, demanding that vulnerability as payment for finding our authentic voice that echoes across the canyon walls.

My guest is Heidi Barr, and she shares her own path from a childhood in South Dakota to far flung places and back to the prairies. Our conversation is enhanced from poems from her new book, Just Wild Enough, (available in April) and her insights as a keen observer of nature and self.

In nature, we find solace, but more than that, we find a place that can open our hearts and show us pathways of intimacy and connection that might be the 'magic' that we are all seeking in this modern world. Heidi Barr is our guide, and she already knows the way.

Bio: Heidi Barr is a writer and wellness coach whose work is founded on a commitment to cultivating ways of being that are life-giving and sustainable for people, communities, and the planet. She is the author of several books of creative nonfiction, including Collisions of Earth and Sky and Woodland Manitou, and co author of 12 Tiny things. She’s also authored two poetry collections, one cookbook, and is editor of “The Mindful Kitchen,” a wellness column in The Wayfarer Magazine. One of the inaugural Poets of Place for the lower St. Croix Valley, her poetry has been featured in numerous publications, including the St. Paul Almanac and South Dakota in Poems. She lives with her family in Lindstrom, where they tend a large vegetable garden, explore nature, and do their best to live simply. Her next book of poetry, Just Wild Enough is due out in April.

Connect with Heidi:

https://heidibarr.com/

https://www.instagram.com/heidicbarr/

https://www.facebook.com/HeidiBarrwriter/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-barr-3884107/

Book Link: Collisions of Earth & Sky https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506482545/Collisions-of-Earth-and-Sky

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Episode 72 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Navigating the For-Profit/Non-Profit Decision

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

There comes a point in most nature education programs' evolution when we have to decide on what 'legal entity' or structure we are going to use to do business in our community. Will we be a Sole Proprietor, in a for-profit model, or maybe a Partnership or LLC? Or do we go in the Nonprofit Organization direction, with all of its complexities and possible advantages?

This episode dives into this topic and explores the advantages to both legal structures, as well as their challenges, too!

Please note that this episode should not be considered legal advice, and is instead a sharing of my own experiences using both models. You should always consult an accountant and legal adviser to help you make the best decision for your unique business, your own skills and expertise and your long range mission and plans!

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Episode 71 - Dynamic, Community Based Bush Kindy in Australia: A MobileForest Schooling Model with Areta Farrance

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

One of the most remarkable qualities I have seen in most 'Forest Educator' leaders I've met through this podcast is their ability and willingness to adapt, change and respond to the needs of the children, families and communities when needed.

Areta Farrance is an incredible leader who is doing this in a big way, and seeing positive outcomes and results. We talk about her work building a community and extended family model of nature education, (commonly known in Australia as 'bush kindy').

Living in communities with an incredible diversity of languages and culture pushed her to create a model that is mobile, to serve several areas of her community. She shares how her communities need nature for mental health, for connection that breaks down cultural barriers and allows this diversity to become an asset to everyone.

Connect with Areta:

Website: www.bushkindyteaching.com.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bushkindyteaching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bush_kindy_teaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/areta-farrance

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Episode 70 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Nature Job Strategies for Employers & Educators

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If you are a Nature Program Director looking for helpers or a Nature Educator looking for work, this episode can help you find the right situation or people for a positive, mutually beneficial experience!

Nature programs, wilderness camps, youth therapy expeditions and forest schools are always looking for great candidates, and there are lots of awesome educators and counselors and leaders looking for their next adventure. So, how do we find the right situation on both sides of this organizational/individual relationship?

We explore strategies for hiring nature-based staff, avoiding the 'Unicorn Trap' and communication tips so Directors and Leaders can find the right staff for their needs. We will also flip to the other side of the equation and talk about ways that Educators, Wilderness Instructors and Nature Counselors can get crystal clear on what kinds of environments will match expectations, avoid energy sucking conflicts and 'read between the lines' to get the whole picture of a prospective program before you commit for the full season.

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Episode 69 - Creating a Forest School as a Village woven with Healing and Support with Danielle Zola LMSW, M.S.Ed

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

My guest in this episode found her way to 'nature based education' under duress, like so many program leaders. Danielle Zola shares her visionary journey that was propelled by the needs of the children, and the needs of parents, and the desire to not 'settle' for the status quo. It's the most painful thing to see our very young children suffering in a school system that struggles or fails to be flexible and adapt to student needs, so stepping away from that model was a first step towards something new and innovative. She and her partner Kerin Una began a community based forest school that also included strong elements of parental healing and inner growth.

Creating that kind of safe environment was challenging and rewarding, requiring deep vulnerability on the part of everyone involved. Danielle led by example, and found a way forward, overcoming challenges and adapting to the needs of the village. Her story is profound and inspiring, offering a unique model that is full of hope and promise for a new way of imagining our lives.

Website: https://www.rootsandwingsvillage.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellezolalmsw/?hl=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandwingsvillage/?hl=en

Linktree: https://bio.site/rootsandwingsvillage

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rootsandwingsvillage

Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rooted-resilient

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Episode 68 - Forest Educator Spotlight - Lessons From The North Wind

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The winter is a time of contrasts, where survival is hardest for most living things, and at the same time, sometimes also including times when we can feel closest to those in our families and our lives.

This episode explores the lessons found in the wild, through Winter Skills classes I've led for over 25 years, with students ranging in age from 14-50. We discuss some of the most challenging winter conditions for survival, high energy food, fire skills and the wonders of insulators found in the wild.

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https://aprilsteachingtree.com/

Episode 67 - Public Schools & Nature Program Leverage Points- with April Zajko, M.Ed

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For most nature educators, getting into a public school can be daunting and even a little intimidating. The desire to offer forest education to ALL children is balanced against the number of hoops we have to jump through to make it happen.

Enter April Zajko, who is a nature preschool teacher with a keen understanding of how to find ways to collaborate with schools and organizations in a variety of settings.

She's a 'Jill of All Trades', when it comes to Forest Education.

She presents at conferences. She leads 'teacher retreats' in the woods. She moderates a massive Facebook Group called the Nature Inspired Teacher. She teaches college classes, and online programs for educators. She is still a preschool teacher, too.

It's been a wonderful time hearing her vision of hope for our children, and the future of early childhood education.

Connect with April:

Nature Inspired Teacher Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1843474542616408

Website/Courses: https://aprilsteachingtree.mykajabi.com/links

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Episode 66 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Ethical Dilemmas in Forest Education

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Ethical dilemmas happen when we are faced with situations where all of the options have conflicts with our morals or personal philosophy or beliefs. In Forest Education, this happens around a number of issues, like employee compensation, or wildcrafting resources, or program pricing.

Thirty years ago, I faced these issues alone, and did the best I could, as you will hear in this episode, but in today's digital world, we have new resources and connections and networks so we don't have to navigate them on our own. We have new program models, other directors and leaders who can share their own choices and how they worked out, as well as best practices and more.

We face many challenges in our world today, and it's a given that as Forest Education grows, it will be filled with more and more dilemmas and philosophical crossroads. My hope is that these challenges will lead to new and growing diversities of opportunities for parents, adults, teens and communities. I can personally attest that it's much more enjoyable and productive to work through them with a group of experienced peers than to face them on our own.

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Episode 65 - Choosing Wholistic Nature over Corporate Culture - with Rimi Chakraborty

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When Rimi and her husband chose to 'Take the Leap', it didn't seem TOO difficult. Leaving a good corporate job with a decent nest egg and opening an island retreat center in the Azores seemed relatively safe.

Everything sounds good in theory. In your living room in Massachusetts.

However, things can go south in a hurry when 'island time' and contractors and language barriers all combine into a perfect storm. That living room feeling can seem impossibly far away.

Hard times show us who we are inside, but they can also just be SO hard to navigate, and there are many who lose their way when the chips are down.

In this episode, Rimi shares her story of resilience, of reinvention of self and heart, and the power of creativity and healing that led to her development of amazing Retreats that combine nature, yoga, island cuisine and deep renewal. Black sand beaches, hot springs, volcanic energy and local foods and fruits all work a powerful magic that she harnesses to point in a different direction for our lives, one that can have a lasting impact on all of us for generations.

Connect with Rimi:

Website: https://www.minuvida.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rimichakra_/?hl=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minuvida_azores/

Rootsilience Book: https://www.rootsilience.com/book

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rimi.chakraborty/

Leadership Mastermind (free): https://www.rootsilience.com/courses/mastermind

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Episode 64 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Swamp Stories

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

If there is one area in nature that many people 'fear to tread', it's wetlands, bogs and swamps. These areas are difficult to traverse, especially if you are afraid to get dirty. There are mosquitoes. There are snapping turtles. Water snakes slither under the banks, and great blue herons stalk frogs along the lily pads. There is often a rich, moist smell of decaying leaves, tree bark and plants that a lot of people find objectionable.

I get it. We're used to clean environments, fabric softener scented clothing and staying dry in today's world. That's understandable and it makes sense.

These estuaries, marshes and beaver flooded woods are filled with incredible wildlife, plants that amaze. They are incredible learning environments that I've come to love.

These are some of my adventures amongst the cattails, reeds and sawgrass.

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https://www.willowbrookbasketfarm.com/

Episode 63 - The Power of Making Baskets by Hand in an Automated World- with Sandra Kehoe

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode explores the work of the Natural Artists, the Crafters and the Makers, and all of those who make useful and beautiful things from nature. Sandra Kehoe weaves experiences with her students like the willows they bend, their fingers full of the rich scent of green bark and tree sap.

There is a longing by many women to form something that will last, but that impulse is paired with the feeling of warmth and connection that occurs when women share their lives in these classes. Basketmaking, like so many 'nature crafts', is meditative, and at the same time, energizing, as new skills are learned and the willow itself begins to share its gifts.

Sandra's journey includes the commitment to buying and creating a 'willow farm', planting thousands of willow shoots of different species, to bring this powerful art for future generations.

Connect with Sandra:

Website:

Basketmaking Resource List:

https://www.willowbrookbasketfarm.com/contact

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sandra.kehoe.5/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/sandra.kehoe.5

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Episode 62 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Five Nature Program Marketing Mistakes (and how to fix them!)

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

It's understandable that most nature program directors or entrepreneurs are better trackers, or basketmakers, or wild foods gatherers than they are at marketing and promoting their programs. Those things are what we are passionate about, so it makes sense.

At the same time, if we want students and income from our educational programs, we need to find ways to to communicate the value of what we do.

If we don't, our programs can be in trouble.

This episode dives into the five biggest elements of marketing and communications that I've seen trackers and naturalists struggle with, speaking from both my own personal experience and my own coaching clients over the years. I will also share simple ways that we can improve our efforts that will make the difference between half full programs and ones that have wait lists.

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Episode 61 - Leadership, Brotherhood & Inclusion in the Outdoors: Mentoring BIPOC Young Men with Manny Almonte

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The loneliness and struggle that young men experience, especially young men of color, is one that happens silently, almost invisibly every day. The opportunity to connect with older men and new friends and peers in the wild is literally life changing for them, and for the leaders and guides as well.

This episode shares the extraordinary journey that Manny discovered through finding his own healing in a circle of peers in Brooklyn. When men of color share their gifts and strategies for resilience with each other, good things happen and Manny shares how those profound and beneficial experiences grew to include high school students in the surrounding boroughs. It's a powerful story that continues today, where young men experience this 'circle of brotherhood' in the outdoors, where transformational conversations and perspectives can take root.

The needs of our current generation of young people exceeds the capacity of kind, connected men who lead these journeys, but the seeds of this work are powerful and are beginning to sprout and grow before our eyes. Manny Almonte is a true gift to our communities, inspiring and passionate, and it is a joy to share his mission on this podcast.

Connect with Manny and Camping to Connect:

Website: https://www.campingtoconnect.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campingtoconnect/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campingtoconnect

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsbypr_alrPe9vnaWQKCDWw

Short Film about Manny's Work: https://www.campingtoconnect.com/wood-hood

Recent Achievement: https://www.nationalrecreationfoundation.org/crawford-prize/

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Episode 60 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Building Community around Forest Education

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Probably the most unexpected thing that people realize while attending a nature program is how GOOD it feels to share the experience in the company of interesting, positive, and motivated participants. Yes, the skills learned are important and the crafts made are the things that entice people to come and learn, but in my estimation, the 'community' aspect of these programs is what creates a kind of magic that is very transformative. It doesn't always happen, but when it does, it makes all of the hard work worthwhile, for all of us as educators.

Hosting or leading 'community building' events or experiences has many benefits for your personal and professional networking, for marketing your programs, and for meeting interesting people who can find mutually beneficial relationships in the coming months and years. Seasonal celebrations, family-friendly arts or hikes or excursions, or even just a campfire and a potluck can all be part of the process, with some being much easier to pull off than others!

This episode explores some of the different types of community-building activities that work and discusses issues that are important to consider when choosing one that can get you started in your own area. I also cover some of the pitfalls and rabbit holes that can open up without warning, coming from those with 'unmet expectations' and 'unwritten agreements' that sometimes get us 'into the weeds' and stuck in the swamp.

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Episode 59 - The Challenges and Joys of Forest Schooling in Southeast Asia with Sharon Cortez

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The magic and power of 'forest school' programming and pedagogy has spread far and wide, from the Scandinavian origins to Europe, Turkey, North America, Australia, South Korea and now into Southeast Asia. Sharon Cortez founded The Forest School of the Philippines, and has been on a mission to bring the benefits and positive results of this model of pre-school, kindergarten & younger grades to communities throughout her country.

Sharon shares her journey, starting with her epiphany and subsequent change in professional career, then to her training and now to her work with children and youth in the region south of Manilla.

It's not easy to pioneer something new into any culture, but her persistence has been aided by her own extensive experience in marketing and communications, which has been vital in helping her message to be received by both schools and parents. She shares about her daily experiences with the children, and how forest school is different in the tropical region from its distant alpine origins.

Connect with Forest School Philippines:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forestschoolph/

Website: https://forestschoolphilippines.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbRSnf7iSFB0i8RGYOmjH_w

Forest School Webinar: Forest School 101 https://mailchi.mp/3dde8d19886e/fsphreplay

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestschoolph/

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/shop/forestschoolph

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Episode 58 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Entering the Wild

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

During the early years of my wilderness skills training and practice, I began to notice something interesting when I would venture out into the forest. I spent a lot of time in nature to gather materials for making tools and crafts, or foraging for wild foods, and it seemed like I could do these things in two different ways. One was going in when I was hurried, distracted or very 'goal oriented'. At these times, the agenda was all about ME. I needed some willow to make a pair of tongs or a basket. I needed acorns for a program I was running on wild foods. I needed a few arrow shafts for my newly carved bow. I felt rushed and focused on the mission. When I stepped back, I saw that I was bringing the 'world of humans' into the forest, which was disconnected from 'the flow'.

The other way I entered the forest was more relaxed, and less restricted by time constraints. I still had an overall goal of finding something to gather, but it was further down the list of my needs. I made it a priority to be awake and alert to ALL of the natural world, with less tunnel vision focus. My breathing changed. My body posture, even muscle tension would improve, and the way I walked, all pointed to something important.

What I learned from paying attention to this obscure approach had ramifications for my personal mental health, well being and personal clarity.

It also impacted the way I taught and experienced my 'forest programs' in a profoundly positive way that I still use today.

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Davidethanalexander/?fbclid=IwAR2dw_R23YpwNFKT2peLWCSBXMlLBAWO78e46nR242XoIu5KzcAp_HnaB80

Episode 57 - The Equitable Power of Forest Education in the Public Sector with David Alexander

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

David Alexander is a naturalist, bushcrafter, Adirondack Guide, wild foods forager and avid hunter and fisherman who also serves the youth of New Jersey in environmental education. He's developed innovative nature programs for lots of different ages, homeschoolers, and local groups through his work with the New Jersey Parks & Recreation Department, winning the Employee of the Year in 2023 recently for his commitment to excellence.

It takes effort, energy and creativity to build bridges in schools, organizations and county and state parks, but David is navigating the currents like a river rafting guide shooting class IV rapids, and always coming out refreshed and smiling! His work is a testament to how one dedicated, passionate person can create change and inspiration in Public Institutions who are willing to adapt and grow in today's changing world.

He shares his approach and passion for making a difference not just for children but also adults in his private guiding experiences, where he offers adventures that involve backpacking, canoeing, fishing, foraging and wilderness skills. His Instagram account had me longing for the solitude and joy of deep nature immersion and it's not to be missed!

Connect with David:

Nature Into Action Website: https://natureintoaction.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natureintoaction/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Natureintoaction

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Episode 56 - The Forest Educator Spotlight: Cold Training

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

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Episode 55 - Going Off-Grid & Into the Canadian Wild with Kielyn Marrone of Lure of the North

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There's an almost mystical longing for the wild expanse that stretches north into the Arctic, with small birch trees, firs and spruces, mazes of unnamed rivers and lakes, and a landscape almost devoid of people. My thirst for that wild probably began with Jack London, Call of the Wild, White Fang and To Build A Fire, and then deepened with writings of Farley Mowat and the film Never Cry Wolf. Wherever it comes from, I just know that my imagination burns brightly when I see those places in my mind or think of those who call it home

In this episode, we dig into what it's like to live in The North, where Kielyn and Dave Marrone guide trips for seekers into their wild backyard.

Kielyn shares about the labor-intensive process of teaching classes back in 'civilization', the luxury of consistent internet, and the insanely delicious Smoked Salmon Alfredo & Lazy Chicken Pot Pie that she prepares for everyone on a multi-day trek. We get a first-hand view of the process of setting up camp, the camaraderie created in heated tents, and sharing stories of the day's adventures. She also shares how they 'keep it real' for the participants, and why they keep coming back, despite the hard work and rugged conditions. She and her husband are forest educators to the max.

Connect with Kielyn:

Lure of the North Website: https://lureofthenorth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lureofthenorth/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/lureofthenorth

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Episode 54 - The Forest Educator Spotlight: Seven Things I Wish I'd Known Before Starting Hawk Circle

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

I started my Hawk Circle Wilderness Camp in the summer of 1989, but it had been a dream of mine for about four years earlier.

It was glorious, and it was amazing.

It was also a process of trial and error, and I made a lot of mistakes, mostly minor, but still, mistakes all the same. Despite being a relatively quick learner, it still took years to really hone the 'recipe' and build something that created consistent results. Once the program was in a good place, there were hundreds of different ways that I learned to refine, hone, reimagine and re-work to help Hawk Circle be a place that helped people, and didn't actually produce more trauma for everyone involved. (I know, I dream big!)

I don't have a time machine so I'm not going to get any 'do-overs', and I haven't yet learned to control any 'time-slipping' like Loki in the Marvel Universe, but I CAN share some of the things I've come to see as essential to my own journey as a forest educator and as a program director. If any of these can help one of you out there to be more successful, work easier, build better relationships or just experience a little less struggle in the day-to-day, that's all I can hope for!

The field of 'forest educators' is vast, and it's a multiversal spectrum of wonderful people working in all kinds of different capacities, so it's difficult to say if all of these will be useful to everyone. It's useful to just hear the questions sometimes, and turn them over in our minds, opening up to the possibilities and new ways of thinking.

There is a good chance that even if I came back in time and told my younger self all of these, my stubbornness and idealism would put up some amazing resistance that would keep me from truly benefitting, but I'd like to think that I would eventually come around!

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Episode 53 - Connecting to Nature Through Plants, Medicine & Herbal First Aid with Sam Coffman

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

One of the things I love most about this podcast is getting to have conversations with amazing people who love to dive deeply into their chosen field of study. Some of these individuals do work that greatly improves the entire field of study, like Dr. Kersey Lawrence with Tracking, or Mark Elbroch and Sam Thayer with Field Guides. These contributions have far reaching consequences that help us all to grow and learn and 'do better'.

In this interview, Sam Coffman shares his journey with plants & gardening in childhood with his parents and native peoples, to becoming a Special Forces Medic, and then deep into Botany and Herbology. He's woven a life filled with a love of martial arts, awareness, survival skills, wild foods and search & rescue and shared it with students from all different walks of life for decades.

As an actively practicing 'herbal medic', he offers us a way to be connected to nature while also holding a commitment to excellence that can have lasting impact for healing and growth for us all.

Connect with Sam:

Website: https://www.herbalmedics.clinic/#home

Book Link : https://herbalfirstaidgear.com/product/the-herbal-medic-book/

Instagram: @HerbalMedicSam

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Episode 52 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Problem with Intangible Results

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

If you've ever tried to talk about the meaning and value of an experience in nature with someone who's never experienced something similar, it can feel like talking to a brick wall.

The problem isn't with us, or with everyone else, but it's built into the language of our culture, and with the very nature of 'the intangible aspects' of our experiences.

It's time to get clear, take action and begin connecting with everyone in ways that can help us struggle a little less, build more community and enjoy our work!

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https://www.instagram.com/twinklekidsireland/

Episode 51 - The Long and Winding Road from China to Ireland with Katie Fu

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Some of the best educators are shaped through a lifetime of not quite 'fitting in'. They see the world differently than most, and push back against the status quo, sometimes in creative ways. It can take a while, honestly, and it's not always easy. Especially when you are busy learning Mandarin in a new and radically different culture.

When it comes together, though, the struggle is all worth it, even when it's born in the middle of a pandemic.

We all figure it out in our own way.

In this episode, Katie shares how her journey across the world reignited her passion for early childhood education. She created Twinkle Kids Ireland based on her early love of nature and some Reggio/Montessori inspired nature principles back on the Emerald Isle, and we talk about the positive outcomes her students and families experience as well.

Connect with Katie:

https://www.twinklekids.ie/

https://www.instagram.com/twinklekidsireland/

https://www.facebook.com/twinklekidsireland

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Episode 50 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Exploring the Role of Spirituality in Forest Education

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

This episode dives into the more 'intuitive' and 'feeling' areas of nature education, and how we can support our students/clients/children to have experiences that go beyond an intellectually based understanding of our world. This topic is tricky to navigate, so I do my best to be fully transparent and authentic, and be validating to lots of different forms in which these experiences can be shared.

There are things that happen in nature that are difficult to describe and understand, and I have had many situations where logic isn't all that helpful when it comes to integrating them into my daily understanding of the world. I share a few of these examples, knowing that they are but the tip of the iceberg that is all of our collective stories and 'magical moments'.

Nature Spirituality is a particularly sensitive topic to many cultures around the earth, and the way we talk about them in a conscious and considerate way is vital to helping hundreds of thousands of children and adults to heal and grow and find a new path for humanity. The human development aspects of these experiences are in some ways the key to building a new and hopeful future, especially if we can find ways that are collaborative and inclusive and compassionate.

Please enjoy Episode #50.

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Episode 49 - Himalayan Treks, Transformation and Ethical Business Philosophy with Lakshmi Selvakumaran of IndiaHikes.

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Helping the Indian people have access to hundreds of hikes, treks and nature exploration is an ambitious, constantly evolving vision that has seen amazing success for the IndiaHikes organization. In this episode, I am talking with Lakshmi Selvakumaran, director of training and research and she shares the origin story of IndiaHikes, as well as details about who they serve, how they build the culture of their team of leaders and much more.

When I discovered them through Instagram, I thought it was a 'trekking company' that catered to foreign tourists who hiked and climbed in these incredible mountains, but I soon realized that their mission was very different from that initial impression. Honestly, the more I see and learn about what they do, and how they do it and how they are now expanding to serve schools and children, the more I am in awe of their attention to detail and hard work.

I am impressed, and thankful and excited to share this interview with you all.

Please enjoy Episode #49.

Connect with Lakshmi:

IndiaHikes.com

Instagram: @IndiaHikes

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Episode 48 - The Forest Educator Spotlight: How To Understand The Value of Our Programs

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

We're talking about the business of forest education again today in this week's Forest Educator Spotlight. How do we determine the value and appropriately price our programs? This may not be as fun as sharing stories about sitting under the trees and building shelters, but it has an important impact on our industry as a whole.

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Episode 47 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Forest Education with Todd Davis

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

My guest today is Todd Davis, a professor at the Delta State University down in the Mississippi Delta region. As an educator in an area with a very split population when it comes to racial and economic demographics, diversity, equity, and inclusion are topics that are at the forefront of Todd's work. In this episode, we are talking about cultural heritage and the outdoors, diversity and representation in outdoor recreation marketing, race inequality and allyship in a small Mississippi community, mental wellness, and so much more.

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Episode 46 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Big Questions Facing Forest Education

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The future of nature based learning looks bright, due to a growing awareness of the benefits of time spent outside.

It's an exciting time to be an educator right now, and there is a lot of reason to have a very real sense of hope that has been a long time in coming.

There are tens of thousands of nature educators who have been working for decades to help make this happen, and that generally has happened with low pay, long hours and self-created curriculum and activities. It's truly a grassroots process that deserves it's 'moment' in the greater field of education, both private and public.

However, there is a big jump from grassroots to legitimate public education partner, and that jump is not without risk and challenges.

In this episode, I share some of the biggest questions I have had running through my head as I contemplate this process, and how it might succeed (or fail) in the coming years. Right now, there are more questions than answers, but asking the right things can help us find options and solutions so we don't have to reinvent the wheel or 'wing it' when the stakes are high.

I'm hoping this audio can help stimulate YOUR big questions, and maybe generate some ideas and solutions along the way. After all, it's going to take ALL of us sharing our thoughts and opinions to find some different, unique models for urban schools, or older grades, or staff and teacher training. Part of the vision of this podcast is to bring us together and hear lots of different and unique voices and perspectives, and celebrate them all.

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https://www.instagram.com/joe_flowers_bushcraft_global/

Episode 45 - The Amazonian Rainforest Adventures of Joe Flowers: Creating life changing experiences in the Jungles of South America

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There are a lot of different and unique ways to enter the field of nature education, and you'd think that designing knives wouldn't be one of them. But that's exactly the way Joe discovered a passion for wilderness, bushcraft and native culture.

In this episode, we discuss the safety issues that come along with the process of leading jungle experiences, from poison dart frogs to piranhas and more. He shares how people respond to spending time in this diverse and rich ecosystem, learning not just from Joe but also the native peoples of that region who are willing to share their unique connection to rainforest life.

It's always exciting to learn and hear about how forest education differs around the world, and I am very excited to share our conversation with you about Joe's work!

Connect with Joe:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg3e3sv8kE56jN1wHvbyPDg

https://bushcraftglobal.com/

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Episode 44 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Coming of Age in the Wilderness

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The transition from childhood to young adulthood is full of intense change and growth in a relatively short period of time. It can be rough for parents as well, and for eons, earth based cultures had cultural rituals and customs that supported everyone through this initiation. However, in today's rapidly changing world, those customs have been largely lost in that upheaval, and we are left on our own to figure it out.

Fortunately, the natural world offers help, (again), that are substantial benefits for youth and their families, and our 'forest educator programs' are in a perfect position to deliver these gifts. This episode takes a deep dive into this aspect of Forest Education, drawing on over 35 years of my time leading programs, summer camps, workshops & retreats.

If you work with this age group, or have children or grandchildren who are, my hope is that you will discover some insights and new ways of supporting an older boy or girl who is stepping into a larger world.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-calhoun90/

Episode 43 - Answering the Call: The Purposefully Diverse Forest Journey of a Nature Educator with Emily Woodmansee

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Emily Woodmansee seems to always be in the right place at the right time, to learn, grow, educate, and transform the educational experience of youth in her community. She's worked in science-based nature programs, wilderness/earth skills adventures, early childhood, elementary and middle school-aged children, and has been involved in Forest School Training in a variety of ways with ERAFANS. She took some time out of her schedule to talk with me about her journey, and how the 'forest educator' field looks from her perspective, and hear about her current launch of her own Forest School near the Delaware Water Gap in Pennsylvania.

The focus, dedication, and talent that are showing up in this moment for nature education is impressive, and people like Emily give us all hope for a better world filled with nature-based learning for children everywhere.

Connect with Emily:

https://www.amongtheferns.com/

https://www.facebook.com/learnamongtheferns

https://www.instagram.com/learnamongtheferns

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Episode 42 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Natural Shelters

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

I don't think it would be a stretch to say that for children, building forts and shelters is a universal urge. When given some time to explore and a bunch of different materials like sticks, logs, stones, tarps or cardboard, most kids will figure out how to build something! It might be more symbolic, or it could be an actual working shelter, but the effort is there!

This episode is all about shelters I've made and slept in, like debris huts, stone & log hogans, thatch huts and stacked debris wall shelters. I also share about the pros and cons of some of these shelters, and how I've woven this important skill into our nature programs in different ways. After over 35 years of teaching wilderness skills, I have to admit that I am not exactly excited to teach it these days (for reasons I share in the podcast), but I will never deny the power that shelters have and their rightful inclusion into any forest education program!

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https://www.oceanconservation.org/maddalena-bearzi-author/

Episode 41 - Finding Nature in Uncertain Times, with field biologist, author and photo-journalist Maddalena Bearzi

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

What does an ocean conservation president do when everything shuts down during a pandemic?

Well, she discovers a world full of life and wonder in the urban Los Angeles landscape, of course. In between field study assignments for whales and dolphins as part of her landmark marine biology studies, she found astonishing forms of nature in the most unlikely places. We talk about her journey both as a scientist and wildlife advocate, and I explain why she's an incredible 'Forest Educator' despite being far from most forests on a daily basis.

"What about Kelp?" I think to myself, but our small definitions don't really matter in light of the ecological crisis unfolding before us on a daily basis.

Maddalena is the author of the recently published Stranded: Finding Nature in Uncertain Places, as well as Beautiful Minds: The Parallel Lives of Great Apes and Dolphins, and Dolphin Confidential: Confessions of a Field Biologist. Her stories and writing describe a lifetime of passion for the natural world, and our conversation dives into her many books, as well as her work as the President and co-founder of the Ocean Conservation Society.

Connect with Maddalena:

https://www.amazon.com/Stranded-Finding-Nature-Uncertain-Times/dp/1597146048/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205611&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-1

https://www.amazon.com/Dolphin-Confidential-Confessions-Field-Biologist-ebook/dp/B007CN44SM/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205639&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-4

https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Minds-Parallel-Lives-Dolphins-ebook/dp/B002P686QC/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205639&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-5

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Episode 40 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Becoming Nocturnal

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There was a time in my wilderness skills training and practice where I took a big step in my 'nature awareness' study and 'got nocturnal'. Yeah, it seems a bit radical when I describe it now, but at the time, it wasn't that big of an extra step. I was already making buckskin, practicing tracking and fire making and lots of other skills in every bit of my free time, but I felt like I was still disconnected to the wildlife around me in a more meaningful way.

Because the majority of the animals in my ecosystem were mostly active at night, it seemed logical to follow their lead.

This episode is all about my experience, from committing to a full month of being on 'the night shift' to the rules and parameters I worked out to insure that I would be fully in 'their world' and take a break from the 'modern human perspective'.

The lessons and feelings and connections I experienced on those moonlit (and moonless!) nights changed how I feel about the darkness forever.

Please Enjoy Episode #40.

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https://www.amazon.com/When-Dark-Mother-Calls-Initiatory-ebook/dp/B0CKTYFK4K/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1697520625&sr=8-1

Episode 39 - Deep Earth Initiations and Nature-Based Parenthood with Trista Haggerty

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

It is a true gift and honor for me to share the wonderful insights and magic of the person I live with here at Hawk Circle!

Her new book 'When the Dark Mother Calls' is available on Amazon, and you can read more of her story of her incredible journey there!

Book Link on Amazon:

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Episode 38 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Working with Middle Schoolers

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

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https://www.viristar.com/

Episode 37 - Outdoor Programming Advocacy and Influence with Jeff Baierlein

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In the field of Forest Education, I'd say that we are fairly well stocked with dedicated people on the front lines, working directly with children, youth and adults on a daily basis.

We also have a wonderful group of passionate directors and program leaders, who do a lot of the unseen work (some might say the 'dirty work') of daily administrative duties that have to be done to keep the doors open.

But the one area that sometimes goes unnoticed is the Advocacy Level, and the Big Picture Level, and the Long Range Thinking Level, where we might get traction at a city, state or country level.

It's at this level where having someone with strong nature education roots, who can consult with the decision makers to bring about truly equitable, awesome programming that will affect the lives of potentially millions of people.

Well, my guest today is one of those 'influencers'.

Jeff Baierlein is a tireless force for good, often traveling all around the world to consult with companies, governments and leaders. He works in risk management, outdoor program development and offers trainings, 'best practices' and support to allow them to benefit from successful models here in North America.

It can take years of steady advocacy, training and countless meetings to make programs like this happen, and he's right in the thick of this powerful change. Most of the time, there is little fanfare or attention that can celebrate the achievements of this branch of 'Forest Educators', so I am really happy to do that in my own small way, and feature his work for all of us to appreciate!

Jeff's journey from a wilderness educator to Outward Bound Instructor to Wilderness Medical Associates to the director of Viristar is impressive, and I really enjoyed our conversation!

Connect with Jeff:

https://www.instagram.com/viristarconsulting/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

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Episode 36 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Bonding Paradox

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The first rule about 'bonding' is like Fight Club:

"Never talk about Bonding."

At least to your students. (Because it's awkward and weird.)

But honestly, so many of the benefits of nature-based education present in the same exact way - basically invisible to most people who aren't paying close attention.

This episode explores ideas around mentoring, teaching, bonding, relationships, and even some staff management/training/hiring concepts too.

We all exist in a matrix of community, culture, and nature, and being able to build meaningful relationships is not always easy in today's digital world.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

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https://www.solforestschool.com/

Episode 35 - Growing Caring, Resilient, Soulful Future Stewards with Sally Wren Stevens of SOL Forest School

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 09:13:34 -0000

My guest today is Sally Wren Stevens, founder and director of SOL Forest School. She is sharing her story and what soulful, whole-child nature-based education means to her. With a wide variety of training from programs and mentors around the world, Sally brings unique and meaningful insights to the current and future state of curriculum, environment, and cultural reparation in youth programming.

Connect with Sally & SOL Forest School:

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Episode 34 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Entrepreneur Part II

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:13:00 -0000

The 'Business' side of nature education used to really stress me out. I really wished I could just do all of this good work, and provide for the family and have it not be 'weird' or awkward. I didn't like the idea of 'selling' my programs back then either, and it always felt very personal and vulnerable sharing my mission and hoping it would be accepted and valued and just 'work out'.

Over the years of doing this, I learned to work through my feelings about it, because there was no other way to go. I started to understand where my discomfort originated, and where some of my thinking was clouded by family history. I had stories running through my head that were based on ideas and principles that just were not true.

It wasn't easy working through those issues, dismantling them, and learning to see the world differently, but almost immediately, things began to change.

I also discovered that much of the so called 'business world' is still based on principles and ideas found in the practice of hunter gatherer's daily lives. These similarities were really helpful because they showed me a different way of looking at my work that paralleled my own skills and experience.

This episode focuses on marketing and messaging, which are critical skills for all forest educator program directors, founders and even instructors and educators. I've seen a lot of people and schools fade away due to lack of marketing skills or deep resistance to doing it, (among other reasons, too), and it's sobering to see good, dedicated, skilled and deeply caring people walk away from the field because they couldn't figure out how to make it all work.

I am not the defining voice of all forest educators, so please don't think I am speaking with any other authority than my own. There are SO many ways to do all of this work, and I'm always learning myself, every day. If you have something that is working for you that might help other educators, send me a message and let's talk about it!

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9jEZbkmhYg&t=6s

Episode 33 - Nature-Based Occupational Therapy and the Importance of Outdoor Play with Angela Hanscom

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In today's episode, my guest Angela Hanscom and I discuss all kinds of things related to developing skills through outdoor play, including:

The impact on childhood development when kids do not get enough outdoor play
How Angela built her nature-based occupational therapy business
Prioritizing play in kindergarten and early childhood
Play-based learning methods
Integrating nature-based learning into schools
The impacts and benefits of TimberNook's program on teacher satisfaction and student well-being
and so much more!

Angela Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of TimberNook–an award-winning nature-based program that has gained international popularity. TimberNook was designed as a vehicle to get children outdoors in sensory-rich experiences that inspire, restore, and challenge the mind and the body. They strive to be the “living example” of what real, authentic outdoor play should look like. TimberNook began as an experiment in Angela’s own backyard. She was hoping to make a difference in her local community. Now, her experiment has become an amazing journey that is making a difference for children in communities across the world.

Here's the video Angela mentions in the podcast:

Connect with Angela and TimberNook:

https://timbernook.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TimberNook.Camps

https://www.instagram.com/timbernook1/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

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Episode 32 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Many Gifts of Rain

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Dealing with the logistics of a day or several days of steady rain can be challenging for Forest Educators, with keeping everyone warm, dry, happy and engaged. In this episode, we go deeper, to the 'human development' side of Forest Ed, where we model ways of experiencing the natural world that go against the norm of our cultural messaging. Viewed and experienced through these lenses, rainy weather, or cold or heat or snow, all offer portals to understanding how our bodies will follow our attentive focus. These are also opportunities to connect with our friends and mentors more fully, sharing stories and entering a space of creativity that is shaped by the seasons and the weather of the day. Learning to shift our mood and attitude from discomfort to joy is a life skill not found often in youth programs, and these lessons are offered by thunderstorm, or cold fronts or heat domes, which are real and powerful forces of nature. Please enjoy episode 32.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

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https://www.primalnate.com/

Episode 31 - The Legacy and Lessons of Ancestral Wilderness Skills with Nate Summers

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

I'm thrilled to introduce you to today's guest, Nate Summers. Nate brings unique blend of primal adventure, deep nature connection, survival skills, and natural healing and medicine to his trainings, consultation, and writing. In this episode, we talk about wilderness survival skills and personal growth, the importance of connecting with nature and traditional skills, Nate's books and writing experience, archetypes and cultural significance, and so much more.

Connect with Nate:

https://www.instagram.com/primalnate

Support his new Kickstarter campaign:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/scoutcraft/scoutcraft-a-guidebook?ref=discovery&term=scoutcraft

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Episode 30 - The Forest Educator Spotlight: The Contradictory Nuances of Nature Awareness

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 09:25:06 -0000

It seems like everyone is talking about nature connection these days, (especially if you work in outdoor education), but what exactly do we mean by this expression? More importantly, how can we understand the idea and the practice from an intellectual and 'sensory' perspective?

In this episode, I dive into the deep end to try to unravel the nuances of some different kinds of awareness and connection. We will explore our current plight as human beings, how our culture drives us away from meaningful connection and creates a reality that seems inescapable to those who are trapped in the 'house of mirrors'.

I'm not going to sugarcoat anything here, and just say it; This episode is a little 'out there'.

It's difficult to talk about the effects of our perception, and the 'reality shaping' nuances that are possible when our language and values offer limited ways to express certain concepts and ideas. At this point, all we can do is start somewhere, and hope that these conversations can grow in understanding and scale, as we build a more comprehensive library of perspectives and practices.

In the end, the key to a better future for our grandchildren may be planted like seeds in the games, exercises, activities and challenges that Forest Educators are leading every day, all over the world.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.theforestpath.co.uk/

Episode 29 - Wellness, Reflection, and Masculinity in Wilderness with Sam Gravestock

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

My guest today is Sam Gravestock of The Forest Path. Sam leads men's retreats and guided therapeutic wilderness programs. He prioritizes accessibility and support when it comes to learning disabilities, behavioral mentoring, youth programs, individual validation and wellness, and reflecting and exploring masculinity.

Connect with Sam:

https://www.instagram.com/man_of_tanith

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076003952570

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 28 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Entrepreneur

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This Forest Educator spotlight is an introduction to entrepreneurship for the Forest Educator. If you are planning on generating revenue by providing programs or resources related to Forest Education, then you are considering entrepreneurship. Being great at Forest Education and being great at Entrepreneurship are not synonymous. In this episode, I'm sharing some of the lessons I've learned from 35+ years of forest entrepreneurship.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.leadwithnature.com/

Episode 27 - The Wisdom in Listening with Dan Gardoqui of Lead with Nature

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Today's guest is Dan Gardoqui, a nature consultant, trainer, and guide. Dan's work, Lead with Nature, is rooted in the patterns and processes of nature. He's also a certified wildlife tracker and a bird language expert. In addition to talking about tracking and bird language, in this interview, we talked about the diversity of approaches, inspiring young people, the importance of listening, integrating wisdom into your business, and so much more.

Connect with Dan:

https://www.instagram.com/leadwithnature

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 26 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Wilderness Survival Skills

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, we're talking about wilderness survival skills, and why they're important, and why they're an incredible resource for forest educators.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.originalwisdom.com/

Episode 25 - Changing Education from the Inside with International Wildlife Tracker and Environmental Educator Sandy Reed

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Sandy has created K-12 science curricula and international programs for schools including STEM Expeditions, credit-bearing field study courses that included taking students on trips throughout the US and internationally to South Africa, Iceland, and Belize. She is a Level 3 International Wildlife Tracker, in both the US and South Africa, certified through Cybertracker in track ID and Trailing. Sandy loves to organize adult and student trips to South Africa and travels there yearly to take people into the bush and work on her tracking skills.

In today's episode, we discuss:

The freedom of not having a standard curriculum
The advantage of having a team
How to get kids involved in tracking
Sandy's love for South Africa
Bringing nature experiences into classrooms
and so much more!

Connect with Sandy:

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 24 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Educator's Secret Sauce

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 07:50:00 -0000

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.jessicacarewkraft.com/

Episode 23 - Rewilding: Why We Need to be Wild with Jessica Carew Kraft

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

My guest today, Jessica Carew Kraft, left a high-powered career in technology, determined to find a better way to a thriving life in nature with her family. In pursuit of learning about "rewilding," she connected with an entire community of others who approach 21st-century problems with ancient human answers. Her new book, Why We Need to be Wild, is available now.

Connect with Jessica:

https://www.instagram.com/whyweneedtobewild

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 22 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Gift of Campfires

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This week's Forest Educator Spotlight is all about campfires and the magic they hold for all of us. The campfire brings a sense of comfort, connection, and calm, and this tradition has been around for thousands of years across all cultures around the world. Fire making is also a great way to introduce the concept of 'mastery' to our students, with tremendous benefits in leadership, problem-solving, awareness, attention to detail, and much more. I also share some of my best tips for working with campfires in a nature program in a safe and positive way.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://wendolynbird.com/

Episode 21 - Nature-Infused Coaching for Parents & Teachers with Wendolyn Bird

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this interview, I'm joined by Wendolyn Bird to talk about Early Childhood nature education and outreach. Wendolyn is a coach for parents and teachers. She draws from mindfulness practices, developmental and child psychology, Earth-based Wisdoms, and spirituality in order to help parents and teachers build more fulfilling connections to themselves, their children, and their students for lasting and beneficial change.

Connect with Wendolyn:

https://www.instagram.com/wendolyn__bird/

https://www.facebook.com/wendolynbirdcoaching

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 20 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Barriers to Nature Education

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As forest educators, there are several barriers we come up against with regard to nature education. In this week's forest educator spotlight episode, I'm talking about some of these obstacles, including the classic education and academic structure and curriculum, lack of parent and teacher experience with nature education, economic and time factors, and so much more. I'm also sharing some tips for advocating for better access to nature, the complications of cultural barriers and equity, and the sustainability of the environmental education model.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://peterkindfieldphd.substack.com

Episode 19 - Public Education is Broken with Peter Kindfield

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

My guest today is Peter Kindfield of Hilltop Education and Deep Adaptation Forum. We are talking about the ways public education is broken, and why forest education is an incredible - and critical - answer for kids and our future.

Connect with Peter:

https://hilltopeducation.com/

https://www.deepadaptation.info/

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 18 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Art of Tracking

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm talking about the art of tracking, why it's important, and how to introduce tracking skills and activities to your programs for kids.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.instagram.com/kytlynwalken/?hl=en

Episode 17 - Tracking and International Instruction with Kyt Lyn Walken

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Today's guest, Kyt Lyn Walken, is an international mantracking expert and instructor. In this episode, she shares some stories and background about her career as an instructor, as well as some tips and stories about the importance of tracking skills.

Connect with Kyt:

https://thewayoftracking.com/

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 16 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Maverick & The Collaborator Mindset

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This week's Forest Educator Spotlight is about two important mindsets and perspectives when it comes to Forest Education. In any group program, the ego is going to show up, and potentially get in the way. In this episode, I'm explaining the Maverick and the Collaborator Mindsets and why it's so important to be collaborative.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://rainorshinemamma.com/

Episode 15 - Raising Children in the Open Air with Linda McGurk

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Today I'm joined by the author of The Open Air Life and There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather, Linda McGurk, whose writing focuses on raising children in the Nordic style of living more in tune with nature.

Connect with Linda:

https://lindamcgurk.com/

https://www.instagram.com/rainorshinemamma/

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 14 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Navigating Boundaries - Behaviors and Discipline

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This Forest Educator Spotlight is all about that tricky subject of navigating boundaries when it comes to managing behavior and discipline. These are serious issues when working with students.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.otherwiseeducation.com/

Episode 13 - Connection, Creativity, and Teaching Teachers with Jonny Walker of Otherwise Education

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Jonny Walker embraces the creativity of writing and poetry retreats outdoors, and helping teachers with outdoor education development, in his organization Otherwise Education. In this episode we talk about the work he's doing, the problems facing traditional educators today, trust and risk aversion when working with children, and the power of the forest when it comes to creativity and imagination.

Connect with Jonny and Otherwise Education:

https://www.instagram.com/otherwiseedu/?hl=en

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 12 - Forest Educator Spotlight: After School Programs

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This week's Forest Educator Spotlight is all about After School Programs. In this episode, I'm sharing some tips about what you can and can't do in an after-school program, how to build connections with the students, the program model and the business model, and so much more.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.aureliacg.com/

Episode 11 - Connecting Urban Children with the Natural World with Aurélia Cheuvreul-Gaud

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I'm joined by Aurélia Cheuvreul-Gaud, TedX Speaker and Author of the 7 Connection Gateways Pedagogy. She's passionate about environmentalism and biodiversity, and strives to connect urban children from standard education systems to the natural world. We talk about the challenges that teachers and children face in standard schools, and why it's important to consider this a long-term approach.

Connect with Aurélia:

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 10 - Forest Educator Spotlight: The Challenges of Ethical Gathering

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm talking about the challenges of ethical gathering. Learn how to protect your reputation, build your resource network and community, and honor the environment in today's episode.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://everwildforestschool.org/

Episode 09 - Forest School as Alternative Education with Erica Hermsen from Everwild Forest School

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

My guest in today’s episode is Erica Hermsen, the director and founder of Everwild Forest School. With a background in conservation and wilderness education, ever since her undergraduate education, Erica knew that she wanted to find a way to capture the magic and massive impact that outdoor programming can have for kids. Once she had her own daughters, she became even more determined to find a way to battle all the challenges facing kids today. Her family moved to Boise and she founded Everwild Forest School… right in the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. In this episode, Erica shares her successes, obstacles, and lessons learned in the past 3 years as a forest educator.

Connect with Erica & Everwild Forest School:

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 08 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Mastering the Skills Behind the Skills

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As forest educators, it's important that we don't just teach skills: but we really teach the skills behind the skills. In today's world of modern conveniences, the average kid is not witnessing how things happen in the world around them, or the skills it takes to make things happen, as they grow up. Forest education doesn't just teach people wilderness and earth skills, but it teaches us how to think and adapt. In this Forest Educator Spotlight episode, I'm talking all about the skills behind the skills and sharing lots of stories about this practice in action.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.makingtracks.co/

Episode 07 - Wilderness Education in a Modern World with Guest Erik Rasmussen (Part 2)

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This episode is Part 2 of a 2-part episode featuring Erik Rasmussen of Making Tracks Earth Education. We discuss social media, experience in addition to skill-building, and innovative ways to adapt programming to leverage nature as the world's greatest facilitator. Did you miss part 1? Make sure to go back and listen to last week's episode with Erik, too!

Connect with Erik and Making Tracks Earth Education:

https://www.instagram.com/ehrasmussen94/

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 06 - Forest Educator Spotlight: My Best Tips for Staff Hiring & Training

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm sharing some of my best tips for staff hiring and training. I hope this helps you keep in mind some different ways to think about how to effectively use your team to achieve your desired program outcomes. There are always things that come up with your staff that are totally unexpected, so hopefully this episode also prepares you for the unknown.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://www.makingtracks.co/

Episode 05 - Wilderness Education in a Modern World with Guest Erik Rasmussen (Part 1)

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This episode is Part 1 of a 2-part episode featuring Erik Rasmussen of Making Tracks Earth Education. We discuss AI, recreation education as it compares to survival education, and the importance and disconnection of wilderness skills in today's modern world. Tune in next Thursday for Part 2 of this conversation with Erik.

Connect with Erik and Making Tracks Earth Education:

https://www.instagram.com/ehrasmussen94/

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 04 - Forest Educator Spotlight: Ten Things I Always Carry on a Forest Adventure

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm sharing the most key items I carry with me in my pack on forest adventures. You might need to adapt this list to your own preferences and environmental circumstances, but hopefully this list gives you some ideas about some items you might not have thought about before.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

https://befreeforestschool.co.uk/

Episode 03 - The Global Mental Health Crisis for Kids and Adults and Why Forest Education Programs are Important with Guest Jude Vinton

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:20:00 -0000

I'm excited to welcome my first guest to the podcast, Forest Educator Jude Vinton who runs Be Free Forest School in the UK. Jude shared her story about how she transitioned into (and out of) traditional teaching before opening her Forest School program, the huge obstacle in this industry when it comes to funding, and the mental and emotional health and well-being crisis facing kids (and adults) today and why forest education is so important. She also shared some of her favorite resources, which I've linked below!

Connect with Jude:

https://www.facebook.com/befreeforestschool

https://www.instagram.com/befreeforestschool/

Book Recommendations in this Episode:

The Organic Artist for Kids by Nick Neddo - https://amzn.to/3qOzM9D

Losing Eden: Our Fundamental Need for the Natural World and Its Ability to Heal Body and Soul by Lucy Jones - https://amzn.to/3qBa7Bi

Wild Days: Outdoor Play for Young Adventurers by Richard Irvine - https://amzn.to/3X5Vx11

Activities, Games and Challenges for Learning Outside the Classroom by Tracey Maciver - https://amzn.to/3p3MpgC

Activities, Games and Challenges for Learning Outside the Classroom 2 by Tracey Maciver - https://amzn.to/43HHK2Y

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 02 - How Forest Education Can Create Human and Environmental Impact (Ricardo's Story)

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:15:00 -0000

This episode is all about my story: my first wilderness memories, the childhood stories that inspired my sense of adventure, where my wilderness career began, and how I grew Hawk Circle over the past 35 years. Plus, I'm sharing some insights into The Forest Educator Initiative and why the work we're doing in this community is so important in 2023.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Episode 01 - What is a Forest Educator?

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:10:00 -0000

It seems like the best place to start is to introduce what we mean when we talk about Forest Educators. In the inaugural episode of The Forest Educator Podcast, I explore the different layers and angles involved in forest education and the types of conversations we are going to have on this podcast. If you have suggestions of other types of people (or specific people!) we should be having conversations with on this podcast, make sure to send me a message and let me know. I love to hear from you!

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook:

Coming Soon: The Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 11:37:00 -0000

Introducing The Forest Educator podcast hosted by Ricardo Sierra. Join Ricardo as he engages in enlightening conversations with educators from across the globe who are revolutionizing nature-based education. Drawing on his 35 years of experience in wilderness education, Ricardo shares practical insights, tools, and best practices to inspire and support forest educators worldwide. Tune in twice a week for interviews with passionate educators and skill spotlights that delve into the challenges and triumphs of the field. The Forest Educator Podcast launches on June 15 with three initial episodes, so grab your favorite beverage and get ready to be inspired. Download an episode and join our community of dedicated educators striving to make a difference in the world.

Connect with Ricardo:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/

Linkedin:

Instagram:

Facebook: