1000 Hours Outsides podcast

What if the antidote to our frantic, hyper-scheduled lives is a single pot of herbs on the back step? In this deeply honest conversation, returning guest Bailey Van Tassel shares how planting one container cracked open a new way of living—rewiring how she mothers, works, and measures “success.” We talk about the joy of learning again as an adult, the “just-enoughness” a garden offers in every season, and why kids (and parents) come alive when we co-create with nature. You'll hear the city-to-soil story behind Bailey's new book Kitchen Garden Living, and the surprising ways a messy bed of flowers can mirror a beautiful, resilient family life. Listen and let your shoulders drop. Then we get practical: pollinator borders that invite life, trap crops that protect your veggies, companion planting that keeps pests in check, trellises and hoops that make space, and Bailey's simple “poker planting” method so you know what to grow, where, and how much. We also swap soul-feeding ideas—family foraging maps, pressed-flower pasta, homegrown teas and salves—and make the case to start small today. Follow Bailey and explore her resources at baileyvantassel.com. Listen in and then share this one with a friend who's craving a gentler pace—and maybe a tomato that tastes like summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation is a deep breath and a practical roadmap for a time when parenting has become so challening. Bestselling author Kari Kampakis (mom of four girls) joins Ginny to share what truly equips daughters for today's pressures—friendship shifts, online comparison, dating drama, and the “conformity engine” that can steal childhood wonder. Kari's hope-forward framework is simple and memorable: use the drip-drip-drip approach to big topics, teach girls to cast a wide net socially, and help them leave relationships with dignity. You'll hear why urgency often backfires, how to avoid the “bitter barn,” and how to plant short, sticky phrases your daughter will actually remember. Explore more of Kari's work here: karikampakis.com and her new book Is Your Daughter Ready? 10 Ways to Empower Your Girl for an Age of New Challenges here. This episode balances heart and horsepower. You'll get language for hard moments (including party safety, peer pressure, and tech boundaries), plus the comforting truth that seeds you've planted can't be unplanted. If you're parenting a girl—from elementary through college—this one is equal parts perspective shift and playbook. Share it with a friend who needs encouragement today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our most light and peppy episode to date, Danielle Kartes reminds us that joy is available today—not if or when. In this upbeat, heart-forward conversation, the celebrity chef behind Rustic Joyful Food shares how a closed restaurant, tight budgets, and a whole lot of grit became the soil for fourteen books, national TV appearances, and a ministry of encouragement. We swap stories about building a resilient family culture around the table, the healing power of rhythm and routine, and why “Dear dinnertime, we love you!” can change a home's atmosphere. Explore Danielle's world (and her recipes by season) at RusticJoyfulFood.com Parents, you'll love the practicals: getting kids confident in the kitchen, “flip it or skip it” ingredient swaps, toddler-tapas starters, and the lost skills every child can master—multiplying a recipe, seasoning with savvy, and knowing when a cake is done. Danielle's brand-new book The Best Kids Cookbook is a joyful on-ramp to all of it. Also, check out the other books mentioned in this episode! Your Were Always There Meant to Share If this conversation encouraged you, share the link with a friend—your text might be the bright spot in their day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special September Sunday episode is a deep breath for weary and wondering parents. Ginny welcomes author and podcaster Maeve Jemison to dismantle the most persistent homeschool myths—socialization, schedules, screens, “I'm not patient enough,” “we both work,” single parenting homeschool, and more—and to show why home can be the ultimate individualized education plan. Maeve shares how she pulled her daughter mid-year, moved from all-online to books on the couch, and discovered what so many families eventually see: kids thrive when we protect curiosity, right-size academics, build life skills, and make room for joy. It's practical, eye-opening, and deeply affirming—exactly the reset you need heading into a new homeschool week. You'll leave with concrete, calming takeaways: flexible rhythms that work for dual-income and single-parent homes, why functional literacy doesn't require full-time school hours, and how embracing many ways to be smart unlocks confidence for every learner. This conversation is part of our September Sunday series designed to help you start each week steady and supported. Listen, share with a friend who's on the fence, and keep the encouragement coming. • Get Maeve's book: Home Is Where the Truth Is: Why You Can and Should Homeschool Your Child • Listen to Maeve's podcast: Homeschooling for Catholic Parents — Listen on Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beloved guest Luis Fernando Llosa returns with a simple, gritty rescue plan for modern families: rebuild the family base camp so your kids can handle pressure, bullying, and performance culture without losing their joy. We dig into free play over frenzy, why most kids quit organized sports by 13, and how to prepare your child for the possibility of many job changes in adulthood. Resources: Emotionally Resilient Tweens and Teens by Luis Fernando Llosa and Kim John Payne Beyond Winning: Smart Parenting in a Toxic Sports Environment by Luis Fernando Llosa, Kim John Payne, and Scott Lancaster Whole Child Sports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heart-opening conversation, Ted Page and Ginny explore why grandfathers are oddly absent from popular culture—and why their presence might be exactly what modern families are missing. Drawing on Ted's new book, Good Grandpa: Stories from the Heart of Grandfatherhood, and voices from grandpas across cultures and generations, they unpack the joy (chocolate for breakfast!), the work (moving rocks, building character), and the legacy (forever letters, shared stories) that knit families together. Learn more about Ted's work and community at GoodGrandpa.com and find his book there, too. Ted makes a compelling case that today's grandparents are the first to inherit the internet—and can use it to reduce screens, not increase them: FaceTime for connection, emails as “forever letters,” and then power down for books, brooks, clay pits, and tree climbs. You'll leave with a simple mantra from Aunt Lois—“be there for them”—and practical ideas for welcoming grandparents in as allies who protect childhood, strengthen parents, and pass down love that outlives us. If this encourages you, share it with a grandparent (or grandparent-to-be), and grab more nature-rich family resources at 1000HoursOutside.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heart-lifting conversation, Ginny sits down with author and mama of nine Amy Hughes to explore how ordinary phrases shape extraordinary childhoods—often more than we realize. From the “funny” comment a six-year-old takes as literal truth, to why “be careful” and “calm down” backfire, Amy shows simple swaps that lower fear, raise connection, and help kids think for themselves. You'll hear practical ideas like creating a cozy “time-in” spot, ordering the environment instead of the child, and aiming for a five-to-one ratio of encouragement to correction—plus the courage to say the most powerful two words in a family: “I'm sorry.” Learn more about Amy's work and find her gentle, faith-filled voice here: Words Like Honey (book), @simplelittleamy, and simplelittleamy.com. We also wade into the tender dance of letting go as kids grow and how to grant real autonomy while staying a safe, steady place to land. It's a conversation for parents who want fewer ultimatums, more wisdom, and a home atmosphere that heals. If you've ever wondered how to speak life into your family when emotions run high, this episode will meet you right where you are and give you language you can use today. Share it with a friend who needs a hopeful nudge. A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Capstone Wellness - For over 24 years, Capstone has helped thousands of families on their path to healing. Learn more at  capstonewellness.com/1000hours  NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if boyhood isn't a problem to fix—but a strength to steward? In this energizing, tender conversation, Ginny Yurich and author Rebekah Lovell dismantle the myth that lively boys need taming. From a golf-cart rescue on Rebekah's farm to the everyday habits that build courage and character, they name what our culture gets wrong: over-scheduling, medicating drive, and treating noise, dirt, and risk like defects. They also offer a hopeful path back with ideas like service before entertainment, real responsibility, and wide-open hours outside. You'll leave with a practical playbook for reviving boyhood at any age: daily read-alouds, purposeful risk (trees, tools, real work), and simple rhythms that turn “busy” into brave. Start Rebekah's free Outdoor Reading Club to pair books with sunshine, then use this episode as your nudge to cut screen clutter, unschedule a little, and watch initiative bloom. If you've sensed that childhood is being tamed indoors, this is your permission and your plan to bring back wonder, grit, joy and lots of dirt. Get your copy of Boyhood Resurrected here Explore the mission the ⁠Warrior Poet Society⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Philosopher and author Dr. Kay Toombs joins Ginny to name the thing so many parents feel but can't quite describe—a hyperactive worldview that trains us (and our kids) to crave instant results and reject slow, quiet, real life. Drawing on her brilliantly researched book, Changing Our Minds (get the book), and decades living in an intergenerational, agrarian community, Kay explains how always-on tech reshapes attention, dulls imagination, and erodes empathy, while crafts and time outdoors rebuild patience the old-fashioned way. From the contagious joy of teens knitting their first headbands to kids discovering where dinner actually comes from, this conversation makes a compelling case for trading dopamine-on-demand for the deep satisfaction of making, tending, and waiting. It's also a practical playbook for families on the edge of burnout. Kay and Ginny outline how to replace screens with compelling alternatives, form a small tribe of like-minded families, and trust kids with real responsibility—steps that restore attention, confidence, and connection. If your home feels like it's speeding up while patience is wearing thin, start here: explore resources at 1000 Hours Outside, then queue the episode and share it with a friend (listen on Apple Podcasts or listen on Spotify). This is a hopeful, hands-on roadmap for resisting hurry and raising children who can notice, wait, wonder, and love well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus Sunday episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with unschooling mom Raven Kramer to make a beautifully simple case: when we let kids be kids, learning takes root. Raven shares how healing her own story shaped a “life schooling” approach where play isn't fluff - it's physics, literacy, fractions, and emotional intelligence in disguise. From board-game math and baking-as-fractions to skatepark conversations with people of all ages, Ginny and Raven reframe socialization, champion boredom as the doorway to creativity, and offer sane screen habits that put curiosity back in charge. Follow Raven on Instagram at @ravennkramer and learn more about her nature-based community at Wild School of Tampa Bay. You'll also hear practical rhythms for dual-working households, why “outside” is a classroom, and how to make homeschool more affordable—from museum discounts to the fourth-grade Every Kid Outdoors pass (link). Want to go deeper? Ginny references Peter Gray's Free to Learn and Angela Hanscom's Balanced & Barefoot . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this off-beat, surprisingly aligned episode, Ginny sits down with producer Brennan McPherson to unpack Light of the World—a hand-drawn, theater-released animated feature that tells the life of Jesus through the eyes of a teenage John. Brennan shares how a small nonprofit rallied 400 artists over four years to make a reverent, funny, deeply human film that families can actually enjoy together—because the goal isn't more screen time, it's real-life connection. From the historically plausible ages of the disciples to Studio-Ghibli-level visual care, the film becomes a coming-of-age story about courage, friendship, and choosing the harder right—exactly the kind of conversations we want after a night at the movies. See showtimes or grab tickets here: lightoftheworld.com. Brennan also shares the project's heartbeat: using beauty and simplicity to move people off devices and into embodied relationships. You'll hear how his family's six-line “Salvation Poem”—now translated into 100+ languages—became a memorable tool kids (and parents) can keep in their back pocket (salvationpoem.com). If your home values time outdoors, creativity, and the kind of stories that linger on the walk back to the car, this conversation will meet you right where you live. Light of the World is out now—make it a family outing this week: lightoftheworld.com A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Capstone Wellness - For over 24 years, Capstone has helped thousands of families on their path to healing. Learn more at  capstonewellness.com/1000hours  NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rabbits, worms, sheep…and a whole lot of hope. In this lively, can-do conversation, Ginny meets homesteader and educator Laura Cox—the new friend she made at the Homestead Festival—who shows how ordinary families can reclaim food, skills, and sanity without moving to 50 acres. Laura de-mystifies meat rabbits (hello, “bunny berries” that are cold compost and garden-ready), explains simple worm-bin systems you can feed twice a year, and shares why rabbits are the highest protein per gram of the common meats—plus how quiet, low-odor setups can work in a garage, subdivision, or even with an HOA. You'll hear how her one-income family traded grocery premiums for hands-on, joy-filled work; how agritourism, workshops, and even rabbit-poop sales (!) became a family economy; and why “learning by doing” grows confident kids and connected communities. We also roam through hair sheep and rotational grazing, a forthcoming Young Homesteader book on rabbits (with homeschool tie-ins), and the small businesses Laura spun up from her kitchen—like DIY elderberry syrup kits and a clean seasoned salt blend. It's a fresh, funny, deeply practical episode that will have you eyeing your yard, your budget, and your week with new imagination. Start with one simple win (zinnias, anyone?), then build from there. Tap the links, listen with a friend, and share with a parent who needs a hopeful on-ramp today: Cox Homestead (workshops, mentorships, farm experiences): https://cox-homestead.com Laura's Etsy shop (elderberry kits & seasoned salt): https://www.etsy.com/shop (search “Cox Homestead”) The Homestead Festival: https://www.thehomesteadfestival.com A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Capstone Wellness - For over 24 years, Capstone has helped thousands of families on their path to healing. Learn more at  capstonewellness.com/1000hours  NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a family of six points themselves south and walks the entire Pacific Crest Trail—Canada to Mexico—with kids ages 16, 14, 13, and 11? In this powerful conversation, author Vince Strawbridge ( Pretty Good at Walking ) shares the decision to trade GPAs and schedules for a five-month “classroom with no walls,” and what the trail taught them about capacity, character, and family. We get inside the real logistics—mailing food boxes, burning through shoes, racing post-office hours, learning trail lingo like hiker boxes and trail magic—and the real parenting: discerning pain vs. injury, pacing to your slowest hiker, letting your fastest lead ahead, and discovering that shared suffering forges a different kind of bond. Vince explains why southbounders see less “trail magic,” how their daily mileage jumped from 14 to 26, what night hiking felt like, and why time itself feels different after you've measured days by footsteps and first light. But this isn't just a hiking story—it's a hope story for parents. Vince describes kids who changed without a single test score; a daughter who learned she quits at 98% of a hill and now pushes the last 2%; a son who found quiet grit; and a dad who came home and rebuilt his work around simplicity because the trail widened his range for discomfort—and joy. We talk growth-through-hard-things (“soon we will be cozy and dry”), why putting yourself in the path of an adventure that's also for you is the secret sauce, and how extended family and “trail angels” were pulled into the story along the way. If you've ever wondered whether a big, out-of-the-box adventure could form your kids (and you) in ways a classroom can't—this episode will light a spark. A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Capstone Wellness - For over 24 years, Capstone has helped thousands of families on their path to healing. Learn more at  capstonewellness.com/1000hours  NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an era where smartphones slip into children's hands long before they're ready, parents are left asking the same desperate question: What should I do about my kids and technology? Dr. Jean Twenge, renowned psychologist, researcher, and author of iGen and Generations, returns to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast with a lifeline: her brand-new book Ten Rules for Raising Kids in a High-Tech World. Drawing on decades of data and her own experience raising three teens, Dr. Twenge explains why depression among teens doubled between 2011 and 2019, how smartphones rewired childhood almost overnight, and why conversations alone aren't enough. Rules, she argues, aren't restrictions—they're the guardrails that preserve sleep, mental health, independence, and joy. From the rule of “no phones in bedrooms” to “pick an age and stick with it,” Dr. Twenge outlines a blueprint every family can adapt today. She shows how saying “not yet” to screens actually says “yes” to resilience, friendships, reading, play, and confidence. This episode is both sobering and empowering, reminding parents that they're not powerless in a tech-saturated culture. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Twenge hands us the rulebook we've been waiting for.

We live in a world where every fact is at our fingertips, but what about the questions no search engine can resolve—What makes a good mother? What does the person next to me fear the most? Author Anna Mitchael joins Ginny to share insights from her book They Will Tell You The World Is Yours, a collection of short, powerful vignettes that push back on the cultural noise of “they say.” Together they explore why curiosity flourishes outdoors, how simple road trips can reshape a family, and what happens when you pause before accepting the scripts the world hands you. This episode invites you to resist the pressure to constantly perform, produce, and conform—and instead make small rebellions that open up bigger life. Through stories of aging, comparison, cubicles, canyons, and creativity, Anna and Ginny show how the questions that matter most can't be Googled but must be lived. Explore more of Anna's work here A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Capstone Wellness - For over 24 years, Capstone has helped thousands of families on their path to healing. Learn more at  capstonewellness.com/1000hours  NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us listen to music every day—but what if it could do more than just fill the silence? In this powerful conversation with father–daughter duo Mort and Sara Sherman, authors of Resonant Minds: The Transformative Power of Music One Note at a Time, we explore how music shapes brains, bonds families, and even heals communities. From lowering stress and strengthening executive function to synchronizing our brainwaves with others, music is not just entertainment—it's a tool for resilience, connection, and joy. They dive into how families can bring intention to their musical lives: building playlists for focus and calm, using rhythm to spark creativity, and transforming ordinary days into memory-rich experiences. Whether you're a lifelong musician or someone who simply hums in the car, this episode will inspire you to see music—and parenting—in a whole new light. Get their inspiring book here A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at www.cozyearth.com and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours with the code 1000HOURS. COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO  to grab one today. NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55  and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Melanie Hempe's oldest son became so addicted to video games that he dropped out of college, she realized she had unknowingly handed her child an experiment with devastating consequences. What began as “just middle school gaming” escalated into an all-consuming addiction that stole years of real life, purpose, and potential. Out of that heartbreak came ScreenStrong—a movement to help parents break free from the myths that screens are harmless fun, and to give families tools to protect childhood, rebuild connection, and raise kids who are confident, creative, and truly alive. In this gripping and hope-filled conversation, Melanie joins me to expose the hidden costs of excessive gaming and social media use, from conformity and loneliness to wasted potential and fractured family bonds. More importantly, she offers a roadmap out—practical strategies, proven resources, and a reminder that it's not too late to reroute your child's story. If you've ever felt uneasy about the role of screens in your home, this episode will give you both the courage and the clarity to choose differently. Get your copy of Kids' Brains and Screens Home Edition ⁠here⁠ Get your copy of The Adventures of Super Brain ⁠here⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you raise kids without smartphones, video games, or social media in a world where nearly everyone else is plugged in? Twins Andrew and Evan Hempe are living proof that screen-free childhoods don't leave kids behind—they launch them ahead. In this powerful and refreshing episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich welcomes Andrew and Evan to share their firsthand experience growing up differently—and why it gave them the confidence, creativity, and connection so many of their peers are missing. From conversations about dating in the digital age to battling conformity with humor and real hobbies, these 21-year-olds deliver truth with clarity and heart. They also expose the myth of the “binge gamer,” give parents permission to follow their gut, and make the case that raising screen-free kids isn't just possible—it's better. This episode is a must-listen for every parent wondering if the effort is worth it. It is. You'll walk away inspired, equipped, and ready to raise originals in a culture that desperately needs them. Get your copy of Kids' Brains and Screens Home Edition here Get your copy of The Adventures of Super Brain here *** A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at www.cozyearth.com and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours with the code 1000HOURS. COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO  to grab one today. NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55  and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Earthley - Use the code 1000hours to get 10% off your next purchase at www.earthley.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this radically honest and thought-provoking episode, Andrew Laubacher (aka ALob) returns to share the life-altering decision that changed everything: stepping away from the platforms designed to keep us addicted and unhappy. From addiction and burnout to healing and purpose, Andrew opens up about the crushing weight of social comparison, the lies of digital liberation, the trappings of pornography, and how seven days without a mirror in the woods revealed more about his worth than seven years online ever could. Now the executive director of Humanality, Andrew is leading a global movement to restore our humanity. Humanality offers tools, courses, and community for those ready to live differently. Together with host Ginny Yurich, they unpack what it means to opt out. If you've ever felt your soul is slowly being scrolled away, this conversation is a wake-up call and a way forward.

What if the key to parenting isn't molding your child into a smaller version of you—but learning to truly see them for who they are? In this deeply moving conversation, Ian Morgan Cron, bestselling author of The Road Back To You, returns to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to talk about the Enneagram, emotional self-awareness, and how these insights transform the way we parent, love, and lead. Ian shares how understanding the “shadow side” of our personalities can unlock healthier relationships, save marriages, and most importantly, help us raise children with compassion rather than control. From hilarious stories about streaking in high school to powerful reflections on his mother's larger-than-life presence, Ian's wisdom is as entertaining as it is practical. Together we explore how to pay attention, set boundaries, and embrace the unique wiring of the kids right in front of us. This is a conversation that will leave you laughing, reflecting, and rethinking what it really means to raise emotionally healthy kids in today's world. Get your copy of The Road Back To You here Get your copy of The Fix here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if Mondays became the best day of your week? That's exactly what happened when Beth Barth launched the Girls Adventure Club—a group that's taken families from scuba diving in pools to kayaking the Apostle Islands, from hike-sledding in the snow to trapeze lessons under the sky. In her podcast debut, Beth shares how a simple idea turned into a vibrant community where moms and daughters connect, inspire, and explore together—and how you can do the same where you live. This episode is a guide for parents who want their kids off screens, building friendships, and experiencing real adventure—without breaking the bank. From budget-friendly tips to practical leadership strategies, Beth proves that adventure can be as simple as a toe-dip or as grand as a world-schooling trip. Don't wait for the perfect moment—say yes, go, and watch your kids light up. Learn more about the Girls Adventure Club here Purchase the Adventure Club Leadership Guide here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when an entire generation grows up micromanaged, chauffeured, and monitored as if childhood itself were a dangerous crime? In one of the most eye-opening and hilarious episodes of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Lenore Skenazy — author of Free-Range Kids and co-founder of Let Grow — joins Ginny Yurich to expose the absurdity of today's fear-based parenting culture. With razor-sharp wit and decades of cultural insight, she dismantles the myths that keep parents locked in anxiety and kids locked out of real life. From Halloween candy scares to daycare workers logging every bathroom break, Lenore reveals how fear has crept into every corner of childhood — and why it's robbing our kids of resilience, joy, and independence. But this isn't just cultural critique — it's a blueprint for freedom. Lenore shares why worrying is just a false form of control, why exposure to reality (not more rules) is the cure for parental anxiety, and why unstructured play may be the most important “classroom” of all. Packed with humor, wisdom, and unforgettable one-liners, this conversation challenges parents to step out of the fear stew and give their kids back what they're desperate for: agency, trust, and the chance to grow. If you've ever felt torn between protecting your kids and preparing them for the real world, this episode is your wake-up call — and possibly the permission slip you've been waiting for. Learn more about Let Grow and all they have to offer here Get your copy of Free Range Kids here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the key to reclaiming our health isn't in a pill bottle, but beneath our feet? In this thought-provoking conversation, Ginny Yurich sits down with David Montgomery and Anne Biklé—renowned authors of The Hidden Half of Nature and What Your Food Ate—to uncover the forgotten connection between soil, farming, and human well-being. Together they reveal why most farmland is “sick,” why pesticides often create more pests instead of fewer, and how earthworms, microbiomes, and even flavor itself hold the blueprint for restoring vitality to our food and our bodies. This episode isn't just about farming—it's about us. From the hidden costs of hydroponics to the way ultra-processed foods hijack our natural “body wisdom,” Montgomery and Biklé show how what we eat is inseparably tied to how it was grown. Their message is both sobering and hopeful: if we change the way we treat the land, we can change the way we feel. Packed with science, story, and practical solutions, this conversation will change the way you see every bite of food—and remind you that giving nature even half a chance changes everything. Get your copy of What Your Food Ate here Get your copy of The Hidden Half of Nature here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if everything you've been taught about success, work, and happiness is incomplete? In this powerful conversation, Harvard professor and bestselling author Arthur Brooks joins Ginny Yurich on The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to share the science of happiness—and why every parent needs to hear it. With warmth, humor, and groundbreaking research, Brooks reveals why retirement shouldn't be the goal, why conflict in families is a sign of abundant love, and why your kids are shaped far more by what they see you do than by what you say. His insights on the four pillars of happiness—faith, family, friendship, and work—will challenge cultural myths and leave you rethinking the way you parent and the way you live. From the dignity of work to the difference between “deal” friends and “real” friends, Brooks offers a blueprint for building a life of deeper meaning. You'll hear surprising truths about money (hint: buying experiences beats buying stuff), why falling in love is the most entrepreneurial act you'll ever take, and how beauty and nature reawaken parts of our brain that modern life neglects. If you've ever wondered how to raise kids who thrive—and how to find more joy yourself—this episode is full of practical wisdom and hope. Get your copy of The Happiness Files here Don't miss From Strength to Strength! Get it here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four years ago, Dr. Chris Winter—the world's “Sleep Whisperer” and author of The Rested Child —became the very first guest on The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast. The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast. That one conversation sparked a journey that's now reached 550 episodes and over 12 million downloads. In this milestone episode, Dr. Winter returns to share why screens, light, and temperature may be quietly sabotaging your family's sleep—and how surprisingly simple changes can transform both rest and mood. With practical, often ingenious tips (think: lightbulb swaps, dimmer switches, and even warming a bed with water bottles), this episode will leave you feeling empowered to help your kids and yourself sleep better starting tonight. From the lost “time cues” of old TV schedules to the role of heavy work in preparing the body for deep rest, Dr. Winter reveals fascinating insights you won't hear anywhere else. He explains why the average pediatrician gets only an hour of sleep training, why excessive sleepiness in kids is often misdiagnosed, and why he believes no child should be labeled with depression or attention issues without a sleep evaluation. Whether you're a sleep science geek or a tired parent desperate for solutions, this full-circle conversation will leave you both nostalgic and newly equipped for the school year ahead.

Most people think school readiness means knowing letters, numbers, and how to sit still—but what if those are the outcomes, not the foundations? In this powerful episode, pediatric physical therapist and founder of Tots on Target, Dr. Allison Mell, reveals the “hidden” developmental milestones that set kids up for academic and social success—things like crawling, balance, crossing the midline, and even clapping games. These early motor and sensory experiences—often displaced by screens—are how the body feeds the brain. When kids skip them, it shows up in surprising ways: struggling with handwriting, falling out of chairs, or bouncing off friends in circle time. Allison and Ginny explore why these physical milestones matter so deeply and what parents can do—at any age—to help kids thrive. You'll leave this episode with practical strategies, renewed confidence, and a deeper understanding of how movement builds strong, capable learners. Whether your child is just learning to crawl or heading into middle school, this conversation is your blueprint for supporting natural development in a world that's rushing childhood.

In this urgent and eye-opening episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with Matt Britton, a pioneering voice in AI and author of Generation AI, to unravel what the rapid rise of artificial intelligence truly means for parents and the future of childhood. Matt reveals why memorization and traditional education models are becoming obsolete, and how creativity—the uniquely human skill that no AI can replicate—will be the currency of tomorrow's workforce. As AI reshapes every facet of our lives, this conversation offers critical insight into how parents can nurture resilience, imagination, and real-world problem-solving skills in their children before the AI wave changes everything. From the promise of AI-powered “second brains” to the risks of digital loneliness and emotional dependency on chatbots, Matt and Ginny explore the paradox of embracing technology while fiercely protecting human connection and creativity. This episode is a must-listen for any parent who wants to prepare their children not just to survive—but to thrive—in a world where 85% of jobs in 2030 don't even exist today. Tune in for a thoughtful, hopeful, and practical roadmap to parenting in the Age of AI. Get your copy of Generation AI here Learn more about Matt and all he has to offer here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Youth sports have evolved from casual neighborhood games to a multi-billion-dollar industry where kids are often treated as commodities. In this episode, Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski, authors of Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports, delve into how today's sports culture is pressuring kids to perform rather than enjoy play. They reflect on the rise of elite programs, the loss of amateurism, and the overwhelming influence of money on what was once a simple, joyful part of childhood. With raw honesty, they discuss the impact of this commercialization on kids' mental health, relationships, and desire to continue participating in sports. As parents, we are often caught in a cycle of pushing our kids to be the best, sometimes at the expense of their happiness and self-worth. Brian and Ed share the “silent killer” of kids' love for sports— the dreaded car ride home after the game, where criticism often replaces celebration. They discuss why it's crucial to shift the focus from winning at all costs to fostering character, emotional resilience, and healthy self-expression. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about reclaiming joy, the importance of play, and how we, as parents, can break free from the youth sports industrial complex to allow our children to truly thrive. Get your copy of Away Game here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Dr. Madeline Levine, one of the leading voices in parenting, returns for her second appearance to share vital insights on how anxiety is stunting both children and parents in today's fast-paced world. From hyper-parenting to the pursuit of perfection, Dr. Levine explores the damage done when we allow our own worries to dictate how we parent, urging us to embrace a long-term view on success. With over 45 years of experience in child development, she offers invaluable wisdom on how play, emotional intelligence, and resilience should take precedence over grades and accolades. As she puts it, “Healthy development takes more than high grades,” and “Kids are entitled to a childhood.” Dr. Levine emphasizes the crucial role parents play in fostering autonomy in their children—ultimately creating a sense of security and self-reliance that can only come from a thriving home environment. She champions the idea that enthusiasm, creativity, and a rich sense of purpose in parents are key to raising resilient, well-rounded kids. Parents, she reminds us, are entitled to a life of their own, and when they model a thriving, well-balanced existence, their children are empowered to do the same. This episode is a powerful call to shift our focus from external pressures to what really matters: the health, happiness, and well-being of our families in an uncertain world. Get your copy of Teach Your Children Well here Get your copy of Ready or Not here Get your copy of The Price of Privilege here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartfelt episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Tara Sun, author of Overbooked and Overwhelmed, shares her raw, real experience navigating the chaos of modern life. Tara's story resonates with anyone who's felt the pressure of saying "yes" to everything and how it often leads to burnout and overwhelm. She reflects on the importance of saying "no" without guilt, learning that each "yes" means saying no to something else—whether it's family time, personal rest, or sanity. Tara dives into the concept of limitations being liberating, and how the pressure to keep up with hustle culture often leaves us with little space to breathe or connect with what truly matters. With a focus on reclaiming space for what's important, Tara offers practical wisdom on how to slow down in a world that encourages constant busyness. From learning to rest in God's presence to battling social media comparison, this conversation is an empowering call to reconsider how we prioritize our time. For anyone trying to juggle life's many demands while staying grounded, this episode is for you. Tara's vulnerability and insight remind us all that we don't have to do it all—and that sometimes, saying "no" is the most powerful choice we can make. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, a favorite guest Heather Thompson Day returns for her second conversation, diving into the tough realities of childhood bullying and how we can protect our children from harm. Drawing from her own experiences, Heather discusses the impact of exclusion, the importance of empathy, and how the brand-new children's book she wrote with her daughter London called Can I Sit Here?, is helping kids understand and process loneliness and bullying. Heather also shares a unique practice she's used to track God's faithfulness, reinforcing the power of resilience and gratitude in challenging times. This episode is a reminder that as parents, we must recognize the gravity of our children's emotional struggles and step in to guide them. It's about teaching them to stand up for themselves and others, while also showing them how to be the kind of friend who sees and supports others in need. Heather offers not just stories, but actionable insights that will resonate with any parent navigating the complexities of childhood today. Get your copy of Can I Sit Here? for you and friends here Check out Kim John Payne's book Emotionally Resilient Teens and Tweens here A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at www.cozyearth.com and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours with the code 1000HOURS. COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO  to grab one today. NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bestselling novelist Amanda Dykes joins The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast for a conversation that will stir your heart, lift your eyes, and invite you to marvel again at the wonder that surrounds us. In this episode, Amanda shares the tender backstory behind her career shift from English teacher to award-winning author, and how deep grief gave way to deep creativity. We explore the making of her stunning new book A Pocketful of Wonder, a field guide for children to experience God's creation through poem, prayer, play, and music. Along the way, Amanda and Ginny talk about the courage to pursue creativity, the mysterious work of God in delays and detours, and why beauty is not frivolous—it's essential. Amanda's words are a balm, reminding us that wonder is a battle cry in a heavy world, and that attention is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. You'll hear about concrete poems, whimsical squirrel illustrations, nature's instruments, and how a single drop of rain in the desert can unleash the aroma of hope. This conversation will inspire you to step into the preposterous beauty all around—and bring your kids with you. A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS  today to get 10% off your first month. Quince - Visit www.quince.com/outside and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at www.cozyearth.com and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours with the code 1000HOURS. COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO  to grab one today. NurtureLife - Head to NurtureLife.com/1000HOURS55 and use code 1000HOURS55 for 55% off your first order PLUS free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this wide-ranging and unforgettable episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with the bold and brilliant Dr. Tom Cowan—physician, author, and longtime advocate for common sense parenting. Drawing from his new book Common Sense Child Rearing, Dr. Cowan urges parents to truly listen to their children, resist blind conformity, and reclaim their role as their child's fiercest protector. From the story of a misunderstood 7-year-old boy to hard-hitting critiques of the education and medical systems, Cowan's message is as emotionally gripping as it is mind-expanding. Together, Ginny and Dr. Cowan explore controversial but vital topics—vaccines, ultrasounds, cancer screenings, the current education system, and the radical idea that children are often right about what they need. With wisdom from Waldorf schools, Nourishing Traditions, and Ivan Illich, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about raising healthy, resilient kids in today's world. You may not agree with everything, but you'll leave this episode thinking more critically, feeling more empowered, and most importantly—more committed to being on your child's side, no matter what.

What if the decline in childhood mental health, self-regulation, and academic engagement could be traced back to a missing piece of the school day? In this powerful and passionate episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich sits down with the founding team of Say Yes to Recess, a grassroots movement turned national nonprofit fighting for more play, more time outside, and more humanity in our schools. With just 22 minutes of average daily recess—and many kids getting even less—this conversation peels back the layers of how educational priorities have shifted dangerously away from the needs of the whole child. The team shares how they went from frustrated parents to successful policy changemakers and how you can start a chapter in your own state. This is the rallying cry. Recess is not a break from learning—it is learning. Movement builds brains. Free play teaches the life skills that Fortune 500 CEOs are begging for. And the best part? Kids want to do it. Say Yes to Recess is leading the charge, and this episode shows you why the time to act is now. Visit sayyestorecess.com to learn more, donate, or launch a chapter in your state. You can also follow their movement on Instagram and Facebook @sayyestorecess. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the youth mental health crisis isn't a mystery—but a measurable, screen-driven epidemic we can reverse? In one of the most urgent and affirming conversations we've ever had, Mike McLeod, executive function specialist and founder of GrowNOW ADHD, returns for his fourth appearance on The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast. With clarity, conviction, and deep compassion for families, Mike explains why executive functioning—not grades—is the greatest predictor of life success, and how screen overuse is directly delaying the very skills kids need most: self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, and self-evaluation. The solution? Simpler than you think—and available to every family. You'll leave this episode empowered to act, not overwhelmed. We talk about why schools are broken, how parents have unintentionally become permissive, and why taking away screens isn't extreme—it's essential. Mike's new book The Executive Functioning Playbook (coming January 9) and his podcast, The ADHD Parenting Podcast, are must-follow resources. But this episode? It might just be the wake-up call that changes everything.

In this eye-opening episode, Sean Pessara of Mindful Farmer Arkansas dives into the critical need for more farmers and gardeners who are passionate about sustainable and regenerative agriculture. With a background in environmental science, Sean has dedicated his life to helping families transform their backyard gardens into thriving, productive spaces. He shares his expertise on high tunnels, soil health, and organic techniques, showing how small-scale farmers can grow food year-round—no matter the climate. From maximizing space to natural pest control, Sean offers practical tips that make farming easier, more efficient, and family-friendly. This conversation isn't just about farming—it's about building a movement. Sean's mission is to inspire families to take stewardship of their land, grow their own food, and become part of the next generation of farmers. As farming becomes more financially accessible and sustainable, this episode will spark the desire to get outside, work with the land, and bring the beauty of homegrown food to your family's table. The world needs more farmers—and it starts with you. Mindful Farmer Arkansas Website Follow Sean on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your whole life looked different just three years from now? In this moving episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with Janelle Anderson of The Haven Farmstead to share an extraordinary story of family, faith, and legacy. Janelle and her husband left behind their cattle ranch in North Dakota, sold nearly everything, and started over on raw land in Tennessee—with no power, no water, and a dream of raising their children with intention. What they've built in under three years is nothing short of remarkable. This episode is a tribute to generational resilience and bold obedience. Janelle shares how childhood lessons became lifelines, how cheese-making became ministry, and how being “forced to wait” in daily tasks invites real rest. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late—or too crazy—to change your life, this conversation will light a fire in your heart. Visit The Haven Farmstead, tune in to The Farmstead Revival Podcast, and explore the Homestead Hive to learn more. Let this episode remind you: the seeds you plant today may grow faster—and wilder—than you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the key to healthier, happier kids—and adults—wasn't hidden in a lab but buried in the soil beneath our feet? In this powerful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Amanda Argyle and Miriam Eriksson of Argyle Acres Education Foundation share their deeply personal stories of transformation—through infertility, health crises, and radical simplicity—to show how reconnecting with nature and regenerative farming can revive families from the inside out. From raw land and baby carriers to community camps and chicken-processing days, they've built a space where kids witness the rhythms of real life, discover their resilience, and fall in love with the natural world. Host Ginny Yurich guides a rich conversation about soil health, ancestral wisdom, and why death isn't something to hide from kids—but a teacher to embrace. The conversation weaves science with story, beauty with messiness, and parenting with purpose. Whether you're new to farming or just trying to make more space for nature in your family's life, this episode is a moving reminder: you don't need perfection—just the courage to begin. Learn more at @argyle_acres and @thebiohackingfamily. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast episode How to Foster Creativity in a World That Wants to Control It, Austin Kleon, author of Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work, discusses the challenges of nurturing creativity in today's highly structured, outcome-driven world. He highlights how the pressure for perfection and the desire for certainty can stifle innovation, both for adults and children. Kleon shares his belief that the magic of creativity comes from embracing uncertainty, remaining open to failure, and allowing space for experimentation. For parents, particularly, he offers insights on how to support their children's creative growth in a world where schedules, expectations, and “rules” often get in the way. In this inspiring conversation, Kleon discusses the importance of maintaining an “amateur spirit,” even as we grow older and more experienced. He urges listeners to embrace their inner beginner, whether they're parents encouraging their children's creativity or adults rediscovering their own. Creativity thrives when we stop seeking validation and instead focus on doing the work that excites us. Kleon also encourages listeners to sign up for his weekly newsletter, where he continues to share his thoughts on creativity and inspiration. Listen to the full episode now to find out how to embrace uncertainty and foster a creative mindset in both yourself and your family. Sign up for Austin's weekly newsletter here Get your copy of: Newspaper Blackout Steal Like an Artist Show Your Work Keep Going Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode, Michaeleen Doucleff returns to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to dive deep into the art of fostering independence and emotional autonomy in children. She shares transformative insights from her travels around the world, revealing how different cultures empower children by encouraging initiative rather than constantly telling them what to do. Michaeleen explains how small shifts in our parenting approach—like trusting our children to contribute meaningfully to the household—can drastically improve behavior, strengthen family bonds, and promote emotional regulation. Michaeleen discusses the importance of including children in family life and how this inclusion nurtures their sense of responsibility and belonging. From her experiences with the Maya, Inuit, and Hadza, she highlights the universal parenting practices that teach children to observe, respond, and contribute without the pressure of a chore chart or constant direction. This conversation is a must-listen for any parent who wants to build a calmer, more cooperative home while empowering their children to thrive with confidence and initiative. Michaeleen's Book: Hunt, Gather, ParentDopamine Kids Pre-order: Preorder here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Pat Flynn, author of Lean Learning, breaks down the art of "learning less to achieve more." He talks about how the traditional path of endless overthinking and consuming information often leads to inaction—and how we can combat this by embracing action, failure, and hands-on learning. With our kids growing up in an age where the pressure to be constantly learning can be overwhelming, Pat shares practical advice on how we can equip them for future careers by teaching them to stop overthinking and start doing. By focusing on real-world experience and learning through action, Pat's approach can transform how we approach both life and work. Whether it's finding meaningful careers or navigating life's changes, Pat's method helps break the cycle of fear and hesitation, encouraging us to get outside, explore, and develop the skills needed for the future. Tune in to discover how letting go of overthinking can help you—and your kids—thrive in an ever-evolving world. Get your copy of Lean Learning here Learn more about Pat and all he has to offer here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the messiness of family life is where the magic really happens? In this delightful and deeply thoughtful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich welcomes back bestselling author, lawyer, and father of four Justin Whitmel Earley for his third appearance—and it's their most heartwarming one yet. Together, they explore how to reclaim the freedom of childhood, why imaginative picture books matter (even for big kids), and how families can find rhythm and joy amid the chaos. From hilarious sibling dynamics to deeper truths about embodied spirituality, this conversation will leave you inspired to slow down, read more, and laugh at the beautiful mess of it all. Justin also shares the story behind his charming new picture book, The Big Mess: A Deliciously Funny Story of Siblings Learning to Get Along, and gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book The Body Teaches the Soul—a powerful invitation to rethink health as a blend of spiritual and physical rhythms. Whether you're a dad, mom, reader, or simply someone trying to raise whole-hearted kids, this episode is a joyful reminder: the ordinary moments are where the real stories are told. Listen now and let your imagination stretch just a little bit wider.

What if technology didn't keep kids inside—but actually helped launch them out the front door? In this powerful third conversation with COSMO Technologies CEO Russell York, we explore how family-first tech can help revive real-world childhoods, spark neighborhood friendships, and reconnect parents to peace of mind. With their newest release, the Junior Track 5, COSMO has reimagined GPS-enabled kids' watches to prioritize freedom, safety, and community. Russell shares why helicopter parenting is giving way to “satellite parenting”—a thoughtful model that allows kids to roam while still staying connected. We talk about why Big Tech has failed families, how back-to-school season is the new New Year, and what it takes to make screen-free summers actually work. Whether you're homeschooling, working full-time, or somewhere in between, this episode offers both a mindset shift and a practical tool for reclaiming childhood in the digital age. Learn more and shop at CosmoTogether.com, and don't miss the exclusive giveaway happening this week! A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Active Skin Repair: Visit ⁠www.ActiveSkinRepair.com⁠  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and their commitment to 1% for the planet and use code: 1000hours to save 20% on all Active Skin Repair products Select Quote: Head to ⁠www.selectquote.com/1000hours⁠ to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  ⁠www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS⁠  today to get 10% off your first month. Fay Nutrition: Visit ⁠www.FayNutrition.com/1000HOURS⁠  to see if you qualify for a dietitian for $0 CRU: Visit ⁠give.cru.org/hour⁠ to sign up for a $24 monthly gift, and receive a free copy of Until The Streetlights Come On Quince - Visit ⁠www.quince.com/outside⁠ and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit ⁠www.NIVapplicationbible.com ⁠if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at ⁠www.cozyearth.com⁠ and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to⁠ LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE ⁠and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at⁠ www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours⁠ with the code 1000HOURS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it look like to live a life anchored in passion, purpose, and presence—even when everything changes in an instant? In this unforgettable episode, world-renowned surfer Bethany Hamilton shares the story behind the headlines: the wild love her parents had for surfing and for nature, how she passed that passion to her own kids, and how the ocean became both playground and healer. From losing her arm at age 13 to becoming a bestselling author, mother of four, and voice of hope for millions, Bethany opens up about what truly sustains her—faith, family, and the willingness to keep showing up. Bethany and Ginny dive deep into the power of outdoor legacy, what it means to live aligned with your calling, and how we can help our kids find joy beyond screens. They talk resilience, motherhood, body surfing aunties, and why adults need passions too. You'll walk away ready to fight for what matters most—and to keep going, even when it's hard.

Can a single cup of tea shift your entire day? In one of her favorite episodes ever, Ginny sits down with herbalist and author Rachelle Robinett to explore the ancient, globally practiced art of herbalism—and why it might be exactly what our stressed-out, fast-paced culture needs. Rachelle's book, Naturally: The Herbalist's Guide to Health and Transformation, offers both a gentle invitation and a practical guide for weaving herbs into everyday life. From nervines and adaptogens to bitters and mushrooms, you'll learn how plants can support sleep, digestion, resilience, clarity, emotional balance, and so much more. This episode demystifies herbalism and proves that you don't need a homestead or decades of knowledge to start—you just need a teapot and a few minutes. Ginny shares how reading Naturally finally helped her fall in love with herbal tea (after years of resisting it!) and realize that she was already an herbalist all along. Whether you're navigating burnout, anxiety, or the desire to reconnect with nature and yourself, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered, expanded, and inspired to take one small step toward well-being. A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Active Skin Repair: Visit ⁠www.ActiveSkinRepair.com⁠  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and their commitment to 1% for the planet and use code: 1000hours to save 20% on all Active Skin Repair products Select Quote: Head to ⁠www.selectquote.com/1000hours⁠ to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  ⁠www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS⁠  today to get 10% off your first month. Fay Nutrition: Visit ⁠www.FayNutrition.com/1000HOURS⁠  to see if you qualify for a dietitian for $0 CRU: Visit ⁠give.cru.org/hour⁠ to sign up for a $24 monthly gift, and receive a free copy of Until The Streetlights Come On Quince - Visit ⁠www.quince.com/outside⁠ and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit ⁠www.NIVapplicationbible.com ⁠if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at ⁠www.cozyearth.com⁠ and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to⁠ LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE ⁠and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at⁠ www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours⁠ with the code 1000HOURS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this refreshingly honest and heartening episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich welcomes toddler expert Devon Kuntzman of Transforming Toddlerhood to unravel the chaos—and beauty—of the toddler years. With warmth and insight, Devon helps parents reframe meltdowns not as failures but as essential, biologically driven emotional releases (yes, tantrums are like emotional poops!). Together they explore how nature, connection, and curiosity can soothe both kids and caregivers in even the most exhausting moments. Whether your toddler is yelling “no,” breaking down over a cracked granola bar, or sprinting away at lightning speed, this conversation offers science-backed strategies, empathy, and a powerful reminder: this season is short, but it's shaping both you and your child. Learn why Devon says parenting toddlers is really about learning to let go, how to create emotional safety without giving up your boundaries, and why the outdoors might be your best parenting hack. Preorder her upcoming book Transforming Toddlerhood here and follow her on Instagram at @transformingtoddlerhood. Listen in and exhale. You're not alone—and you're not doing it wrong. A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:  Active Skin Repair: Visit ⁠www.ActiveSkinRepair.com⁠  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and their commitment to 1% for the planet and use code: 1000hours to save 20% on all Active Skin Repair products Select Quote: Head to ⁠www.selectquote.com/1000hours⁠ to learn more.  BetterHelp: Visit  ⁠www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS⁠  today to get 10% off your first month. Fay Nutrition: Visit ⁠www.FayNutrition.com/1000HOURS⁠  to see if you qualify for a dietitian for $0 CRU: Visit ⁠give.cru.org/hour⁠ to sign up for a $24 monthly gift, and receive a free copy of Until The Streetlights Come On Quince - Visit ⁠www.quince.com/outside⁠ and get free shipping and 365 day returns NIV Application Bible - visit ⁠www.NIVapplicationbible.com ⁠if you're looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life. Cozy Earth - Upgrade your summer sleep at ⁠www.cozyearth.com⁠ and use code OUTSIDE for 40% off their best-selling sheets, loungewear, and more. Lagoon - Go to⁠ LagoonSleep.com/OUTSIDE ⁠and take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.Use the code OUTSIDE for 15% off your first purchase Brave Books - Right now, you can get 20% off your first purchase at⁠ www.BRAVEBooks.com/1000hours⁠ with the code 1000HOURS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you spend ten years chasing a dream—only to face rejection again and again? Melissa Ferguson did just that. In this hilarious and heartfelt conversation, Melissa shares how she went from writing secretly in a Walmart-adjacent extended stay to becoming a bestselling author with multiple book-to-movie deals. She's a homesteading mom of four, a romantic comedy writer, and now a children's book author with Our Friendly Farmhouse, a stunning family-authored picture book rooted in real life. Melissa and Ginny dig into what it means to pursue creativity as a mom, why calculated risks matter, and how to build a life (and a farmhouse) one bold step at a time. From publishing realities to auction-day adrenaline to raising your neighbor's rabbits, this episode is both wildly entertaining and quietly motivating. Whether you're waiting for permission to chase a dream—or already chasing one—this is your nudge to keep going.

Are we raising children—or building résumés? In this powerful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with internationally bestselling author Carl Honoré (In Praise of Slowness, Under Pressure) to explore the dark undercurrent of modern parenting: the obsession with performance. From Baby Einstein to Mandarin in the Moses basket, today's childhood has become a race—and our kids are burning out before they even begin. Honoré calls out the rise of the “trophy child” and reveals how hyper-parenting, micromanagement, and constant comparison are robbing kids of joy, resilience, and identity. Together, Carl and Ginny unpack why slowing down isn't lazy—it's revolutionary. If you've ever questioned the pressure to do more, be more, and push harder, this episode is your permission slip to opt out. Childhood doesn't need to be upgraded. It needs to be reclaimed. ***

Why are the conversations parents care about most the ones they're told they can't have? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, board-certified pediatrician Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh returns to The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast to unpack one of the most taboo topics in modern parenting: vaccines. With decades of experience, a master's in epidemiology, and a thriving integrative practice, Dr. Warsh lays out a clear, respectful, and research-driven case for why parents deserve full transparency and freedom to ask questions—without being shamed, silenced, or dismissed. His new book, Between a Shot and a Hard Place, is an honest reckoning with what we do and don't know about the current vaccine schedule—and why that matters more than ever in an age of chronic illness and declining trust in the medical system. Ginny Yurich and Dr. Warsh navigate this sensitive terrain with balance and clarity, addressing placebo studies, long-term data gaps, liability loopholes, and the realities families face when trying to make informed choices. This episode doesn't tell you what to think—it simply invites you into the conversation most parents are already having behind closed doors. Share this one widely. It's not anti-anything. It's pro-discussion.

What happens when your life moves so fast that even a bathroom break for your toddler feels impossible? In this honest and hilarious episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich welcomes Rachelle Crawford, author of How to Be Busy, to talk about that breaking-point moment—and everything it revealed about modern motherhood, hurry culture, and the myth of doing it all. Together, they explore what it means to live well even when life is full. You'll learn why the problem isn't busyness, but the mindset of hurry. You'll hear about dropped phones, dropped boundaries, mushroom hunting metaphors, Grandma Sally's wisdom, and how to finally build margin into a chaotic season. If your calendar feels like it's running you—and not the other way around—this episode is your lifeline.