Biophilic Solutions

Let's face it. Our waste habits are, well, pretty wasteful. Every single day, more than 27,000 trees are cut down just to make toilet paper. Meanwhile, the average disposable diaper takes over 500 years to decompose in a landfill, all while leaching harmful plastics and chemicals into the environment. And that's not even counting other single-use sanitary products like tampons, pads, and wipes. Put simply, our throwaway culture is a serious environmental problem.Enter today's guest: Miki Agrawal. A bold entrepreneur and creative disruptor, Miki has built a career out of challenging the status quo. She's the founder of groundbreaking companies like Thinx (revolutionary period underwear), TUSHY (modern bidets), and her latest venture, Hiro Diapers, a game-changing product designed to break down in landfills using fungi-powered decomposition technology. Hiro represents a major step forward in the battle against plastic waste, starting with a natural end-of-life solution for one of the most essential (and wasteful) products in parenting.In this conversation, we explore the hidden environmental costs of traditional diapers, the importance of slowing down to meet the moment, and why nature (hello, mushrooms!) holds the key to designing smarter, bolder everyday essentials.Show NotesHiro DiapersTUSHY BidetsAbout Miki AgrawalFour SigmaticPacha's Pajamas: A Story Written By NatureDo Cool Shit: Quit Your Day Job, Start Your Own Business, and Live Happily Ever After by Miki AgrawalDisrupt-Her: A Manifesto for the Modern Woman by Miki AgrawalBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

On today's episode, we're delving into the growing epidemic of loneliness, examining its root causes, far-reaching impacts, and what it will take to rebuild our social fabric. For this important and timely conversation, we were thrilled to be joined by Radha Agrawal, author of the bestselling book Belong: Find Your People, Create Community & Live a More Connected Life. Radha is also the Co-founder, CEO, and Chief Community Architect of Daybreaker, a global wellness movement that brings nearly half a million people together globally through early-morning, sober dance parties. In addition, Radha leads the Belong Institute and the Belong Center, two groundbreaking initiatives dedicated to addressing loneliness through community-building and laying the foundation for a wider culture of belonging.Throughout this conversation, we explore the essential human need for connection, the dangers of hyper-individualism, and how modern life, including our increasing disconnection from nature, has contributed to widespread feelings of alienation. Radha shares powerful insights on how rebuilding community and reestablishing our relationship with the natural world can help us reclaim joy, purpose, and a true sense of belonging. This is a conversation filled with practical tools and deep inspiration for anyone seeking to reconnect: with others, with nature, and with themselves.ShownotesBelong: Find Your People, Create Community & Live a More Connected Life by Radha AgrawalRadha Agrawal WebsiteDaybreaker | Wake Up & DanceBelong CenterBelong InstituteDr. Julianne Holt-LunstadThe Power of Belonging: How Ending Loneliness Will Save Our Planet (SXSW)Biophilic Solutions WebsiteBiophilic Solutions on InstagramKeywords: loneliness, loneliness epidemic, community, connection, community building, Radha Agrawal, nature, biophilia, biophilic, disconnection, climate, climate change, Daybreaker, belongingBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

For many people, work simply isn't working anymore. Wages have stagnated while the cost of living continues to rise. Endless hours in front of a screen leave us burnt out. More often than not, the labor we do feels disconnected from any real purpose. But what if there was another way? Imagine a future where small communities live in harmony with the land, and the work we do is rooted in care for each other, for the earth, and for ourselves. It may sound idealistic and overly simplistic, but isn't there something undeniably appealing about that vision?Today, we're thrilled to be speaking with Megan Leatherman, founder of A Wild New Work, a career development agency with a refreshing twist. Megan helps her clients uncover their passions and craft more fulfilling professional lives, while also guiding them to reconnect with nature, align with the rhythms of the seasons, and trust their own inner wisdom.In this conversation, we explore what's broken about our current work culture, how we arrived here, and how we might begin to cultivate meaningful, grounded lives in a world shaped by capitalism and social media.Show NotesA Wild New WorkA Wild New Work: The PodcastFollow A Wild New Work on InstagramCaliban and the Witch: Women, The Body, and Primitive Accumulation by Silvia FedericiComposting CapitalismRise Up RootedBiophilic Solutions We'd love to hear from you!Keywords: work, capitalism, history, nature, ancestors, modern work, change, feudalism, community, sustainability, organized labor, socialism, community, adulthood, land connection, cultural shifts, personal growth, nature, aliveness, uncertaintyBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Today, we're exploring the landscapes of the future with Stacy Passmore and Diane Lipovsky, co-founders of the award-winning landscape architecture studio, Superbloom. Stacy and Diane are redefining the role of landscape architecture by designing spaces that foster meaningful connections between people and the land. From transforming schoolyards and government buildings to rewilding a 50-acre golf course and planning solar parks, their work centers on creating climate-resilient, ecologically vibrant spaces.Community engagement is at the heart of Superbloom's mission. Stacy and Diane believe that when local communities understand the vital role of biodiversity, native habitats, and sustainable practices, they become the land's most powerful stewards. Join us as we delve into the evolving world of landscape architecture, the role of storytelling in inspiring action, and the innovative projects Stacy and Diane are most excited to bring to life.Show NotesSuperbloomSuperbloom | Field NotesSuperbloom's Stacy Passmore and Diane Lipovsky on Resilient and Culturally Enriching Environments (Madame Architect)Boulder County Taps Superbloom to Create First-of-its-Kind Toolkit to Integrate Nature into Urban Planning Superbloom on Instagram The Well-Placed Weed: The Bountiful Life of Ryan Gainey (Vimeo)Keywords: landscape architecture, biophilic design, sustainability, community engagement, water resilience, education, cultural perspectives, design firm, ecological design, urban planning, community engagement, water restoration, stream restoration, municipal collaboration, landscape design, biodiversity, native plants, environmental education, project management, sustainabilityBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

We're living in an era largely defined by consumerism, social media addiction, climate change, and political unrest. Given all of that, it's really no surprise that many of us feel overwhelmed, burned out, and disconnected.That's why, today, we're thrilled to welcome Douglas Rushkoff, an award-winning author and documentarian, who was named one of the world's ten most influential intellectuals by MIT. Douglas's work tackles some of the most pressing issues of our time like technology, capitalism, consumerism, and human nature. He argues that modern technology isolates us instead of bringing us together, with social media algorithms and corporate interests chipping away at the traits that make us most human. To push back, he calls for greater focus on building strong local communities, mutual aid, and pushing back against a digital landscape that feels like it just takes and takes and takesIn this conversation, we delve into themes of power, agency, and community, discussing why awe may be the pinnacle of human experience, the importance of embracing mortality, and how localism can cultivate deeper connections and more resilient societies.Show NotesTeam Human PodcastTeam Human by Douglas RushkoffSurvival of the Richest: Escape Fantasies of the Tech Billionaires by Douglas RushkoffAbout Douglas RushkoffDouglas Rushkoff SubstackKeywords: Douglas Rushkoff, biophilia, technology, capitalism, nature, collaboration, competition, human connection, social media, power, agency, awe, community, local, localism, built environment, mortality, nature social constructionBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

This week, we're sitting down with Rebecca Magee to discuss the importance of seasonal living, the need to honor periods of rest, and how reconnecting with nature can lead to a more thoughtful and invigorating way of life. Rebecca is the founder of Sister Seasons,  an impact company that helps changemakers work with nature's cycles to develop the skills they need to be thriving, regenerative leaders on a rapidly changing planet. With a background in social impact and women's leadership at companies like EILEEN FISHER and Echoing Green, Rebecca explores the deep connections between gender equity and climate change, highlighting how women are disproportionately affected by environmental challenges. She shares insights on embracing natural cycles—both in nature and within ourselves—to foster resilience, avoid burnout, and promote personal and collective sustainability. We really enjoyed this thought-provoking conversation on balance, sustainability, and the wisdom of the seasons–and we hope you will, as well. Show Notes:The Biophilic Leadership SummitSister SeasonsSister Seasons NewsletterField Notes | FREE Introductory Course from Sister SeasonsWintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine MayKeywords: Sister Seasons, gender equity, climate change, menstrual cycles, sustainability, women's wellbeing, regenerative cycles, cultural perspectives, wintering, burnout, winter phase, cycles, leadership, self-care, nature, anxiety, regenerative leadership, mindfulness, cultural reflections, responsive leadershipThe Biophilic Leadership Summit is the only multi-day conference entirely focused on biophilic projects, research & principles, bringing together top industry thought-leaders in an intimate natural setting to network, build partnerships and learn from each other. Join us in Serenbe for the 7th Annual Summit on March 30 - April 1, 2025. Register today!Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

As we launch Season 5, we're taking a moment to reflect on the vital role of nature in uncertain times. Our connection to the natural world isn't just about aesthetics – it profoundly shapes our mental health, strengthens community bonds, and influences our cultural identities. In this episode, we explore how technology can either distract us or serve as a tool for deeper engagement and examine how our consumption habits affect our relationship with nature and each other. In a world of constant change, how can we foster a future where both nature and human connection flourish? Join Monica and Jennifer for this essential conversation.Questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at contact@biophilicsolutions.comShow NotesJoin Monica & Jennifer  at the The Biophilic Leadership Summit, March 30 - April 1 in SerenbeBiophilia Discovers Its Missing Father (The Hybrid Intelligencer)‘'This is garbage' – Step aside influencers, we're now in the era of de-influencing (NPR)Keywords: biophilia, nature, community, technology, overconsumption, mental health, hope, spirituality, design, environmental awareness, empathy, DEI, nature, cycles, consciousness, indigenous wisdom, anti-influencer, biophilia, human connection, audience engagementThe Biophilic Leadership Summit is the only multi-day conference entirely focused on biophilic projects, research & principles, bringing together top industry thought-leaders in an intimate natural setting to network, build partnerships and learn from each other. Join us in Serenbe for the 7th Annual Summit on March 30 - April 1, 2025. Register today!Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Season 5 of Biophilic Solutions premieres on Tuesday, March 4th! This season, we're taking a broader approach to biophilia—going beyond architecture and design to examine nature's role in culture, politics, and spirituality. We'll tackle pressing issues like the rise of AI, the influence of social media, and the current political climate, all through the lens of nature and balance. With a focus on hope and possibility, we'll paint a vision of a biophilic future—one that fosters connection, trust, and harmony.Join us as we seek answers and reimagine a world where nature guides the way forward!Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

This year, we're embracing the slower pace of winter and our mantra is less rush, more cheer. More time with family and friends, more warm cups of tea, more long walks in the woods, and of course more time spent curled up with a good book. So, as the holiday season approaches, we're back with more nature-inspired and uplifting reads. So whether you're looking for the perfect gift for someone special in your life or are in need of some inspiration yourself, keep listening. Show Notes:The Biophilic Leadership SummitLess Rush, More Cheer: What We're Reading This Winter (Full List on Bookshop)How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David BrooksA Philosophy of Walking by Frederic Gros and John HoweInfectious Generosity: The Ultimate Idea Worth Spreading by Chris AndersonSlow Down: The Degrowth Manifesto by Kohei SaitoAll the Beauty in the World: THe Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me by Patrick BringleyRestorative Cities: Urban Design for Mental Health and Wellbeing by Jenny Roe and Layla McCayGeorgia O'Keeffe & Henry Moore at the Museum of Fine Arts BostonBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Does the natural world bear witness to history? What lessons can nature teach us about survival, adaptation, and connection? This week, we're exploring those questions and so much more alongside Erin Sharkey. Erin Sharkey is the editor of A Darker Wilderness: Black Nature Writing From Soil To Stars, an acclaimed anthology that weaves together history, personal narrative, and imaginative storytelling in order to explore the profound relationship between nature and Black identity. Each essay is connected through the use of archival objects, anchoring each piece to a shared past and nodding to the complicated history of nature writing as a discipline. Erin is a writer, arts and abolition organizer, cultural worker, and film producer based in Minneapolis. She is the cofounder, with Junauda Petrus, of an experimental arts collective called Free Black Dirt and is the producer of film projects including Sweetness of Wild and Small Business Revolution. Erin is also a founding coop member of the Fields at Rootsprings, a retreat center that focuses on healing, learning, and connection for individuals, community and Earth and that centers BIPOC and LGBTQ+ artists, activists, and healers.In this episode, we delve into the inspiration behind A Darker Wilderness, the intersections of race and ecology, and how Erin's creative practice brings healing and hope to the communities she serves.Show NotesA Darker Wilderness: Black Nature Writing From Soil to StarsErin Sharkey on InstagramErin Sharkey WebsiteThe Fields at RootspringsRochester Arts CenterBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

This week, we're diving deep into the interconnectedness of human health and planetary health. We know that nature provides us with a myriad of health benefits, both as individuals and socially. However, challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss also pose a dire threat to our species, from disease proliferation, unstable food systems, and even increasing crime rates. Our guest today is Dr. Howard Frumkin. Dr. Frumkin is Professor Emeritus of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences at the University of Washington and serves as the  Director of the Trust for Public Land's Land & People Lab. Dr. Frumkin is the co-editor of Planetary Health: Protecting Nature to Protect Ourselves.In this episode, we discuss human habitats that are better for people and the planet, rectifying the gap between human progress and planetary degradation, and the inspiring, important work that Dr. Frumkin is doing at the Land & People Lab. ShownotesPlanetary Health: Protecting Nature to Protect Ourselves edited by Samuel Myers and Howard Frumkin Trust for Public LandThe Land & People LabAwe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher KeltnerVitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature Rich Life by Richard LouvNational Nature Assessment COP29: What you need to know about the global climate summitKey Words: climate, climate change, biodiversity, biodiversity loss, biophilia, biophilic design, public land, green space, climate solutions, local solutions, local politics, Howard Frumkin, nature, national nature assessment Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Is the idea of pristine, untouched nature a misguided fantasy? Are any animals truly wild on a planet so dominated by human impact? And while we're on the topic - what do we mean by wildness in the first place? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that redefines our relationship with nature and encourages us to rethink our place within it.This week, our guest is celebrated science writer Emma Marris, author of Wild Souls: Freedom and Flourishing in the Non-Human World. Emma's work has appeared in publications like National Geographic, The New York Times, and the Atlantic. She is also the author of Rambunctious Garden: Saving Nature in a Post-Wild World. Show NotesEmma Marris WebsiteWild Souls: Freedom and Flourishing in the Non-Human World by Emma MarrisRambunctious Garden: Saving Nature in a Post-Wild World by Emma MarrisBeloved Beasts: Fighting for Life in the Age of Extinction by Michelle Nijhuis Opinion: New York is Wilder Than You Think by Emma Marris (New York TImes)Nature Doesn't Care Where a Species is From by Emma Marris (The Atlantic)Key Words: Animals, Animal Rights, Animal Welfare, Nature, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Climate, Climate Change, Wildness, Wilderness, Ecosystem, Emma Marris, Author, Science, Nature Journalism, Environment, Environmental Philosophy Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

We know that many animals possess “human-like” qualities: the ability to play, sustain friendships, mate for life, and even reflect on the past. But what should we actually do with that information? That's the crucial question that Brandon Keim poses in his latest book Meet the Neighbors: Animal Minds and Life in a More-Than Human World. Brandon is a journalist who specializes in science, nature, and animals. His work has appeared in publications like National Geographic, The New York Times, The Atlantic, and WIRED. In this conversation, we explore questions of what we owe animals, the concept of animal personhood and what legal rights animals should be entitled to, and how we can have nuanced conversations about all of these issues. Show NotesMeet the Neighbors: Animal Minds and Life in a More-Than Human World by Brandon KeimBrandon Keim WebsiteSubscribe to Brandon's SubstackNonhuman Rights ProjectBooks by Richard LouvKey Words: Animals, Animal Welfare, Animal Rights, Nature, Nature Based Solutions, Biophilia, Biophilic, Animal Personhood, Zoo, Animal Intelligence, ScienceBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

With the rise of suburban sprawl and city planning that has prioritized car travel above all else, modern American cities seriously lack comfortable walking and biking infrastructure. It's a massive issue - but solutions do exist and importantly, those solutions are decidedly doable. Today we are so thrilled to be speaking with Jeff Speck, a city planner, who is widely known for his work advocating for and creating more walkable cities. His book, Walkable City, first published in 2012, has been translated into seven languages and is the best selling city planning book of the 21st century. Walkable City is also a winner of the Green Prize for Sustainable Literature.Jeff believes that a thriving city is a walkable city, where cars are instruments for freedom but aren't necessary for the day-to-day basics of living. We would also add that walkable cities are fundamentally biophilic because livability and wellness are at the core of biophilia. In this episode, we chat with Jeff about making cities more walkable, the economic benefits of walkable cities, and demanding more of our environments. Shownotes Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time 10th Anniversary Edition by Jeff SpeckThe Smart Growth Manual by Jeff SpeckWalkable City Rules by Jeff SpeckSuburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Dream by Jeff Speck The walkable city (TED Talk)4 ways to make a city more walkable (TED Talk)Street Fight: Handbook for an Urban Revolution by Janette Sadik-Khan and Seth SolomonowConfessions of a Recovering Engineer by Charles L. MarohnKilled by a Traffic Engineer by Wes Marshall Andres Duany: Principles of New Urbanism (YouTube)Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Mushrooms are fascinating. They're not quite plants and they're not quite animals. Unique and charming mushroom caps are just the fruit of a massive, interconnected mycelium network. And there are millions of mushroom species yet to be discovered. In this episode, Gregory & Emily Han share the mysterious world of mushrooms. They're the co-authors of Mushroom Hunting: Forage for Fungi and Connect with the Earth, a wonderfully accessible pocket guide for identifying common mushrooms and cultivating the joy of discovery. With Emily & Gregory as our guides, we learn about mushroom hunting as a mindfulness practice, why you don't have to harvest or forage to enjoy the simple pleasure of looking, and the mental health benefits of staying curious. So, let's hit the trails and see what we can find. Show NotesMushroom Hunting: Forage for Fungi and Connect with the Earth Wild Drinks & Cocktails: Handcrafted Squashes, Shrubs, Switchels, Tonics, and Infusions to Mix at HomeWild Remedies: How to Forage Healing Foods and Craft Your Own Herbal MedicineCreative Spaces: People, Homes, & Studios to InspireEmily Han WebsiteEmily Han InstagramGregory Han WebsiteGregory Han InstagramKey Words: Mushroom, Fungi, Mycelium, Foraging, Harvesting, Nature, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Wellness, Mindfulness, Pocket NatureBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

What would you think if your doctor wrote you a prescription to take a walk outside? To visit an art museum? To take a yoga class? It may sound unconventional, but the practice of prescribing nonmedical interventions to improve health, known as social prescribing, is becoming more and more commonplace. This week, we're chatting with Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. With Julia as our guide, we'll explore the profound relationship between environment and wellness, the amazing health outcomes of social prescriptions, and the healthcare professionals at the forefront of this growing movement. In a busy world, where so many of our ailments are lifestyle based, social prescribing helps connect us back to the things that make us human. Show NotesThe Connection Cure: he Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging by Julia HotzSocial Prescribing WebsiteYou're Not Sick – Your Environment Is (Slate)The Connection Cure explores social prescriptions to improve mental health (NPR)Key Words: healthcare, public health, preventative medicine, nature, biophilia, biophilic design, culture, art, wellness, social prescribing, loneliness, health, lifestyle, mental health Biophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Wellness is a buzzword that gets thrown a lot these days - but at its core, what does wellness really mean? And how do we design homes, towns, and entire cities where the wellness of residents is a top priority? In this special episode of Biophilic Solutions, we're sharing Dr. Phill Tabb's author talk from the Biophilic Leadership Summit, focusing on his latest book, Wellness Architecture and Urban Design, co-authored with Lahra Tatriele. In this talk, Phill provides some helpful definitions of wellness and demonstrates how certain design choices lay the groundwork for a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Wellness Architecture and Urban Design will be available for pre-order on August 16, 2024. Show NotesWellness Architecture and Urban Design by Phillip James Tabb and Lahra TatrielePresentation SlideshowGlobal Wellness InstituteMini-Forest Revolution: Using the Miyawaki Method to Rapidly Restore the World by Hannah LewisSerenbeTerra School at SerenbeFivelements Retreat BaliKey Words: wellness, urban planning, urban design, biophilic design, biophilia, wellness real estate, real estate, nature, climate change, climate solutions, architecture, green architectureBiophilic Solutions is available wherever you get podcasts. Please listen, follow, and give us a five-star review. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn and learn more on our website. #NatureHasTheAnswers

Today's guest, Hannah Lewis, is on a mission to restore biodiversity in our towns and cities by planting native trees, pollinators, and shrubs on abandoned lots, degraded land, and in backyards. In her acclaimed new book, Mini-Forest Revolution, Hannah delves into the science behind the Miyawaki method of reforestation, which prioritizes native plants that grow quickly and create microclimates with incredible benefits like cooling urban heat islands, establishing wildlife corridors, and building soil health. The best part? Their small size means that basically anyone can plant a mini-forest. In this episode, we discuss the origins of the Miyawaki method, explore examples throughout the world, and consider how organizations might come together to truly create a mini-forest revolution.Show NotesRenewing the Countryside Mini-Forest Revolution: Using the Miyawaki Method to Rapidly Restore the WorldBiodiversity for a Livable Climate Hannah Lewis WebsiteMaking a Mini-Forest DocumentaryKeywords: Biodiversity, Biophilia, Climate, Ecosystems, Forest, Hannah Lewis, Mini-Forest, Miyawaki Forest, Paris, Trees, Vegetation

In this episode of Biophilic Solutions, we are presenting a Fireside Chat recorded live at the 2024 Biophilic Leadership Summit, a multi-day conference for leaders in the Biohpilic world to come together, share ideas, and learn from one another. This features Serenbe founder, Steve Nygren, moderating a conversation with Ryan Gravel, Atlanta BeltLine creator, and Michael Phillips, President of Jamestown. Ryan discusses the process behind developing the BeltLine and explains how incorporating biophilia in Atlanta's architecture has and will continue to help change the city for the better. Similarly, Michael shares his perspective as a key player in the development of Ponce City Market and other major real estate found along NYC's The High Line, specifically highlighting how nature plays a key role in his decision to transform cities all over the world. Listen in to hear about their unique experiences with sustainable urban development and how incorporating biophilic principles into our cities promotes community, connectivity, and wellness. Links: Jamestown PropertiesMichael Phillips BioPonce City MarketThe High LineRyan Gravel BookRyan Gravel WebsiteThe BeltLine

Hello! Monica and Jennifer here, back yet again with some of our favorite books from the past year. We think that there is no better way to enjoy the summer months than by unwinding with a good book and we've got just that. Our picks range in subject matter, some talk about mental health, while others discuss architecture and design, but they all place importance on our natural environment. Especially in this busy, digital world we live in, taking time to reconnect with our roots (literally) promotes wellbeing and allows us to live our best, most fulfilled lives. So, buckle up and get ready to find your next summer read in today's episode!Show Notes:The Nature of Our Cities by Nadina GalleThe Connection Cure by Julia HotzHumanise: A Maker's Guide to Building Our World by Thomas HeatherwickThe Light Eaters by Zoe SclangerLife as We Know It (Can Be) by Bill WeirThe Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan

Old Growth Forests, natural forests that have grown undisturbed over a long period of time, offer a wide variety of benefits including storing more carbon and nitrogen than typical forests, providing a unique structure that supports rich ecosystems, and offering an example of what nature looks like when it flourishes on its own. Unfortunately, due in large part to human intervention, these old forests are hard to come by - but our guest today wants to change that. Joan Maloof is Professor Emeritus of Biology at Salisbury University and the Founder of the Old Growth Forest Network, the only national network of protected, old-growth, native forests in the United States. The organization's goal is to locate and designate at least one protected old forest in every U.S. county that has the right climate to sustain a forested area. In this conversation, Monica and Jennifer chat with Joan about her journey to founding the Old Growth Forest network, the intricate and rich ecosystems that these old forests support, and beauty as a catalyst for positive change.Show NotesThe Old Growth Forest NetworkAbout Joan MaloofFind a ForestNominate a ForestVolunteer with the Old Growth Forest NetworkNature's Temples: The Complex World of Old Growth Forests by Joan MaloofAmong the Ancients: Adventures in Eastern Old Growth Forests by Joan MaloofTeaching the Trees: Lessons from the Forest by Joan Maloof 

The smart cities movement, which seeks to optimize public wellbeing through the use of technology and data, and the biophilic cities movement are happening at the same time - but it rarely feels like these two movements are working together towards a common goal. Our guest today, Dr. Nadina Galle, hopes to change that. Nadina is an ecological engineer who studies emerging technologies that can enhance nature in urban environments, a concept she calls the Internet of Nature (ION). Her forthcoming book, "The Nature of Our Cities: Harnessing the Power of the Natural World to Survive a Changing Planet", offers insight and examples of how nature benefits when we use new technologies the right way. In this episode, we chat with Nadina about her impressive body of work and dive into some examples - from emailing and texting trees to AI robots that can actually perform a controlled burn with less smoke.Show NotesDr. Nadina GallePre-order The Nature of Our Cities: Harnessing the Power of the Natural World to Survive a Changing PlanetThe Internet of Nature (ION)Nature Has The Answers with Monica Olsen and Jennifer Walsh of Biophilic Solutions (Internet of Nature Podcast)How Central Park Keeps New Yorkers Healthy with Jennifer Walsh of Biophilic Solutions (Internet of Nature Podcast)Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv 

In the lives of many humans, deer occupy a really fascinating middle ground between so many binaries: domestic and wild, familiar and alien, beautiful and pest. They're also, interestingly, the only large mammal that seems to thrive in human-dominated environments. So, what exactly is going on with deer? On today's episode of the podcast, we're joined by Age of Deer author Erika Howsare to discuss the role that deer play in human life - from mythology to natural history to science - and what these enigmatic creatures can teach us about our own relationship to wildness.Erika Howsare is a writer and journalist based in Charlottesville, Virginia. Her new book, The Age of Deer, has been hailed as a “masterpiece” by the Washington Post. Show NotesThe Age of Deer by Erika HowsareIf You See a Deer PodcastAbout ErikaDeer: friend or foe? Or how about both? - Washington Post book reviewFrom endangered to cuddly to ‘pests': What the Age of Deer says about the human mind - LA Times book Review

Today's episode is a great example of using your unique skills to amplify your impact. This week, Monica is chatting with Atlanta-based writer Austin Louis Ray, who has contributed to publications like Rolling Stone, GQ, Creative Loafing, and Eater, just to name a few. He is also the publisher of How I'd Fix Atlanta, a seasonal collection of essays from Atlanta natives about the action steps they would take to improve their city. Topics include Biophilic Solutions favorites like walkability, wildlife in the city, supporting pollinator habitats, clean energy, and more. The conversation today, however, really revolves around how Austin does it: how he finds his writers, how he raises money to pay those writers well, and how he uses the How I'd Fix Atlanta series to build awareness at the city council and beyond.  Show NotesAbout Austin L. RayHow I'd Fix AtlantaSupport How I'd Fix AtlantaFollow Austin on XPhoto Credit: Jason Travis Climate ConfidentWith a new episode every Wed morning, the Climate Confident podcast is weekly podcast...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

It's easy to think that business interests are diametrically opposed to environmental progress - and in many cases, you wouldn't be wrong. However, meaningful evidence suggests that many businesses would actually improve their bottom line if they adopted more sustainable practices. Enter today's guest, David S. Eady, the Director of Industry Engagement at Georgia Tech, a co-appointment from the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business and the university's Scheller School of Business. In this role, David establishes relationships with local business leaders in order to help them achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, a target set by Drawdown Georgia. In his (limited) spare time, David also serves as the mayor of Oxford, Georgia, where his lifelong career in environmentalism has inspired a number of important sustainability initiatives. In this interview, Monica catches up with David about the power of collective action and partnership, measuring impact over time, and meeting business leaders where they are. Show NotesAbout David EadyDrawdown Georgia Business CompactDrawdown GeorgiaRay C. Anderson Center for Sustainable BusinessOxford GA Official City WebsiteBiophilic Solutions | Shifting to a Green Economy with Edward B. BarbierKey Words: Climate Change, Climate Action, Environmental Issues, Corporate Responsibility, Georgia Tech, GA Tech, David S. Eady, Drawdown, Drawdown GA, Ray C. Anderson, Carbon, Carbon Emissions, Biophilia, Biophilic Design 

What does it really mean when we talk about reconnecting with nature? To actually connect with nature, is it enough to simply get outside? Who speaks for the rights of nature to remain undisturbed? These are just a few of the compelling questions raised by our guest today, Dr. Karen Lloyd. Karen is the author of acclaimed book Abundance: Nature in Recovery and is a lecturer at the University of Lancaster, as well as writer in residence at the university's Future Places Institute. Her work largely explores themes like abundance, restoration and repair in the natural world.In this episode, we chat with Karen about a wide range of issues including habitat loss in her native Lake District, why the tendency to shift our baseline isn't helping us in the climate fight, the city that has declared pollinators as citizens, and how we can meaningfully re-entangle ourselves with the natural world. Show NotesAbout Karen Lloyd (University of Lancaster)Karen Lloyd WebsiteAbundance: Nature in Recovery by Karen LloydAre You Suffering From Shifting Baseline Syndrome? (Earth.Org)Sweet City: Defeating the City-Nature Antagonism (Congress for the New Urbanism)Hyperobjects: Philosophy and Ecology After the End of the World by Tim Morton Follow Karen on Facebook and XKey Words: Nature, Nature Based Solutions, University of Lancaster, Lake District, English Lake District, Pollinators, Pollinator Habitats, Hyperobject, Climate, Climate Change, Climate Solutions, Biophilia, Biophilic Design 

Time and time again, we've seen that spending time in nature has profound effects on our physical and mental wellbeing, but did you know that the outdoors are also uniquely suited for imparting leadership skills? This week, we're chatting with Sandy Colhoun, the President of NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), a global nonprofit wilderness school that is dedicated to stewardship & sustainability, diversity in the outdoors, education, leadership, safety, and community. Their programs range from expeditions for young students and semester-away programs to executive leadership and even NASA training courses. In this conversation, we chat with Sandy about his own formative experience in a NOLS program, discovering yourself in the wild, and we define a core tenet of the NOLS philosophy, expedition behavior.Show NotesNOLSAbout Sandy ColhounNOLS Stewardship & SustainabilityNOLS Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion NOLS Programs & CoursesResourcesFollow NOLS on InstagramChattahoochee Hills Charter SchoolWalk Your Way Calm: A Guided Journal for Uncluttering Your Mind with Every Step by Jennifer WalshKey Words: NOLS, Outdoor Education, Leadership, Outdoor Adventure, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Nature Based Solutions, Nature Based Learning, Wilderness, Wilderness Medicine

E.O. Wilson once said, “if insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos”- and he wasn't wrong. In fact, our entire food system depends on the energy that tiny bugs transfer to vertebrates. So, what's the issue? Insects themselves depend on native plants and larger portions of our outdoor spaces have been overtaken by non-native, invasive species and resource-intensive, environmentally futile lawns. It sounds dire, but there are plenty of solutions according to today's guest Douglas Tallamy, the T. A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. Dr. Tallamy has dedicated much of his career to raising awareness about the significance of native plants and outlining the simple, common-sense solutions that everyone can use to improve biodiversity in their own backyard. In this conversation, we chat with Doug about the promise of keystone species, the amazing progress he's made reintroducing native plants on his own Pennsylvania property, and the nonprofit he founded to encourage private landowners to join the movement.Show NotesAbout Douglas TallamyHomegrown National ParkHomegrown National Park: Native Plant Resource DirectoryBringing Nature Home by Douglas W. TallamyThe Living Landscape by Rick Darke and Douglas W. TallamyNature's Best Hope by Douglas W. TallamyThe Nature of Oaks by Douglas W. TallamyMeet the Ecologist Who Wants You to Unleash the Wild on Your Backyard (Smithsonian)Key Words: Native Plants, Pollinator Garden, Oak Trees, Keystone Species, Ecosystem, Ecosystem Restoration, Biodiversity, Biodiversity Crisis, Douglas Tallamy, Doug Tallamy, Food System, Biophilia, Biophilic Design 

Our guest today, Shelby Stanger, believes that a little bit of outdoor adventure is the key to a full and happy life. In fact, Shelby credits her own experiences surfing and escaping her comfort zone with catapulting her into a totally new life path. Today, Shelby is the host of the Wild Ideas Worth Living podcast and the author of Will To Wild: Adventures Big and Small to Change Your Life, a field guide of sorts for anyone interested in seeking more adventure. The best part? For Shelby, deep transformation doesn't require an expensive retreat or tons of self-help books - simply getting outside on a consistent basis can completely shift your perspective and lead to meaningful growth.In this episode, we chat with Shelby about the power of awe, a few particularly inspiring stories from her amazing book (seriously - we can't recommend it enough!) and the magic you find out on the trails. Show NotesWill to Wild: Adventures Big and Small to Change Your LifeWild Ideas Worth Living PodcastAbout Shelby StangerShelby Stanger on InstagramKey Words: Nature, Adventure, Wildness, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Wellness, Self Help, Recreation, Outdoor Recreation, Surfing, Surf, Nature, Nature Based Solutions

Our guest today, Robert Hammond, has dedicated his life to creating vibrant public spaces that foster human connection, wellbeing, and bring out the best in our communities. In the late 90's, Robert, alongside business partner Joshua David, co-founded New York City's iconic High Line, transforming an abandoned rail line into a lush greenway that connects 1.5 miles of Manhattan. After over two decades at The High Line, Robert took on a new role as President and Chief Strategy Officer at Therme US, a global company that is revolutionizing the ancient practice of thermal bathing in order to bring wellness to people from all walks of life. In this episode, we chat with Robert about his incredible career, the importance of public spaces that foster social infrastructure, and his ultimate goal to democratize wellness (and make it a little more fun in the process).Show NotesThe High LineHigh Line Co-Founder Robert Hammond to join Therme GroupTherme Group: A Global Wellbeing LeaderTherme Sustainable TechnologyA magical, green walk along Paris' Promenade Plantee (Guardian)Robert Hammond on InstagramKey Words: High Line, Friends of the High Line, New York, New York City, Green Infrastructure, Social Infrastructure, Therme, Thermal Bathing, Wellness, Biophilia, Biophilic, Nature Based Solutions, Nature

Thoughtful and creative design can change the world, from the products we use every day to innovative and climate-resilient buildings, to entire cities that prioritize the health and vitality of the people who live in them. Our guest today is Dr. Ellen Bassett, the John Portman Dean of the College of Design at Georgia Tech, where such innovation is taking place on a daily basis. Ellen's background lies in urban planning with areas of expertise in land use planning and law, sustainability, health and the built environment, and international development particularly in the Global South. In this interview, Monica and Jennifer catch up with Ellen about where her interest in urban planning began, the importance of using biophilic design across disciplines, and the impactful years she spent abroad working in Kenya. Show NotesAbout Ellen BassettEllen Bassett ResearchGeorgia Tech College of DesignConversations with Cabrera: Ellen Bassett (YouTube)Solar Decathlon SimTrigate Design Lab, School of Architecture, Georgia TechFront Lawns, Biodiversity, and Bylaws with Nina Marie Lister (Biophilic Solutions)Atlanta BeltlineKey Words: Georgia Tech, Design, College of Design, Urban Planning, Land Use, Land Planning, Land Law, Kenya, Africa, Architecture, Built Environment, Urban Sprawl, Atlanta, Nature, Nature Based Solutions, Climate Change, Climate Resilience, Biophilia, Biophilic Design 

It's officially cozy season! This week, Monica and Jennifer are back with another roundup of biophilic holiday reads, perfect for gifting or curling up with by the fireplace. So, whether you're looking for a beautiful coffee table book, inspiring looks at the science of spirituality, or words of wisdom inspired by nature, keep on listening. Shownotes Biophilic Solutions on Bookshop.orgThe 2024 Biophilic Leadership Summit Wild: The Naturalistic Garden by Clare Takacs and Noel KingsburyDesign a healthy home by Oliver HeathHow to Be More Tree: Essential Life Lessons for Perennial Happiness by Potter Gift and Annie DavidsonThin Place Design: The Architecture of the Numinous by Dr. Phillip James TabbThe Transcendent Brain: Spirituality in the Age of Science by Alan Lightman The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick RubinThe Language of Trees: A Rewilding of Literature and Landscape by Katie Holten Key Words: Biophilic, Biophilia, Nature, Nature Based Solutions, Reading, Holiday, Gifts, Book, Book List, Science, Spirituality, Trees, Garden, Gardening, Natural Garden, Thin Places, Creativity, Literature, Landscape, Clare Takacs, Noel Kingsbury, Oliver Heath, Potter Gift, Annie Davidson, Phil Tabb, Phillip James Tabb, Alan Ligthman, Rick Rubin, Katie Holten

Everyone should live within 10 minutes of a public park. Why? Because public green space improves overall health, strengthens community ties, combats climate change, and - when implemented correctly - reduces inequality. Our guest today is George Dusenbury, Vice President Southern Region and the Georgia State Director at the Trust for Public Land, an organization whose mission is to expand access to the outdoors by creating public parks and protecting public lands. In this episode, we explore exciting TPL initiatives like green schoolyards in New York City and the exciting Chattahoochee RiverLands Project that promises to transform the Atlanta metro area and beyond. We also discuss greenspace as essential infrastructure, the importance of local input,, and the resources available for anyone who wants to expand access to nature in their own communities. Show NotesTrust For Public LandAbout George Dusenbury Chattahoochee RiverLands ProjectThe Land & People LabPolicy & LegislationResource LibrarySCAPE Studio Key Words: Trust For Public Land, Public Parks, Parks & Recreation, Green Space, Climate, Climate Change, Chattahoochee River, Chattahoochee RiverLands Project, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Nature, Outdoors, Nature Based Solutions 

On the surface, you may not think that the military or professional baseball have much to do with fields like wellness, mindfulness, or biophilia - but that's exactly where you'd be wrong according to today's guest, Dr. Mark Campbell. Dr. Mark is a performance psychologist and consultant who works with clients across a wide range of challenging industries to optimize their wellbeing. He got his start  working as a lead for the US Army's performance psychology and resilience program, worked closely on the DoD's Warrior Games and Prince Harry's Invictus Games, and served as the Director of Mental Conditioning for the Washington Nationals. Throughout his impressive career, Mark noticed the transformative impact that nature had on every single one of his clients and has made the outdoors a hallmark of his approach. He even hosts a podcast on the topic called the Nature of Wellness (NOW). We were thrilled to catch up with Mark this week to explore his impressive career, how he brings more people into nature by meeting them where they are, and his ultimate goal to legitimize the term wellness. Show NotesCampbell PerformanceNature of Wellness (NOW) Podcast Mental Mechanics: The Impact of Nature by Mark Campbell Mental Mechanics: The Beauty of Silence by Mark Campbell Warrior GamesInvictus GamesKey Words: Wellness, Psychology, Performance Psychology, Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans, Invictus Games, Warrior Games, Nature, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Mindfulness, Sports, Athletics 

At this point, we all know that biophilia literally means the love of nature, right? But have you ever stopped to consider its opposite, biophobia? If you're a regular listener of this podcast, we'd be willing to bet you haven't - and to be honest, we hadn't either until we met today's guest, science journalist Emily Harwitz. Emily's recent article, ‘Beware Creeping Biophobia' was picked up by multiple outlets like The Atlantic, The Tyee, and Haikai due to its insightful breakdown of the cycle that begins when humans become irrevocably disconnected from the natural world. Basically, disconnection leads to fear, which leads to outright rejection and even destruction. We were thrilled to catch up with Emily to break down the cycle of biophobia, how we can convert the biophobic to the biophilic, and we also dive into the reasons why humans are drawn to collecting rare species. Show NotesBeware Creeping Biophobia (Haikai Magazine)Humans Fondness for the Odd and Rare Make Us Particularly Overwhelming Predators (Haikai Magazine)I'll Go If You Go Podcast Emily Harwitz WebsiteEmily Harwitz Instagram Jackson Wild Summit - 2023 Media Lab FellowsKey Words: Biophobia, Biophilia, Nature, Outdoors, Journalism, Science Journalism, Ecosystem, Environment, Wildlife, Wildlife Restoration

The health benefits of biophilic design are well-established: reduced anxiety, improved focus, lower heart rate, and generally just better overall wellbeing. However, how do those health benefits translate to financial outcomes? How do we get more business leaders and policymakers to implement biophilic design on a broader scale? Enter the latest publication from Terrapin Bright Green, The Economics of Biophilia second edition. This new report, co-authored by today's guests Bill Browning and Catie Ryan, looks at five sectors - offices, education, retail, hospitality, healthcare, and community - detailing the benefits of biophilic design interventions for each and then making the financial case in great detail. In this episode, Bill and Catie share how a flood of new research led them to update their original 2012 report, how businesses and policymakers can utilize biophilic design to meet their financial objectives, and why it really all comes back to long term thinking.  Show NotesThe Economics of Biophilia: Why Designing with Nature Makes Financial Sense, second edition by Bill Browning, Catie Ryan, and Dakota WalkerNature Inside A Biophilic Design Guide by Bill Browning and Catie Ryan Terrapin Bright GreenInterfaceKeywords: Economics, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Nature Based Design, Nature Based, Finance, Architecture, Built Environment, Green Building, Nature, Finance 

For the future of sustainable textiles, should we look no further than … the ocean? Today we're speaking with Aleks Gosiewski and Tessa Callaghan, the founders of Keel Labs, a sustainable materials company built on regenerative principles. Keel Labs' signature product is Kelsun, a seaweed-based yarn with a significantly lower environmental footprint than traditional fibers. Alex and Tessa met as design students at the Fashion Institute of Technology and went on to win the first-ever Biodesign Challenge in 2016. In the years since they founded Keel Labs, both women have been named as one of Forbes' 30 Under 30. In this episode, we chat with Tessa and Aleks about the promise of kelp as a regenerative raw material, the process of turning kelp into a functional textile, and we dive into - no pun intended - the challenges and rewards of building a company with sustainable innovation at its very core. Show NotesKeel LabsForbes' 30 Under 30 2022 (Manufacturing)Would You Wear a Sweater Made Out of Seaweed? (HighSnobiety)A new material made from seaweed will transform the entire textile industry by Tessa Callaghan (Upworthy)Keel Labs on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedInFashion Institute of Technology (FIT)The Biodesign ChallengeKey Words: Keel, Keel Labs, Ocean, Seaweed, Kelp, Algae, Fashion, Design, Fashion Design, Textiles, Materials, Sustainability, Regenerative, Regenerative Materials, Environment, Climate, Climate Change, Climate Solutions, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Biodesign 

This week, we're exploring buildings that are biophilic, climate resilient, and set the gold standard for net positive, responsible design. Specifically, we'll dive deep into two projects by ZGF Architects, an industry leader in sustainable and regenerative design: Portland's PAE Building, the first developer-driven Living Building,  and the very biophilic expansion of the main terminal at Portland International Airport. Our guest today is Kathy Berg, a partner with ZGF, who worked closely on both projects. In this episode, we chat with Kahty about bringing nature into the built environment, designing buildings meant to last into the distant future, and the amazing technology that supports climate resilience. Show NotesZGF ArchitectsAbout Kathy BergPAE Engineers, The PAE Living BuildingPort of Portland, PDX Airport Main Terminal ExpansionFollow ZGF Architects on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTubeKey Words: Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Biophilic Architecture, Architecture, Living Building, Living Building Challenge, Sustainability, Climate Resilience, Green Building, Built Environment, Nature, Nature Based Solutions 

If a negative climate tipping point refers to a critical threshold that triggers irreversible damage, then it stands to reason that a positive tipping point is the exact opposite - a beneficial axis that, when reached, staves off the worst planetary outcomes. Our guest today, Dr. Tim Lenton, is the Chair in Climate Change and Earth System Science at the University of Exeter and is the Founder of the Global Systems Institute, an organization that uses a whole systems approach to solve global challenges and build a flourishing future. In this interview, we look at some examples of positive tipping points, discuss the social movements that are having real impact, and the individual actions we can all take to lower our carbon footprint. Show NotesProfessor Tim Lenton, University of ExeterGlobal Systems InstituteEarth System Science: A Very Short Introduction by Tim LentonRevolutions That Made the Earth by Tim Lenton and Andrew WatsonGaia: A New Look at Life on Earth by Jim Lovelock Positive Tipping Points Could Save the Climate - This Man is Showing Us How (Positive.News)

This week, we're exploring the intersection of agriculture, artistry, and history through the lens of indigo, a significant cash crop in the colonial period with inextricable ties to the slave trade. So inextricable, in fact, that slavery wasn't even legal in Georgia until 1751, when British governors recognized the economic potential of the plant and its distinctive blue dye. Our guest today is Sheri Parks, Ph.D is a renowned community strategist, scholar, and writer who currently serves as the Program Director of the Natural Dye Initiative, a multi-part project whose aim is to explore the cultural and economic impact of indigo in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions by reintroducing it to Black farmers and artists. In this episode, we discuss the transformative impact of reclaiming indigo production in the southern United States, how the Natural Dye Initiative makes it economically viable for a new generation of farmers, and touch on the global significance of this remarkable plant. Dr. Parks formerly served as the VP of Strategic Initiatives at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and as Associate Dean of Arts and Humanities and Professor of American Studies at the University of Maryland. Her scholarly work focuses on how art and aesthetics affect our day to day lives and how aesthetics can be used as a tool for social justice.Show NotesHow Beauty Works Panel (YouTube)Fierce Angels: Living with the Legacy from the Sacred Dark Feminine to the Strong Black Woman by Sheri Parks, Ph.DUpton Planning CommitteeMaryland Institute College of Art (MICA)Natural Dye Initiative Origin StoryNeighborhood Fiber Co. Aims to Weave Positive Social Change (Baltimore Magazine)Key Words: Indigo, Indigo Dye, Colonial, Colonialism, Nature Dye, Maryland, Baltimore, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Agriculture, Farming, Organic Farming, Art, Aesthetics, Southern United States, US history 

Our guest today, Nina, Simons, believes that the root of many social and environmental problems we face today can be traced back to a fundamental imbalance between traditionally masculine and feminine attributes – and she has the evidence to back that up. In her latest book, Nature, Culture, & The Sacred: A Woman Listens for Leadership, Nina demonstrates how interconnected many modern problems really are and she lays out the ways in which we might overcome them, with women's leadership and Indigenous wisdom at the forefront. Alongside her husband Kenny Ausubel, Nina is the co-founder of Bioneers, a nonprofit with a mission to platform common-sense solutions to social and ecological challenges with a whole systems approach. In 2017, she and Kenny were the recipients of the Goi Peace Award. In addition to Nature, Culture, and the Scared, Nina is the author of Ecological and Social Healing: Multicultural Women's Woes and Moonrise: The Power of Women Leading from the Heart.Show NotesNature, Culture, & the Sacred: A Woman Listens for Leadership by Nina SimonsNina Simons WebsiteBioneersEcological and Social Healing: Multicultural Women's Woes by Nina SimonsMoonrise: The Power of Women Leading from the Heart by Nina Simons with Anneke CampbellThe Burning Times DocumentaryThe Athena Doctrine: How Women (and the Men Who Think Like Them) Will Rule the Future by John Gerzema and Michael D'Antonio Key Words: Nature, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Environment, Ecosystem, Spirituality, Sacred, Feminism, Women's Leadership, Patriarchy, Patriarchal System, Indigenous, Indigenous Wisdom, Healer, Wellness, Climate, Climate Change

This week we're diving into the world of human-centered architecture and its profound impact on brain health with Dr. Tuwanda Green, Adjunct Instructor in the School of Architecture at Virginia Tech. Before getting her PhD, Dr. Green ran her own architecture firm for over 20 years, working primarily in commercial and government buildings, where her experience in military housing and facilities greatly informed her practice. Dr. Green believes that a science-minded and data-driven approach to biophilic architecture is the key for achieving greater scale, that the built environment plays a major role in human wellbeing, and that all architecture students should understand basic human biology. Show NotesAbout Dr. Tuwanda GreenHuman Design Theory Pioneering Women of American Architecture: Julia MorganDr. Judith Heerwagen14 Patterns of Biophilic Design 

Jennifer and Monica here! We've officially reached the height of Summer. The days are long, it's (very) hot outside, and there's nothing we want to do more than hang out with a good book - preferably next to some kind of body of water. Failing that, we'll take a big, icy, reusable water bottle. So, for this week's episode, we've rounded up a list of our top picks for biophilic summer reads. From romance and awe to brain health and climate science-fiction, we've got something for everyone. The common theme? Nature is always center stage. Show NotesYour Brain on Art: How Art Transforms Us by Susan Magsamen & Ivy RossYour Brain on Nature: Neuroaesthetics and Biophilia with Dr. Anjan Chatterjee Form Follows Feeling: Serenity, Human Emotion, and Design with Suchi ReddyThe Signature of All Things by Elizabeth GilbertAwe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher KeltnerEveryday Utopia: What 2,000 Years of Wild Experiments Can Teach Us About the Good Life by Kristen GhodseeSaving Time: Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock by Jenny Oddell The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley RobinsonKey Words: Summer Reading, Reading, Books, Book List, Nature, Biophilia, Art, Awe, Elizabeth Gilbert, Utopia Jenny Oddell, Ken Stanley Robinson, Dacher Keltner, Susan Magsamen, Neuroscience, Neuroaesthetics, Climate Change, Climate Science, Wellness 

During the early weeks of the pandemic, when human activity and movement were significantly reduced, there were reports of various animals returning to urban landscapes. Think coyotes in San Francisco, wild boar in Barcelona, and dolphins in Italian port cities. These unique resurgences pose interesting questions about the relationship between humans and animals, our ability to coexist, and wildlife resilience in general. In today's episode, we're joined by renowned environmental philosopher Dr. Christopher J. Preston to discuss his most recent book, Tenacious Beasts: Wildlife Recoveries That Change How We Think About Animals. This book highlights the incredible species that have come back from the brink of extinction against all odds. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Preston poses fascinating questions about the role of technology, the right level of human intervention, and how climate change impacts this entire conversation. Christopher Preston is an environmental philosopher who teaches at the University of Montana. His writing has appeared in publications such as The Atlantic, Smithsonian Magazine, Discover, Slate, the Wall Street Journal, Salon, and The BBC. He is the author of two books, The Synthetic Age: Outdesigning Evolution, Resurrecting Species, and Reengineering Our World, and a new book Tenacious Beasts.Show NotesChristopher J. Preston WebsiteChristopher J. Preston BlogTenacious Beasts: Wildlife Recoveries that Change How We Think About Animals by Christopher J. PrestonThe Synthetic Age: Outdesigning Evolution, Resurrecting Species, and Reengineering Our World by Christopher J. PrestonKey Words: Animal, Animal Recovery, Wildlife, Wildlife Restoration, Ecology, Ecological Restoration, Ecosystem, Animal Welfare, Endangered Species, Environment, Environmental Philosophy, Philosophy, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Nature, Nature Based Solutions

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of biodesign, exploring the amazing opportunities that arise when science, technology, and fashion come together. Think faux leather that's made with kombucha, functional yarn derived from seaweed, and performance clothing that replaces nylon and spandex with naturally sourced, biodegradable protein. Our guest is Dr. Karen Pearson, Professor of Chemistry at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and Chair of FIT's Sustainability Council. Karen has been widely recognized for her commitment to cross-disciplinary education: she is the recipient of the President's Award for Curricular Innovation and has been acknowledged as one of the top 100 Most Influential Women in STEM. In this episode, we discuss the intersection of science and design, the innovative work being done by FIT students and faculty, and talk through some amazing examples of biodesign in action. Show NotesFashion Institute of Technology (FIT)Sustainability at FITNatural Dye Garden ProjectBiodesign ChallengeKeel LabsWerewoolKey Words: Biophilia, Biophilic, Biophilic Design, Biodesign, Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, STEM, STEAM, Fashion, Fashion Institute of Technology, Technology, Design, Fashion Design, Materials, Innovation, Sustainability, Sustainable, Climate Change, Climate, Nature Based, Nature Based Solutions  

This week, we're thrilled to be speaking with fashion designer Mara Hoffman, the President and Creative Director of her own namesake brand, known throughout the world for its innovation and creativity. Nowadays, Mara is also widely known for her fierce commitment to sustainability; however, when she founded her company in 2000, there was very little dialogue (if any) about the fashion industry's impact on the planet. In this conversation, we explore how Mara methodically and carefully shifted her brand to an eco-conscious model starting in 2015, how movement, nature, and femininity inspire her creatively, and how she finds solace and wisdom from time spent in nature, especially among the trees near her home in upstate New York. Show NotesMara Hoffman: Our ApproachMara Hoffman: Our MaterialsMara Hoffman: Our ManufacturingMara Hoffman: Our CommitmentsMara Hoffman: Wear More Wash LessMara Hoffman: Our GuidelinesMara Hoffman ResaleMara Hoffman NYC Flagship StoreBiophilic Cities ProjectThe Overstory by Richard PowersInterview: Designer Mara Hoffman on Sustainability in Fashion (Teen Vogue)Mara Hoffman's Environmental Efforts Extend Beyond Clothing (Zoe Report)Key Words: Fashion, Fashion Industry, Sustainability, Sustainable, Sustainable Fashion, Mara Hoffman, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Retail, Environment, Climate, Climate Change, Nature, Trees, Overstory, Nature Wisdom, Sacred Nature, Design

As humans, we have notable biophilic responses to natural materials, forms, fractal patterns, and so much more. However, one material stands out from the rest for the particularly strong fascination it seems to hold - wood. In this special edition of Biophilic Solutions, hear from green building expert Bill Browning as he explores the science behind our distinct inclination for wood and wood patterns and why the presence of this particular material has been shown to lower stress, reduce blood pressure, and provide a sense of comfort and warmth. Dive deeper into this fascinating concept by reading The Nature of Wood white paper, authored by Bill Browning, Catie Ryan, and Claire DeMarco in our shownotes.Show Notes:The Nature of Wood (Terrapin Bright Green)Forestry Innovation InvestmentSoftwood Lumber BoardSasanqua Spa Kiawah Island (Clodagh)Oliver Heath Studio Maggie's Leeds Center by Heatherwick Studio (ArchDaily)14 Patterns of Biophilic Design (Terrapin Bright Green)Key Words: Biophilia, Biophilic, Biophilic Design, Green Building, Architecture, Green Architecture, Nature, Nature Based Design, Nature Based Solutions, Wood, Wood Grain, Mass Timber, Mass Timber Building, Psychology, Wellness 

We caught up with Credo Co-Founder & COO Annie Jackson at the 17th FIT Sustainable Business & Design Conference to talk all about clean beauty and the movement towards circularity in the beauty industry. Discover how Credo is a leader in sustainability with groundbreaking sustainable packaging guidelines and in-store recycling programs. Also, no substance gets past Credo; over 2,700 ingredients are banned through “The Dirty List.” The Credo Clean Standard embodies the company's complete commitment to beauty, health, and well-being and serves to connect to a vibrant and rapidly growing ecosystem of clean beauty brands with a new generation of informed consumers. In this conversation, we talk to Annie all about her background in the beauty industry, dig into the Credo Clean Standard, and explore how shifting consumer expectations will change the industry for the better. Show NotesRegister for the Biophilic Leadership Summit (Ticket Sales End April 20!)WATCH Biophilic Solutions Live with Credo Beauty at FIT's 17th Sustainable Business & Design Conference (Vimeo)Credo BeautyCredo Clean StandardThe Dirty List®Credo For ChangeFIT Sustainable Business & Design ConferenceFashion Institute of Technology (FIT)Key Words: Beauty, Beauty Industry, Sustainability, Sustainable Packaging, Recycling, Circularity, Circular Economy, Regenerative, Regenerative, Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Wellness, Fashion, Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, FIT

In a world where people are so divided, what does it mean to have meaningful, thoughtful conversations? And is it even possible? If you asked today's guest, Fred Dust, author of Making Conversation: Seven Essential Elements of Meaningful Communication, the quick answer would be a resounding yes.  However, we often lack the tools we need to communicate effectively. In today's episode of Biophilic Solutions, we'll look at the state of conversation today, explore the concept of conversational communities, and of course, we'll discuss how nature provides the best backdrop for thoughtful communication.Fred Dust will be the keynote speaker at the 2023 Biophilic Leadership Summit, April 23-26 in Serenbe. A former Senior Partner and Global Managing Director for acclaimed design firm IDEO, Fred Dust works at the intersection of business, society and creativity. Most recently, he has been investigating new ways to ignite constructive dialogue in a climate of widespread polarization, cynicism and disruption. His keynote address will center on creating meaningful dialogue about biophilic principles.⁠Show NotesLearn More & Register: The Biophilic Leadership Summit, April 23-26 in SerenbeAbout Fred DustMaking Conversation: Seven Essential Elements of Meaningful Communication by Fred DustBetter Conversations: the 7 essential elements of meaningful communication by Fred Dust (Fortune)House Calls with Dr. Vivek Murthy | 11.30.22 | Episode 12: Fred Dust: Can We Talk? (YouTube)IDEOKey Words: Communication, Conversation, Dialogue, Biophilia, Biophilic, Biophilic Design, Design, Architecture, Conversational Communities, Biophilic Community, Nature Based Solutions, Nature Based Learning, Keynote, Keynote Speaker, Environment, Climate, Climate Change

lWhether we like to admit it or not, the outdoor industry can sometimes feel like an exclusive club. If you didn't grow up camping, hiking, canoeing, or mountain biking, all of the gear, specialized clothing, and different types of footwear can feel cumbersome and overwhelming to say the least. Enter Lindsey Lindemulder and her team at Merrell, industry leaders in the outdoor footwear space, who are actively seeking ways to expand access to the outdoors so that everyone can enjoy the simple power of time spent in nature. As Merrel's Senior Director of Brand Marketing, Lindsey understands the importance of establishing a brand that feels approachable and inclusive, whether you're an experienced hiker or a total novice. In this episode, we talk about representation in the outdoor industry, Merrell's approach to sustainability and their 2025 goals, and answer the question, “when did self-care get so hard?”Show NotesMerrellInside MerrellReport: Inclusivity in the OutdoorsMerrell Launches Collaboration with Painter Jordan Ann Craig (PR Newswire)Sustainability at MerrellMerrell ReTread ProgramKey Words: Merrell, Merrell Footwear, Footwear, Outdoors, Outdoor Industry, Nature, Marketing, Biophilia, Biophilic, Sustainability, Sustainable Design, Recycling, Recycling Program, Inclusivity, Representation, Diversity, Self-Care, Wellness, Recreation

Have you ever felt that you were on the precipice of a sacred experience? Or visited a place that left you with a profound sense of awe or serenity? If so, you've had a thin place experience. On today's episode of the podcast, Dr. Phill Tabb, our first ever guest, is back to talk about his new research on this fascinating and mysterious topic. In this conversation, we define thin places, talk about emotional responses to thin places, and discuss the overlap between thin places and biophilia. Dr. Phillip James Tabb is the Emeritus Professor of Architecture at Texas A&M University. He will present his research on thin places and biophilia at the upcoming Biophilic Leadership Summit, happening April 23rd - 26th in Serenbe. His new book, Thin Place Design: Architecture of the Numinous, comes out this Summer. Show NotesTickets: Biophilic Leadership Summit, April 23 - 26Confirmed Speakers: Biophilic Leadership SummitPre-Order Thin Place Design: Architecture of the Numinous by Dr. Phillip James TabbDr. Keith Critchlow | The Art of Sacred Geometry (Keith Critchlow Legacy)Rudolf Otto and the Numinous (Wikipedia)Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher KeltnerSerenity as a Goal for Nursing Practice by Kay T. Roberts, Ann Whall (Journal of Nursing Scholarship)Plutchik's Emotion Wheel: Purpose, Definition, and Uses (Berkeley Wellbeing Institute)14 Patterns of Biophilic Design (Terrapin Bright Green)Key Words: Thin Places, Serenity, Serene, Awe, Dacher Keltner, Biophilia, Biophilic, Biophilic Design, Biophilic Patterns, Sacred, Sacred Geometry, Spirituality, Architecture, Sacred Architecture, Ireland, Skellig Islands