POPULARITY
What if saving wildlife starts with school lunches, backpacks, and bush walks? In Part 2 of the Wild Tomorrow series, community leader Aphiwe Notshaya joins Dr. Diane to share how a community partnership approach to conservation in rural South Africa is feeding preschoolers, supporting orphaned and vulnerable children, opening doors to university, and building real climate resilience—one partnership at a time.SummaryIn this episode, Dr. Diane continues the Wild Tomorrow series with community conservation manager Aphiwe Notshaya. Aphiwe describes her path from aspiring accountant to environmental manager and how Wild Tomorrow lets her merge people-centered work with habitat protection. Aphiwe shares how the Early Childhood Development (ECD) program supports preschools with teacher training, toys, and monthly food so young children receive two meals a day and learn to love school, and how a partner community center provides uniforms, stationery, backpacks, and academic support for orphaned and vulnerable children. Aphiwe highlights a local mentor helping graduates apply for university, learnerships, and internships in a rural area with limited digital access, and explains how environmental education days bring children into the reserve for bush walks, outdoor journals, and close-up encounters with insects, birds, and habitats, not just the “big five.” She talks about choosing strategic partnerships with traditional leaders, women's climate‑smart agriculture projects, and Zulu cultural practices tied to healthy rivers, all while avoiding conservation models that fence people out. Looking ahead, Aphiwe shares her dream of deeper climate resilience work, seed banks, and disaster centers—and why her love of snakes surprises people. What keeps her hopeful is simple -- communities that are still willing to listen, learn, and change.Chapters[00:01] Welcome & Meet Aphiwe: Part 2 of the Wild Tomorrow series and the woman leading community partnerships.[01:11] Discovering Conservation as a Career: From “future accountant” to environmental management and Wild Tomorrow.[04:34] Community-Centered Conservation: Why Wild Tomorrow centers local needs alongside wildlife.[04:58] Preschools, Food, and Early Childhood Development: Supporting ECD centers with teacher training, resources, and monthly meals.[08:10] Orphaned and Vulnerable Children: Uniforms, stationery, backpacks, and extra classes for kids who need it most.[09:50] Helping Youth Reach University and Jobs: Backing a local mentor who guides applications for university, learnerships, and internships.[12:16] Game Drives, Bush Walks, and Outdoor Journals: Bringing local kids into the reserve to notice insects, birds, and habitats.[15:35] Partnerships with Chiefs, Culture, and Climate-Smart Farmers: Working with traditional leaders, Zulu maidens, and women's agriculture groups.[20:40] Breaking Down Fences: Making the reserve feel like “our future” for neighboring communities.[23:55] Aphiwe's Practical Wish List: Fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and basic school supplies with big impact.[25:36] Dreaming of Climate Resilience and Disaster Centers: Teaching about wetlands, floods, and planning for a changing climate.[28:49] Favorite Animal: The Dramatic Rinkhals: Why a snake that plays dead has her heart.[29:51] What Brings Aphiwe Hope: Communities that listen, adapt, and choose sustainable paths.Links:Episode 189 – Part 1 of the Wild Tomorrow series with co-founders John Seward and Wendy HapgoodWild Tomorrow Community Programs and opportunities to supportFollow Aphiwe and Wild Tomorrow on InstagramFollow Aphiwe and Wild Tomorrow on LinkedInSupport the showShare this episodeIf this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague.Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friendStay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.
All Ears Episode Description: Marcus Rosten—guest-host of the Bring Birds Back podcast on Bird Note, naturalist, and Grammy Award winner—joins us to share a story of navigating racial harassment while hawk-watching at his local park during the civil rights movements of 2020 In their own words: Marcus Rosten is a naturalist working to protect, connect, and restore the largest remaining tracts of wildlife habitat in Western New York. Since graduating with a degree in Environmental Education and Interpretation from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, he has served as an interpretive park ranger in our national parks and forests, led environmental education and stewardship programs with non-profit organizations, and worked as a fish and wildlife technician, conducting wildlife surveys and managing habitats for state and federal agencies. Marcus is a 30 Under 30 Awardee from the North American Association for Environmental Education and has been featured nationally in Scholastic News, Nike Journal, BirdNote, and on PBS Nature.As the Director of the Western New York Wildway with the Western New York Land Conservancy in Buffalo, NY, he is leading a landscape-scale conservation initiative to create a network of protected lands and corridors from the Allegany Plateau of Appalachia to the Great Lakes and beyond. The WNY Wildway will allow plants and animals to safely roam across the land as they once did, to move as the climate changes, and expand their ranges to ensure their survival. He is also a GRAMMY Award winning musician performing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus.This episode supports: Bird Note! Listen to episode featuring Marcus here https://www.birdnote.org/contributed/17548Help us keep making the show: Patreon.com/WeOutHerePodTwitter and IG @TheWeOutHerePodStart learning about whose land you're on and begin taking action https://native-land.ca/
Jane found her way to science via her high school biology class and earned her PhD studying trout and salmon evolution. After research positions at Washington State University and The Jackson Laboratory, Jane transitioning to teaching high school biology, which she did for for 10 years. She then launched the MDI Water Quality Coalition and later joined MDI Biolab to focus on environmental health research, particularly investigating arsenic and PFAS contamination in drinking water. This conversation was recorded in March 2026. ~~~~~The Maine Science Podcast is a production of the Maine Discovery Museum. It is recorded at Discovery Studios, at the Maine Discovery Museum, in Bangor, ME. The Maine Science Podcast is hosted and executive produced by Kate Dickerson; edited and produced by Scott Loiselle. The Discover Maine theme was composed and performed by Nick Parker. To support our work: https://www.mainediscoverymuseum.org/donate. Find us online:Maine Discovery MuseumMaine Discovery Museum on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Bluesky YouTubeMaine Science Podcast on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTubeMaine Science Festival on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube© 2026 Maine Discovery Museum
Gugs Mhlungu speaks to Dr Cary Goodwin, Gardening expert & plant lover at Colourful Splendour about her passion for plants, her typical Sunday routines, and intriguing insights into gardening, while also answering listeners’ plant-related questions. Gugs Mhlungu gets you ready for the weekend each Saturday and Sunday morning on 702. She is your weekend wake-up companion, with all you need to know for your weekend. The topics Gugs covers range from lifestyle, family, health, and fitness to books, motoring, cooking, culture, and what is happening on the weekend in 702land. Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu. Listen live on Primedia+ on Saturdays and Sundays from 06:00 and 10:00 (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/u3Sf7Zy or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BIXS7AL Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sooty from South East Forest Rescue shares a significant legal win in the High Court, which affirmed the right for third parties with a "special interest" to take Forestry Corporation to court in New South Wales. This overturned Forestry's argument that such actions would "open the floodgates” to legal action from environmentalists.Sooty describes the subsequent ongoing case in the Land Environment Court against Forest Corp, hinging on the precise definition of a "glider den tree."Fifteen year-old Jesinta Newland, describes how her passion for nature, ignited at age eight after witnessing logging. She speaks out against deforestation that destroys habitats for endangered species like koalas and gliders, mostly for woodchips and paper.Jesinta and her mother Jaclyn attended the SCAN South Coast Action Network Forest Festival, a family-friendly, dry, vegan-food event focused on community and environmental education. Jacinta describes forest festival activities: Spotlighting, Eco-dying: and NVDA Training and campaigning for protection for 500-year-old "Mother Tree" Big Spotty in Booman State Forest.Jesinta notes that there is a lack of awareness and education as many of her peers are unaware of the logging occurring locally. She wishes for more comprehensive environmental education in schools, as she has learned most of her knowledge through SCAN and older mentors. Guests: Sooty: South East Forest Rescue Jesinta Newland: SCAN South Coast Action Network Jaclyn NewlandLinks:SCAN South Coast Action NetworkSouth East Forest RescueNorth East Forest AllianceNational Parks Association of NSW - Protecting Nature Through Community Action
Send us Fan MailWe're joined by Rukia Yosif, Environmental Education and Outreach Coordinator for the City of Kirkland, to talk about the popular Spring Recycling Collection Event and how residents can make the most of it. We celebrate the return of the Celebrate Kirkland Parade, explain new school zone speed limit signs, share bike safety tips ahead of Bike Everywhere Day, recap the May 5 City Council meeting, and spotlight Wildfire Awareness Month. Plus, we cover the NE 85th Street interchange opening, a gun safety class, the Kirkland Heat Pump Workshop, Green Kirkland volunteer opportunities, Bloodworks Northwest's Oahu giveaway, and upcoming events like the Downsize and Declutter workshop and the Crabby Old Pharts Pea Patch ribbon cutting. Show notes: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/podcast#20260507
Send us Fan MailDoctors in North America are now prescribing something you can't buy at a pharmacy… and it's backed by a growing body of science. Jennie McCaffrey is the Vice President of Health & Education at the BC Parks Foundation ( https://bcparksfoundation.ca/ ), where she leads initiatives designed to connect people to nearby nature for the benefit of both human health and the planet.With a career spanning environmental education, behavior change, and large-scale community engagement, Jennie has worked across nonprofits, government, and industry to inspire action on biodiversity, climate, and public health. Her work has helped build movements around ambitious conservation goals like 25x25 and 30x30, while also translating those global targets into everyday human behaviors - getting people outside, active, and reconnected with nature.Before stepping into her current role, Jennie led education and engagement efforts at the Invasive Species Council of BC, where she scaled programs dramatically during a period of rapid organizational growth. She has also spent over a decade delivering hands-on environmental education through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and its WildBC program, empowering communities to better understand and protect the natural world.Jennie holds a Master's in Environmental Education and a Bachelor's in Conservation Biology from University of British Columbia, and she brings both scientific grounding and deep community experience to her mission: making nature a daily, accessible part of people's lives - and a cornerstone of healthier societies.#NatureAsMedicine #HealthyByNature #ParkPrescriptions #PaRx #PreventiveHealth #PublicHealthInnovation #MentalHealth #Longevity #BehaviorChange #EnvironmentalHealth #Biodiversity #ClimateAndHealth #OutdoorWellness #NatureTherapy #HealthcareInnovation #FutureOfHealth #PopulationHealth #WellnessStrategy #UrbanNature #HealthOptimization #BiohackingNature #Sustainability #BCParks #HumanPerformance #NatureConnectionSupport the show
In today's episode we speak with Jaime Ehrenberg, an intuitive and spiritual guide whose gift is listening to and communicating with the land. We have an eye opening conversation about what we can all do to energetically care for our own back yard, and the healing that can ripple out when we do this. We talk about: Jaime's early years being raised by a single Dad, her draw toward environmentalism and education, and the winding career path that led her to what she is now doing. When Jaime and Betsy met at a rewilding retreat in Spain, and Betsy's first impression of Jaime. How the retreat in Spain unlocked a new awareness in Jaime that she was meant to intuitively work with the land. The 80 acres in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains that Jaime and her husband Christina bought that they named Idylwild, and their plans to create a healing retreat/temple space. The way the land first began to speak to Jaime, and it's revelatory message that it needed Jaime's help to clear the toxic masculine energy on the land from the years of extraction and misuse by previous owners. What Jaime has learned about communing with the land, and how one of the most powerful things we can do is to look at everything, notice all the details of nature and speak to the land about the beauty you observe. Bio: Jaime Ehrenberg is an Intuitive, Embodiment & Spiritual guide trained as a priestess, reiki, and embodiment coach. Her work bridges somatic awareness, intuitive guidance, and energetic attunement—creating a sacred space where body, mind, and spirit can come into coherence. With over 25 years of experience in group leadership and transformational spaces, she weaves structure and intuition into every container she holds. Jaime holds a Master's degree in Education and an undergraduate degree in Environmental Education, grounding her spiritual work in a foundation of facilitation, pedagogy, and deep reverence for the natural world. Jaime's website: https://idylwildretreatstn.com Other Episodes You Might Like: Episode 166: Dropping Into Radiant Rest with Tracee Stanley Episode 115: Dr Arielle Schwartz: Awakening the Spiritual Heart Episode 105: Kate O'Donnell: Ayurveda for Women's Health Episode 90: Michaela Boehm: The Wild Woman's Way to Embodiment Episode 66: Therapy Anyone? Episode 27: Connecting to Our True Selves with Narrative Therapist, Andrea Wilson Today's Episode sponsored by: The Local Hub (https://thelocalhub-ic.com/) Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Heartland Yoga (https://heartlandyoga.com/) Want to do coaching work with Kate or mind-body psychotherapy with Betsy? Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Want to go on retreat? Want to join Betsy in Costa Rica in May 11-18 2026 at her favorite retreat center to help you connect with your inner healer using yoga, meditation, energy medicine, and creativity? At this retreat, broadway director Kristin Hanggi is joining to lead on the power of creativity to move us through our collective and personal anxiety. All the details here! Source
Episode Description: Marcus Rosten—guest-host of the Bring Birds Back podcast on Bird Note, naturalist, and Grammy Award winner—joins us to share a story of navigating racial harassment while hawk-watching at his local park during the civil rights movements of 2020 In their own words: Marcus Rosten is a naturalist working to protect, connect, and restore the largest remaining tracts of wildlife habitat in Western New York. Since graduating with a degree in Environmental Education and Interpretation from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, he has served as an interpretive park ranger in our national parks and forests, led environmental education and stewardship programs with non-profit organizations, and worked as a fish and wildlife technician, conducting wildlife surveys and managing habitats for state and federal agencies. Marcus is a 30 Under 30 Awardee from the North American Association for Environmental Education and has been featured nationally in Scholastic News, Nike Journal, BirdNote, and on PBS Nature.As the Director of the Western New York Wildway with the Western New York Land Conservancy in Buffalo, NY, he is leading a landscape-scale conservation initiative to create a network of protected lands and corridors from the Allegany Plateau of Appalachia to the Great Lakes and beyond. The WNY Wildway will allow plants and animals to safely roam across the land as they once did, to move as the climate changes, and expand their ranges to ensure their survival. He is also a GRAMMY Award winning musician performing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus.This episode supports: Bird Note! Listen to episode featuring Marcus here https://www.birdnote.org/contributed/17548Help us keep making the show: Patreon.com/WeOutHerePodTwitter and IG @TheWeOutHerePodStart learning about whose land you're on and begin taking action https://native-land.ca/
“I think empathy is a creative act. It's imaginal, it's an art-making practice, where even just listening is creating a picture and a lifeworld of the other inside yourself in order to get closer to each other.” - Dylan McGarryEmpathy is a magical thing. It lets us do more than just step into another's shoes, it opens the doors for us to step into their heart and soul with the vast generosity of spirit we'd like others to bring to us, wide as the sky, deep as the oceans, so that we can see through their eyes as the best of who they are. Obviously, we can do this with other people, but we can do it too, with whales, with elephants, with horses, and red kites and moles and spiders - and mountains and trees and landscapes… empathy is the spark that connects us to the More than Human world. There are not many people who truly understand this and fewer still who make it their life's work to open the doors in our souls with such subtlety that we only know afterwards that we've stepped beyond the boundaries of who we think we are. Our guest this week, Dr Dylan McGarry, is one of these people. Dyl works across the fields of Education, Sociology, Ecology, and the Arts. An Educational Sociologist, Cultural Ecologist, multimedia artist, artivist, curator, theatre and filmmaker, Dyl's work spans disciplines with many tentacles touching the world. Dyl holds a PhD in Environmental Education and Art, as well as degrees in Marine Science, Environmental Science, and Sustainable Rural Development.As co-founder of Empatheatre, their praxis draws from the power of public storytelling, theatre, film, and animation, as a tool for regenerative community building, proactive justice, active empathy and meaning making. Their artwork and creative practice are particularly focused on empathy, working with imagination, listening and empathy as actual sculptural materials. They are developing pedagogies for empathy, in the context of ecological citizenship, and exploring the sculptural potential of empathy, attentiveness, intuition and learning. Dyl is an astonishingly prolific, and inspiring pracademic, with a host of published papers in topics that I could easily dive into for years - like hydro-feminism... but it's the work of Empatheatre that we're really looking at today. This is a theatre-based approach to transgressive social learning, and an extra-legal alternative to democratising policy change. This in itself is mind-blowing - the plays are developed over months or years in collaboration with the communities affected by the concepts - and then when the play tours, the cast and crew facilitate conversations after each event that turn into tribunals or citizen's assemblies and the mere fact of having experienced the deep emotions of the play, had a sense of how things land with other people, can open doors that were previously closed. I've been searching for longer than this podcast has been live for people who are crafting paradigm shift in ways that are sticky, that will land and last - and this is it. Dylan says that empathy has three components: Imagination, attentiveness, and intuition. And just hearing this opens whole new ways of being for me, and I hope for you. This was such a heart-filling, generative conversation and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. People of the podcast, please welcome Dylan McGarry from Empatheatre, and so much more. "His sensitivity and integrity regarding valuing the knowledge, perspectives and values of others is amazing – a role model for others." Professor Charlie Shackleton, Department of Environmental Science, Rhodes UniversityLINKShttps://www.dylanmcgarry.org/https://www.empatheatre.com/Empatheatre on YouTube https://youtu.be/p_W3QBz9cPY?si=mFH4W2V7_AnObM61 Lalela uLwandle (illustrated short film)https://youtu.be/DnuZa7r0vPc?si=RX3Is2k4eN0ROO9e CWF24 TA1 Empatheatre Dylan McGarryhttps://youtu.be/sfAGXCiki8U?si=fXaqm66WlKCqO2j6 FORGE x MOTH Festival of Ideas 2025 | Dylan McGarry & Elisa Morgerahttps://youtu.be/lNm-Yf8Dt10?si=CkJW0aqePYEQAX3h Indlela Yokuphila: The Soul's Journey (ZULU)https://youtu.be/e3tUrfUXgsw?si=tQRxPTSLHgkDwckG Isitha Sabantu Teaserhttps://youtu.be/4UBubIpCWuk?si=CyVzPA7suMnmbrrr The Blue Blanket South African Puppet Company: The HerdsThe play: Isitha Sabantu - review —About Accidental Gods—We offer three strands all rooted in the same soil, drawing from the same river: Accidental Gods, Dreaming Awake and the Thrutopia Writing Masterclass Our next Open Gathering offered as part of our Accidental Gods Programme is 'FALLING IN LOVE WITH LIFE' which will run on Sunday 17th May 2026 from 16:00 - 20:00 GMT - details are here. You don't have to be a member of Accidental Gods - but if you are, all Gatherings are half price.If you'd like to join us at Accidental Gods, this is the membership where we endeavour to help you to connect fully with the living web of life. If you'd like to train more deeply in the contemporary shamanic work at Dreaming Awake, you'll find us here. If you'd like to explore the recordings from our last Thrutopia Writing Masterclass, the details are hereManda and Louise both offer one-to-one Mentoring Calls. Manda is fully booked just now, but if you'd like to contact Louise, details are here.
Earthkeepers: A Circlewood Podcast on Creation Care and Spirituality
In this conversation, guest host Noah Guthrie interviews Ciro Flores Cabrera about the vital work of A Rocha in environmental conservation across Peru. They consider A Rocha's prioritization on helping to preserve traditional culture of native peoples in connection to their work of protecting native flora and fauna. Their conversation highlights community engagement, ecosystem restoration, and the spiritual connection to caring for God's creation. A RochaA Rocha PeruNoah Guthrie's essay regarding his time in Peru, on The Ecological DiscipleKey Topics· Ecosystem restoration in dry forests and the Amazon· Community involvement and indigenous knowledge· The spiritual and biblical basis of environmental care KeywordsMachiguenga, Environmental Conservation, Peru, Amazon, Dry Forest, Community Engagement, Ecosystem Restoration, Indigenous Knowledge, Biofauna, Sacred Nature, Christian Ministry, acacia, carob, entrepreneurship, environmental education, tilapiaFind us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple
Dr. Robin Lindgren and Dr. Dean Barker host the Nordic Article club, this month they talked with Prof. Suzanne Lundvall and Assistant Prof Andreas Fröberg.These are the papers that are the basis for their conversationsFröberg, A., & Lundvall, S. (2025). Integrating Sustainable Development Within Physical Education Teacher Education Courses: A Professional Learning Project. Australian Journal of Environmental Education, 1-20. Fröberg, A., Wiklander, P., Baena-Morales, S., & Lundvall, S. (2023). How to teach about sustainable development in physical education? Examples from the perspectives of certified teachers in Sweden. Frontiers in Education, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2023.1294763 Lundvall, S., & Fröberg, A. (2022). From individual to lifelong environmental processes: reframing health in physical education with the sustainable development goals. Sport, Education and Society, 28(6), 684-696. https://doi.org/10.1080/13573322.2022.2062320 Wiklander, P., Fröberg, A., & Lundvall, S. (2024). Experiences, Attitudes, and Perceived Competence Regarding Sustainable Development Among Physical Education and Health Teachers in Sweden. Journal of Teaching in Physical Education, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1123/jtpe.2023-0163 Wiklander, P., Fröberg, A., & Lundvall, S. (2023). Searching for the alternative: A scoping review of empirical studies with holistic perspectives on health and implications for teaching physical education. European Physical Education Review, 29(3), 351-368. DOI: 10.1177/1356336X221147813 Lundvall, S., Gisladottir, T., Lauritzen, Å., Svendsen, A. M., Salin, K., Stefansdottir, R., & Fröberg, A. (2024). Sustainable development perspectives in Nordic physical education curricula: a cross-country comparison of the status and pre-conditions. Curriculum Studies in Health and Physical Education, 15(3), 358-374. https://doi.org/10.1080/25742981.2024.2376855
Erin Klauk is an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Wyoming and Co-Director of the UW Science Initiative Roadshow and Community Engagement Program. With a background in the earth sciences and geoscience education, Erin is passionate about connecting people of all ages with Earth science through hands-on, place-based learning. Before joining the university, she spent nearly two decades as a high school Earth science teacher, developing engaging, NGSS-aligned lessons and mentoring students in scientific thinking. Erin's career in education began as a Yellowstone National Park ranger, where she first discovered the power of sharing science through storytelling and exploration. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. Dr. Jessica (Jessie) Marcolini is the Director of the Science and Math Teacher Center (SMTC) within the College of Education at the University of Wyoming. The SMTC is devoted to excellence in preK-20 science and mathematics teaching and learning and facilitates professional development that supports educators in Wyoming and across the United States. Jessie earned her Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Florida Gulf Coast University where she investigated the impacts of K-12 STEM professional development on teachers' sense of self efficacy. Her major research and teaching interest include STEM Education, Faculty/Teacher Professional Development, Sustainability, and Environmental Education. Dr. Karagh Brummond is the Co-Director of the UW Top-Tier Science Initiative's Roadshow & Community Engagement Program and an Assistant Instructional Professor in the Honors College at the University of Wyoming. She holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Wyoming and currently teaches Neuroscience and Law. In her engagement role, Karagh helps to lead statewide STEM engagement efforts, partnering with K-12 schools and communities to deliver hands-on STEM learning throughout the state of Wyoming.
Today's guest is Judy Braus, Executive Director of the North American Association for Environmental Education or NAAEE for short.NAAEE's mission is to use the power of education to advance environmental literacy and civic engagement so that people and communities can make informed decisions and take action toward a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable future. They equip educators, leaders, and learners with evidence-based tools and knowledge, to help people across ages and backgrounds understand environmental issues and take meaningful action.In this episode, we explore how the organization's mission has evolved, how it bridges research and practice, and how it's helping shape the future of environmental literacy in the face of climate change, social justice challenges, and digital transformation.Connect: https://naaee.org/
Send a textIf you're interested in teaching through food gardens but feel unsure which Oasis program fits your classroom, this episode walks you through the full Oasis suite so you can choose with confidence.Leila explains the differences between Oasis Classroom, Caja Oasis, and Oasis School, who each program is designed for, and how they support teachers at different stages, from indoor seed growing to full regenerative outdoor gardens.All Oasis programs are created for grades 3–8 and are designed to run during class time, with curriculum-connected garden learning that integrates science, language, and math outcomes.The Three Oasis ProgramsOasis Classroom An indoor growing program where students raise up to 20 varieties of food seedlings using a simple sunny window setup. No outdoor space or grow lights required. Best for teachers new to school gardening or classrooms without outdoor access.Caja Oasis An outdoor garden program using self-watering planters from The Growing Connection. Students grow indoors first, then transplant into planters while learning garden setup, site selection, and seasonal care. Best for schools ready for an easy, low-maintenance outdoor garden.Oasis School A full regenerative garden design and build program using Permaculture principles and techniques. Students design, construct, and plant a long-term outdoor food garden grown from their indoor seedlings. Best for committed upper-grade programs ready for a comprehensive garden project.What All Oasis Programs IncludeEvery Oasis program provides:Step-by-step lesson plansStudent booklets and classroom postersMaterials and supplies listsWeekly planting scheduleDirect coaching with LeilaPrograms run about 1–2 hours per week for 11-12 weeks and are intended to finish about two weeks before the end of the school year.Recommended Starting Point:If you're new to school gardens, Leila recommends beginning with Oasis Classroom. Indoor growing builds skills, confidence, and student success before expanding to outdoor gardens in later years through Caja Oasis or Oasis School.Enrollment Timeline:Registration for all three Oasis programs closes at the end of February. A K–2 program and an Earth Day mini-program will be available later in the spring.If you're ready to bring meaningful, curriculum-aligned food growing into your teaching, this episode will help you decide which Oasis path fits your classroom best.
It's been just over a year since Northern Illinois University closed its outdoor education campus high above the Rock River in Oregon, Illinois. While its future is still in limbo, a group called Together for Taft is making progress in its effort to bring it back as an environmental education center. WNIJ's Under Rocks podcast team stopped by the group's fundraiser recently, which was held across the river from the shuttered campus.
As we gear up to launch another season of incredible guest interviews we're revisiting a few of our most beloved episodes, starting with the fabulous Doug Tallamy.Over the course of his career, Doug has become a leading voice helping people understand why native plants matter and how simple and accessible it can be to support biodiversity right in your backyard. In this conversation, we talk about the power of keystone species, the remarkable progress he's made restoring native plants on his own Pennsylvania property, and the nonprofit he founded to inspire private landowners to be part of this growing movement.Dr. Tallamy has an incredible gift for breaking down big, complex environmental challenges into ideas that feel approachable rather than overwhelming, offering practical, common-sense ways to make a real and meaningful impact.Doug Tallamy is the T.A. Baker Professor of Agriculture in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, and the author of more than 100 publications, including Bringing Nature Home, The Living Landscape, Nature's Best Hope, and his most recent book, The Nature of Oaks.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
Host: Morgan Rossway Guest: Abram Herman Air date: Dec 11, 2025
Did you know that food is more than medicine? Join Food Sleuth Radio host and Registered Dietitian, Melinda Hemmelgarn for her conversation with Kamyar Enshayan, PhD, former Director of The Center for Energy & Environmental Education at the University of Northern Iowa. Enshayan describes food system failures and solutions, and encourages us to treasure the farmers and those who produce our food in ways that protect public health and our environment. He advocates for reclaiming regional agriculture and food systems. Read a sample of his opinion editorials here: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/columnists/iowa-view/2025/10/04/iowa-cancer-carcinogens-take-action/86463061007/ ; https://www.thegazette.com/guest-columnists/immigrants-make-life-richer/Related Websites: https://ceee.uni.edu/
Amy Boros and Shari Insley teach middle school science in different parts of the state, but they share a passion for bringing the real world into their classrooms for their students. Over the summer, the Perrysburg Education Association member and the North Olmsted Education Association member shared grant funding to travel far out into the real world for a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience that will enhance their students' learning for years to come. On this episode, they share how they're using what they saw and did in Iceland to help their students learn and grow in Ohio, and their advice for other educators who want to experience this kind of real-world professional development for themselves.SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS | Click here to see some of Shari's photos from the Fund for Teachers fellowship in Iceland. Click here to see Amy's highlights from the trip. EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITIES | Amy and Shari mentioned several grants and learning opportunities available to Ohio science educators. See the following links for more information about some of them:Fund For Teachers Grant Teacher Air Camp Yellowstone Educator Opportunity Summer 2026 Amy and Shari also shared an OEA Technology Grant to buy cameras and go pros to use on their trip and in their classrooms back home. Please note, OEA is in the process of redeveloping and streamlining the Affiliate Grant Program, and as part of the transition, no applications are being accepted for Technology Grants for the 2025-26 cycle. Make sure you listen to Episode 16 of Public Education Matters to learn more on the OEA grants being offered right now.SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS | If you'd like to share your feedback on the Public Education Matters podcast, including your ideas for what you'd like to hear about - or talk about - on future episodes, please email educationmatters@ohea.org. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Amy Boros, Perrysburg Education Association memberAmy Boros teaches 5th and 6th grade Science at Hull Prairie Intermediate School in Perrysburg. She has experience in classroom teaching at the elementary, middle school and collegiate levels; educational classroom technology; grant researching, authoringand evaluation, as well as educational consulting and conference presentations in both mathematics and science. With degrees from Bowling Green State University and the University of Toledo, Amy is currently in her 30th year in education.Amy is an accomplished grant writer who has been awarded thousands of dollars in grants for her classroom, school, district, and outside organizations. In addition, Amy has authored several articles about middle school science education in Science Scope Journal and Science and Children Journal, publications of The National Science Teachers Association.In 2019, Amy was invited to participate in an extensive research project onboard the Lake Guardian, an EPA research vessel on Lake Erie; selected as one of 15 educators to collect data alongside scientists. While on board, she evaluated the presence ofmicroplastics, toxic algae and microbial organisms in surface water and sediment throughout Lake Erie's basins.She continues to work alongside scientists by helping with research, most recently in Costa Rica and Yellowstone National Park.Amy was awarded the 2022 President's Innovation Award in Environmental Education, a joint award from the White House and the EPA for her environmental education work inside and outside of the classroom.Shari Insley, North Olmsted Education Association memberShari Insley is a middle school math and science teacher for North Olmsted City Schools with 20 years of experience in education. Of her 20 years in education, the past 18 years have been dedicated to North Olmsted, and her first 2 years were spent teaching in Gallup, New Mexico.Shari earned a B.S. in Middle Childhood Education in Mathematics and Science and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Teaching from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. In addition to her teaching expertise, Shari was honored as the recipient of the 2024 Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators. She has also served on the Strategic Planning Committee for the Science Education Council of Ohio the past 2 years.Since 2016, Shari has dedicated her summers to participating in educator courses to expand her knowledge of freshwater ecosystems in the Great Lakes. She has taken part in grant opportunities through Ohio Sea Grant at The Ohio State University's Stone Laboratory, sailed aboard the R/V Lake Guardian with the EPA, and worked with the Gelfand STEM Center at Case Western Reserve University. Most recently, Shari was awarded a Fund for Teachers grant to travel to Iceland in the summer of 2025, where she explored the country's unique geothermal and glacial environments to enrich her environmental science curriculum.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. S...
Earthkeepers: A Circlewood Podcast on Creation Care and Spirituality
In this engaging conversation, Forrest Inslee, Jason Lyle, and Mark Warren delve into the profound relationship between humans and nature, exploring themes of survival skills, environmental education, and the importance of solitude in reconnecting with the natural world. They discuss Mark's teaching methods, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of ecosystems and the gifts nature provides. The conversation also touches on personal stories, including Mark's experiences living off the grid for two years in a tipi, and the significance of moments shared with wildlife, ultimately highlighting the mystery and beauty of nature. Mark Warren's booksMedicine Bow Wilderness SchoolJason Lyle's organization, Adventures in RecoveryForrest's interview with Jason, episode 132 Finding Wholeness in Wilderness AdventureTakeaways· Men struggle to find their identity in today's world.· Teaching about nature fosters a deeper connection to the environment.· Understanding ecosystems is crucial for conservation efforts.· Solitude in nature helps individuals reconnect with their true selves.· Experiencing nature can lead to profound personal insights.· The relationship between humans and nature is essential for well-being.· Teaching survival skills can empower individuals and communities.· Nature provides gifts that we often take for granted.· Personal stories can illustrate the beauty of nature's mysteries.· Environmental education can inspire hope for future generations. Keywordsnature, survival skills, ecosystems, human connection, environmental education, solitude, coaching, historical fiction, conservation, personal growth, engaging mystery, stalking skills, hunting, finding unique purpose, calling Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple
Send us a textSchool-based nature educator Kyra Stephenson shares how she developed the nature-based learning program at her school in New York and shares stories about how this program promotes learning with her students.
For the final episode of 2025, Host Seth Stephenson sits down with the Executive Director of the Arkansas Environmental Education Association Sophia Stephenson. The two talk about the role the association has in making sure teachers around the state have the tools they need to provide environmental education to students around the state. For more information on AEEA, CLICK HERE. You can also look at the resources available in Arkansas with their Resource Directory.Thank you to our sponsors this month F&W Forestry! You can find more information on them HERE.You can find more music from Some Guy Named Robb/Robb McCormick on Spotify or by visiting https://www.sgnrobb.com/.For more information about the Arkansas Forestry Association visit arkforests.org.
In Pennsylvania, every state park has its purpose. Allegheny Islands shows people what undeveloped islands once looked like on the river. Colton Point features stunning views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. And Pine Grove Furnace highlights the iron making industry crucial to Pennsylvania and America's growth.But are there any places set aside for learning and study. As it turns out, there is. One such place is Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center.Located in Berks County, Nolde Forest was established as the first environmental education center operated by DCNR's Bureau of State Parks in the 1970s. It is dedicated to helping visitors and community members develop sound environmental ethics based upon science.The park has provided a wide variety of nature-based educational programs for students, teachers, organizations and families. Students take part in guided, hands-on activities that let them explore unique ecosystems and deepen their awareness, appreciation and understanding of the natural environment.Nolde Forest also functions as an outdoor laboratory for biologists, college students and natural resource professionals conducting a wide range of environmental studies and research projects. Topics that have been studied in the park include everything from water quality and songbirds to small mammals and reptiles. But I know what you're thinking, “Christian, bubbie, I'm not a child or a scientist. Is there anything for me there?” Don't worry, I got you, player. As much as Nolde Forest is about serious study and learning, it also about recreation. The park has hiking trails, historic structures, ponds, streams and more to explore. On this episode, I speak with Brent Erb. Brent is the center manager at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center. Be sure to support our 2025 sponsors:Keystone Trails AssociationPurple Lizard MapsPennsylvania Parks and Forests FoundationSisters' SunflowersSupport the showVisit our website to learn more about the podcast, to purchase merch and to find out about our incredible sponsors. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected. Hosting, production and editing: Christian AlexandersenMusic: Jon SauerGraphics: Matt Davis
In a time of deep political division and environmental crisis, what would it look like to design a democracy that's truly in harmony with the natural world?In this episode, we revisit a powerful 2022 conversation with David Orr, Professor of Practice at Arizona State University, editor of Democracy in a Hotter Time, and one of the leading voices at the intersection of ecology, education, and politics.Orr challenges us to think beyond short-term fixes and consider how a “biophilic democracy” rooted in care for each other and the planet could transform the way we live and govern. We explore why democracies fail, how our brains are wired for both division and connection, and how education might help us build a more resilient and compassionate society.Show Notes:Democracy in a Hotter Time: Climate Change and Democratic Transformation, edited by David W. OrrDemocracy Unchained: How To Rebuild Government For The People, edited by David W. Orr, Andrew Gumbel, Bakari Kitwana, and William S. BeckerDangerous Years: Climate Change, the Long Emergency, and the Way Forward by David OrrDemocracy in a Hotter Time, presentation at Elon University (YouTube)Design with Nature by Ian L. McHargThe Biophilia Hypothesis, edited by E.O. Wilson and Stephen R. KellertDr. David Orr and Dr. Miranda Yaver on the Stand Up! With Pete Dominick PodcastChildren & Nature NetworkLast Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder by Richard LouvDoughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st Century Economist by Kate RaworthKeywords: David Orr, biophilic democracy, nature and politics, ecological design, climate crisis, democracy reform, environmental education, sustainability, biophilia, civic engagement, ecological literacy, long-term thinking, political polarization, community resilience, democratic transformation, environmental ethics, nature connection, systems thinking, education and ecology, hope and renewal, doughnut economics, circular economyBiophilic 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
In this powerful National Coming Out Day episode, Rick Clemons sits down with Brian Bond, CEO of PFLAG National, to talk about the organization's 52-year mission of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. From the history of PFLAG to personal coming out stories and the creation of affirming spaces across America, Brian shares how the movement has grown and why community support still matters more than ever, and how you as gay men over 40 can support and benefit from PFLAG Listeners will walk away with inspiration, resources, and encouragement to live authentically and help others do the same. Three Takeaways: The Power of Family Support – Why parents, siblings, and chosen families are critical in the coming-out journey. PFLAG's Expanding Impact – How 40+ new chapters are creating affirming spaces in small towns nationwide. Hope, Healing, and Humanity – Brian's personal stories of finding support, faith, and resilience in unexpected places. About Brian Brian K. Bond, a native of rural Missouri, joined PFLAG National in 2019. Under his leadership, the organization has experienced unprecedented growth at a time when LGBTQ+ people and those who love them are under assault in every corner of the country. This includes suing multiple states, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott for his abuse investigations into parents of transgender children, the first time in PFLAG's 50-year history the organization has served as a plaintiff in such a case. With an extensive background in constituency outreach and coalition bridge-building, Brian has also strengthened PFLAG National's deep commitment to ensuring PFLAG is a place where every family belongs. This includes the creation of PFLAG Connects: Communities, a safe, virtual monthly meeting space for families from typically underrepresented and marginalized communities. He also gained the commitment of the PFLAG National Board of Directors to invest in minority-owned depository institutions, a commitment to DEI that internationally recognized nonprofit leadership expert Joan Garry called, “…one of the most creative diversity and inclusion initiatives ever.” Prior to joining PFLAG National, Brian served in the Obama Administration as Deputy Director for the White House Office of Public Engagement and primary liaison for the LGBTQ community, the first to serve in that role. He also served in the Environmental Protection Agency as Associate Administrator for Public Engagement and Environmental Education. Prior to these roles, he served as the Executive Director of the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund; the Coalitions Director for the Climate Action Campaign in Washington D.C., and as Deputy CEO for the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 2024, President Biden appointed Brian to the non-partisan President's Commission on White House Fellows. Connect With Brian Website Instagram Donate to PFLAG Hey Guys, Check This Out! Are you a guy who keeps struggling to do that thing? You know the thing you keep telling yourself and others you're going to do, but never do? Then it's time to get real and figure out why. Join the 40 Plus: Gay Men Gay Talk, monthly chats. They...
Tallianna Richey-Miller and Nate Fairchild join the Exchange.
The Urban Coyote Research Project is an ongoing 25-year project studying coyotes in the Chicagoland area. Join Chris Anchor, wildlife biologist for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, as he discusses his 40-year career in wildlife management and the insights we've gained from this long-term research project. Learn more about Urban Wildlife: Research at the Forest Preserves of Cook CountyThe Urban Coyote Research ProjectIDNR's Living with Wildlife WebsiteShare your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn't cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us your question or share your everyday nature observation with us at go.illinois.edu/EEconnect, and we may share it in a future blog or podcast.Questions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu Subscribe to our NewsletterCheck out our BlogSee the Everyday Environment Archives
Fish hatcheries are an important tool for the heritage and recreation of Illinois wildlife. Join Kayleigh Smith, Outreach specialist for the IDNR Jake Wolf Memorial Fish Hatchery as she discusses the work at the fish hatchery and how it support conservation of Illinois wildlife. Share your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn't cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us your question or share your everyday nature observation with us at go.illinois.edu/EEconnect, and we may share it in a future blog or podcast.Questions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu Subscribe to our NewsletterCheck out our BlogSee the Everyday Environment Archives
Learn more at TheCityLife.org
The Arab community in Philadelphia is a mix of people from many countries, all with vibrant art, music, and culture to share. Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture serves as a hub for anyone who wants to learn about Arabic language and creative expression. Racquel Williams talks with several members of the Al-Bustan team about their mission and experiences as Arab people in America today. Then, on Shara in the City, The Water Shed is a new community space centered around art, education and the environment. Shara Dae Howard stops by their grand opening block party to see what it's all about. 00:00 Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture 28:10 Shara in the City at The Water Shed To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dr Scarlett Smash and Dr Craken chat to deep sea scientist Andrew Thaler about "The Last Hunt for the Jabberwock". Every 30 years th Emerald Moon rises and the fearsome Jabberwock comes back from the dead, threatening the rabbit and frog folk of The Warren. The book is available from: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/505687/The-Last-Hunt-for-the-Jabberwock-A-Feywild-Adventure-in-Ecologic-Succession Contact info@absolutelysmashingllc.com for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes Music credits By Jolly Shore Leave "Al For Me Grog (Trad.)" HandsomeForrune-FE (Adapted Lyrics by Taran Christen : Musical Arrangement by K. Ryan Hart) Represented by Rebellious Entertainment Dr Scarlett Smash Instagram Dr Scarlett Smash TikTok Dr Craken MacCraic Instagram MCHH Instagram MCHH Facebook Dr Scarlett Smash YouTube
What’s Up, Interpreters? A Podcast from the National Association for Interpretation
CJ Greco (they/she) is a nonbinary transwoman, activist, and naturalist from Chicago, Illinois, who is the guest editor of the current issue of NAI's Legacy magazine, "Interpreting Beyond the Binary." They have been working in informal conservation education for most of their life, starting as a youth volunteer 18 years ago. CJ currently works as the Teen Programs Manager at Lincoln Park Zoo. In 2024, CJ was announced as a part of the North American Association of Environmental Education's Environmental Educators 30 Under 30 Class of 2024.
Rob Law is a musician and composer with decades of experience in the music industry. He has composed music for films and advertising campaigns. Rob is also a podcaster, a storyteller, and an advocate for outdoor learning. In this episode, Rob and I talk about The Creek Kids, his podcast for children inspired by the radio plays from the Golden Age of Radio.The Creek Kids on PodbeanRob Law (website) AUDIO SAMPLES (in order of appearance):Lux. “Lux Radio Theater - Single Episodes : Old Time Radio Researchers Group : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive.” Internet Archive, 2025. https://archive.org/details/OTRR_Lux_Radio_Theater_Singles. Sample is from "Our Vines Have Tender Grapes.' https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/The Mystery of the Flood: The Creek Kids. Produced by Rob Law. Used with permission.Campbells Creek Soundtrail. Produced by Rob Law. Used with permission. CREDITS:Producer: Tania MarienMusic: So Far So Close by Jahzzar is licensed under a Attribution-ShareAlike License;SOLO ACOUSTIC GUITAR by Jason Shaw is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.Subscribe to Transferable Solutions.Contact Us
"Give Outdoor Learning" is a first of its kind, statewide campaign that creates nature-based outings for the public. And because many programs are at risk due to budget cuts, it's also a fundraising campaign similar to Colorado Gives Day. CPR's Jenny Brundin speaks with an organizer from the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education and two young adults who share how nature has changed them. Then, five years after a state law took effect, why is it still a challenge to track use of force by Colorado law enforcement? And later, sorting out senior living options with Aging Matters.
Episode 342: Healsville Sanctuary: Creating Habitats Luke Boyle is the Horticulture Manager at Healesville Sanctuary in Victoria, Australia—a leading conservation zoo nestled in native bushland, dedicated to protecting and showcasing Australia's unique wildlife. We chat about the incredible work Luke and his team are doing to ensure the sanctuary is not just a safe and enriching haven for animals, but also an inspiring and welcoming place for human visitors. Links Healesville Sanctuary – Official site (Zoos Victoria) Discover updates on their conservation projects, visitor information, and how to support their wildlife work: https://www.zoo.org.au/healesville/ Zoos Victoria “Fighting Extinction” Program Learn how Healesville Sanctuary is part of statewide efforts to protect and recover threatened species through breeding, habitat restoration, and research: https://www.zoo.org.au/fighting-extinction/ Helmeted Honeyeater Release (May 2025) Read about the recent release of critically endangered helmeted honeyeaters from Healesville into the wild—an inspiring milestone in their breeding program: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/09/helmeted-honeyeater-release-healesville-sanctuary-cardinia-south-east-victoria-breed-wild-population About Luke Boyle After completing a gardening apprenticeship at Swinburne University, Luke worked with various landscapers and gardeners and also at a local council managing reserves and remnant vegetation. Studying landscape design and construction at night school as well as a short course run by the national Trust called Save the Bush, inspired him to look at the protection and restoration of bushland as a career. Luke started at Healesville sanctuary in 1993 where he is the Curator of Horticulture presently Other episodes if you liked this one:
When it comes to climate anxiety, most of us swing between utter despair or self-protective numbness. In our doom-scrolling attention economy, these are natural, but not always helpful, responses.In this episode, Jennifer speaks with climate scholar, educator, and author of A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety Sarah Jaquette Ray to explore how we might move through the heaviest of climate emotions—without turning away, burning out, or losing touch with what we love.They explore:The toll of burnout and the unexpected clarity grief can bringWhat it takes to face the monster of climate chaosThe new texture of climate activism—intimate, relational, and imperfectGrounding practices to help us stay courageous and awake in ecological unravellingTogether, they reflect on the emotional and relational labor of holding space during collapse, the wisdom exchanged across generations, and the quiet courage it takes not to fix—but to animate activism with love.Links & resources—Learn more about Sarah Jaquette Ray's workGet A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety: How to Keep your Cool on a Warming PlanetGet Jennifer's Substack NewsletterFollow Jennifer on Instagram or LinkedIn Gratitude for this show's theme song Inside the House, composed by the talented Yukon musician, multi-instrumentalist and sound artist Jordy Walker. Artwork by the imaginative writer, filmmaker and artist Jon Marro.
The World Health Organisation has agreed a treaty looking at tackling the issue of future pandemics. It's hoped it will help to avoid some of the disorganisation and competition for resources like vaccines and personal protective equipment that were seen during the Covid-19 outbreak. Victoria Gill speaks to global health journalist Andrew Green from the World Health Assembly in Geneva to ask if this will help to make the world a safer, fairer place.Marnie Chesterton visits Kew Gardens in London to speak to some of the artists and scientists behind a new installation that's digitally recreated one of the site's most famous trees.As it's announced the iconic American children's TV programme Sesame Street is moving to Netflix, Victoria speaks to the programme's scientific advisor and Associate Professor of Elementary and Environmental Education at the University of Rhode Island, Sara Sweetman, about exactly how the likes of Elmo, Big Bird and the Cookie Monster go about informing young people about science.And Caroline Steel joins Victoria in the studio to look through the most fascinating highlights from the world's scientific discoveries this week. Presenter: Victoria Gill Producers: Clare Salisbury, Jonathan Blackwell, Dan Welsh Editor: Martin Smith Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth
Nature Nurtures: Mind, Body & SpiritExplore the profound connection between nature, play, and therapy and their impact on our development from infancy to adulthood. In this episode, we delve into how natural environments and therapeutic practices support and enhance our emotional, mental, and physical well-being at every stage of life.Through insightful interviews with experts, personal stories, and research-backed discussions, we explore the powerful role that nature-informed education and therapeutic play have on our growth and resilience. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or lifelong learner, this podcast offers valuable perspectives and practical tools to foster holistic development in ourselves and the communities around us.From playful interactions in childhood to therapeutic practices in later years, join us as we celebrate the transformative power of nature, play, and healing, empowering humans of all ages to thrive and grow.Objectives:- Define nature-informed education, play, and therapy. - Describe evidence of the benefits of nature for health and well-being across the lifespan. - Identify ways to promote health and well-being utilizing outdoor spacesAngela Rekers-Power, PhDAngela is an Associate Professor at St. Ambrose University, teaching in the School of Education teacher preparation program. She holds a BA in English and teaching licensure in secondary Language Arts. However, after teaching in a breeze-block high school in the late 1980s, she decided she needed to be outside more often than not! She completed her MSc in Environmental Education for Sustainability and spent the next 20 years working for a UK non-profit as a Forest School leader facilitating outdoor learning and play for learners of all ages and abilities. She also trained teaching staff to become Forest School and outdoor learning and play facilitators, and consulted in developing school grounds for learning. In 2020, Angela completed her PhD study of young children's participation in the classroom and in the woodlands, using ecological and developmental psychology theories for analysis. Angela McCombs, OTDAngie is the program director and senior lecturer at St. Ambrose University's Occupational Therapy program. Angie has been an occupational therapist for 17 years, primarily working with pediatrics across various settings. Her interest is in promoting social participation for children and youth within the community setting. Angie has completed trainings in outdoor learning environments from North Carolina State University and Outdoor Kids Occupational Therapy. Her bachelor's degree is in Health Sciences from Purdue University, and her clinical doctorate is from Washington University in St. Louis.
Dinah Awino Kawino is the founder and director of Akadi Eco and Mentorship Ventures.Akadi Eco is a consulting firm based in Kenya. It focuses on bringing environmental mentorship and sustainability solutions to educational and community spaces.This year, Akadi Eco is leading an initiative called Pendo Mazingira. Pendo Mazingira is Swahili for "Love Environment."Awino describes this program as “an eco-sensitivity mentorship program designed to cultivate a sense of environmental belonging through nature-based sensory experiences.” Pendo Mazingira serves both youth and adults.How is the program working?Let's find out. SUBSTACK: Pendo Mazingira Substack - AkadiEco and Mentorship Ventures KenyaPANEL DISCUSSION:Empowering Women in Science: Bridging Gaps and Building FuturesInteresting and honest conversation about being a woman in science. Awino's presentation begins at timestamp 57:22. Her presentation is titled, Empowering Women and Girls: Disrupting Fear-based Silence for Thriving Sustainability Science. This is a presentation by LIAISE.BOOK:Weaving a Green Future: Opportunities and Barriers in Textile Manufacturing in Kenya (Eliva Press, 2025)ARTICLES:Closing the Loop: A framework for tackling single-use plastic waste in the food and beverage industry through circular economy - a review (Journal of Environmental Management)Challenges and Opportunities for Green Transitions Adoption in Kenya's Textile Manufacturing Industry (Frontiers in Sustainability)Assessment of Green Growth Practices in the Textile Industry: A Study of Thika Cloth Mill and Rivatex in Kenya (East African Journal of Environment and Natural Resources)LEADERSHIP:The Green Embassy Kenya CREDITS:Producer: Tania MarienMusic: So Far So Close by Jahzzar is licensed under a Attribution-ShareAlike License;SOLO ACOUSTIC GUITAR by Jason Shaw is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.Subscribe to Transferable Solutions.Affiliate Relationships:Purchases that begin as a click through any Bookshop.org or Descript.com link (or ad) may result in a commission. TALATERRA is an affiliate of Bookshop.org. Connect with, and support, independent bookstores.TALATERRA is an affiliate of Descript.com. Edit audio and video as easily as you edit a typed document.Contact Us
In this episode of NDO Podcast, we visit with Beth Hill, North Dakota Forest Service outreach and education manager, about all the NDFS programs, the 1994 family forest, and the importance of getting kids outside.
Episode SummaryErin and Rachel travel 700 years into the future to discuss WALL-E (2008), Pixar's robot romance with an unintentionally anti-capitalist message. Fatphobia and misogyny make this dystopian tale unwatchable despite its endearing protagonist, striking animation, and moments of nostalgia. Episode BibliographyThe 81st Academy Awards | 2009. (2009, February 22). Oscars.org. https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2009Akers, D. (2008, June 9). Wall-E: A Movie With a Full Heart, or A Tribute to Justin. Spectrum. https://spectrummagazine.org/news/wall-e-movie-full-heart-or-tribute-justin/Allen, C. (2008, July 13). Wall-E doesn't say anything. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/la-op-allen13-2008jul13-story.htmlAnderson, C.T. (2012). Post-apocalyptic nostalgia: WALL-E, garbage, and American ambivalence toward manufactured goods. Literature Interpretation Theory, 23(3), 267-282, DOI: 10.1080/10436928.2012.703598Ball, S. (2009, January 23). Mr. Oscar, Tear Down This Wall! Andrew Stanton on How Animated Films are Pigeonholed -- and How Wall-E is Every Man. Newsweek. https://web.archive.org/web/20090204034311/http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/popvox/archive/2009/01/23/breaking-out-of-the-box-wall-e-director-andrew-stanton-on-the-oscars-the-blurring-of-the-line-between-animation-and-film-and-writing-strong-female-characterBandyk, M. (2009, January 22). Academy Awards Controversy: Wall-E Gets Snubbed For Best Picture Oscar. USNews. https://web.archive.org/web/20110717180938/http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/risky-business/2009/01/22/academy-awards-controversy-wall-e-gets-snubbed-for-best-picture-oscarBarbagallo, R. (2009). Design With a Purpose, an interview with Ralph Eggleston. Animation Art Conservation. https://www.animationartconservation.com/design-with-a-purpose%2c-an-interview-with-ralph-eggleston.htmlBeck, B. (2009). Don't make me laugh: People are funny in WALL-E and Tropic Thunder. Multicultural Perspectives, 11(2), 90-93. DOI: 10.1080/15210960903028768Bold, K. (2008, July 23). ‘WALL-E' and the professor. Today@UCI. https://web.archive.org/web/20080726230400/http://today.uci.edu/Features/profile_detail.asp?key=369Bose, M. (2017). Immaterial thoughts: Brand value, environmental sustainability, and WALL-E. Criticism, 59(2), 247-277. DOI: 10.13110/criticism.59.2.0247Caraway, K., & Caraway, B.R. (2020). Representing ecological crises in children's media: An analysis of The Lorax and Wall-E. Environmental Communication, 14(5), 686-697, DOI: 10.1080/17524032.2019.1710226Coconut Press. (2022, July 1). The Making of WALL-E: The Imperfect Lens (Disney Pixar video). YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8tlVs4r7zgDesowitz, B. (2009). Hello, WALL•E!: Pixar Reaches for the Stars. Animation World Magazine. https://web.archive.org/web/20090720073659/http://mag.awn.com/article_view.php?id=3682&page=allDisney Enterprises, Inc./Pixar. (2008, June 12). WALL-E Press Kit. Disney. https://web.archive.org/web/20110711103245/http://adisney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/wall-e/media/downloads/WALLEProductionNotes.pdfEbert, R. (2008, June 26). Droid Story. Roger Ebert. https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/wall-e-2008Film Review: WALL-E. (2008, October 1). BBC. http://news.bbc.co.uk/cbbcnews/hi/newsid_7500000/newsid_7504500/7504559.stmFlaig, P. (2016). Slapstick after Fordism: WALL-E, automatism and Pixar's fun factory. Animation: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 11(1), 59-74. DOI: 10.1177/1746847715625017Frick, A. (2008, July 1). Right-Wing Apoplectic Over Pixar's WALL-E: ‘Malthusian Fear Mongering,' ‘Fascistic Elements'. Think Progress. https://archive.thinkprogress.org/right-wing-apoplectic-over-pixars-wall-e-malthusian-fear-mongering-fascistic-elements-92e1523a8a6e/Gaffey, A.J. (2018). Flip the switch: Virtue, programming, and the prospect of automatic agency in Wall-E. Southern Communication Journal, 83(1), 41-56. DOI: 10.1080/1041794X.2017.1399434Glint, J.M.S., & Bhuvaneswari, G. (2025). Memory, Social Identity and Technology at Odds: The Implication on Physical Well‑Being in Wall‑E. Human Arenas. DOI: 10.1007/s42087-024-00471-wHill, J. (2008, June 17). When it comes to the retail world, Speed Racer whomps WALL-E. Jim Hill Media. https://jimhillmedia.com/when-it-comes-to-the-retail-world-speed-racer-whomps-wall-e/Hobbes, M., & Gordon, A. [Hosts]. (2022, May 31). MP Watch Part: Wall-E and Spy [Audio podcast episode]. In Maintenance Phase. https://www.maintenancephase.com/Horn, S., & Moro, E. (2008, April 7). Wall•E Preview. IGN. https://web.archive.org/web/20080411234805/http://movies.ign.com/articles/865/865021p4.htmlHuxley, T. (2008, November 13). Q&A With WALL•E's Ben Burtt. Pixar Planet. https://pixarplanet.com/blog/qa-with-walles-ben-burtt/Justin Wright. (n.d.). Wikipedia. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin_WrightKorfiatis, K., Photiou, M., & Petrou, S. (2020). Effects of ecoanimations on nine and twelve year old children's environmental conceptions: How WALL-E changed young spectators' views of earth and environmental protection. The Journal of Environmental Education, 51(5), 381-394. DOI: 10.1080/00958964.2020.1747965 Lloyd, A. (2023, December 1). Counteracting Bone and Muscle Loss in Microgravity. NASA. https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/counteracting-bone-and-muscle-loss-in-microgravity/Mattie, S. (2014). WALL-E on the problem of technology. Perspectives on Political Science, 43(1), 12-20. DOI: 10.1080/10457097.2013.784576Murray, R.L., & Heumann, J.K. (2011). That's all folks? Ecocritical readings of American animated features. University of Nebraska Press. Ness, M. (2017, September 28). Robots in Love: WALL-E. Reactor. https://reactormag.com/robots-in-love-wall-e/Pixar. (2016a, October 16). Robo-Everything | WALL•E | Disney•Pixar. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqquKFkH-iI&list=PLLhVNqe2jAb8X9ocSkynckJmcP5y0B4Vc&index=9Pixar. (2016b, October 19). Captain's Log | WALL•E | Disney•Pixar. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRUoIOkp9AU&list=PLLhVNqe2jAb8X9ocSkynckJmcP5y0B4Vc&index=5Pixar. (2016c, October 19). Live Action | WALL•E | Disney•Pixar. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQh4z-j0ScI&list=PLLhVNqe2jAb8X9ocSkynckJmcP5y0B4Vc&index=15Pixar. (2016d, October 19). Trash Planet | WALL•E | Disney•Pixar. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmnSYmqpIEY&list=PLLhVNqe2jAb8X9ocSkynckJmcP5y0B4Vc&index=14Pixar. (2016e, October 19). WALL•E and EVE | WALL•E | Disney•Pixar. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-AYOhIYZlQ&list=PLLhVNqe2jAb8X9ocSkynckJmcP5y0B4Vc&index=12Potokar, S. (2017, March 8). Wall-E Animation Foley and Sound Design. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IPxIvbc_csPrice, D. A. (2009). The Pixar Touch: The Making of a Company. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.Recording Academy. (2025). 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards. GRAMMY.com. https://www.grammy.com/awards/51st-annual-grammy-awardsRoberts, S. (2008). Andrew Stanton Interview, Wall-E. Movies Online. https://web.archive.org/web/20080626061223/http://www.moviesonline.ca/movienews_14899.htmlRobinson, T. (2008, June 26). Andrew Stanton. A.V. Club. https://web.archive.org/web/20080908045321/http://www.avclub.com/content/interview/andrew_stantonStanton, A. (Director). (2008). WALL-E [Film]. Pixar Animation Studios.Suellentrop, C. (2008, June 30). Another Brick in the ‘WALL-E'. The New York Times. https://archive.nytimes.com/opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/30/another-brick-in-the-wall-e/Tranter, P., & Sharpe, S. (2012). Disney-Pixar to the rescue: Harnessing positive affect for enhancing children's active mobility. Journal of Transport Geography, 20, 34-40. DOI: 10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2011.04.006van Oosterwijk, I., & McCarthy, W. (2023). Once upon a dystopian time: The portrayal and perception of environmentalism in Pixar's Finding Nemo and WALL-E. Quarterly Review of Film and Video, 40(7), 848-873. DOI: 10.1080/10509208.2022.2049181 WALL-E. (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WALL-EWALL-E. (n.d.). Box Office Mojo. https://www.boxofficemojo.com/release/rl3615065601/Willman, C. (2008, July 14). 'WALL-E': How he found 'Hello, Dolly!' Entertainment Weekly. https://ew.com/article/2008/07/14/wall-e-how-he-found-hello-dolly/Yates, M. (2015). Labor as “nature,” nature as labor. Interdisciplinary Studies in Literature and Environment, 22(3), 525-543.
Christina Carter is the author, illustrator, and founder of Gumnut Trails—a unique collection of Outdoor Adventure Guides that help families rediscover the joy of exploring nature together.In this episode, we dive into how Christina's own nature-rich childhood inspired her to create the “Lonely Planet of childhood adventures”—starting with four beautifully illustrated Guides across Melbourne.Each Adventure Guide transforms an ‘ordinary' walk into an immersive experience using storytelling, creative missions, and joyful illustrations. Designed to be interactive, screen-free, and deeply local, Gumnut Trails helps families connect with the natural spaces around them in fun, meaningful ways.Every guide is built around the history, features, and hidden stories of each location. Months of on-the-ground exploring, researching, writing, and illustrating go into each one—making them more than just ready-made adventures, but true works of art.What began as one parent's mission to capture the magic of a childhood spent outdoors is now a growing movement.So how did it all come together—and what's next for Gumnut Trails? Let's find out.Website: www.gumnuttrails.com.auFollow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gumnut_trails/ CREDITS:Producer: Tania MarienMusic: So Far So Close by Jahzzar is licensed under a Attribution-ShareAlike License;SOLO ACOUSTIC GUITAR by Jason Shaw is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.Subscribe to Transferable Solutions.Affiliate Relationships:Purchases that begin as a click through any Bookshop.org or Descript.com link (or ad) may result in a commission. TALATERRA is an affiliate of Bookshop.org. Connect with, and support, independent bookstores.TALATERRA is an affiliate of Descript.com. Edit audio and video as easily as you edit a typed document.Contact Us
Creating a plan to act on regular tune-ups on your farm can result in money savings and improved relationships with industry allies. Focus on Energy shares the unforeseen benefits of farm equipment tune-ups, highlighting the critical role of proactive equipment maintenance in improving energy efficiency and farm operations. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Melissa Beeksma, discuss the following topics: Ideal timeframe for tune-ups Dairy refrigeration, other tune-ups Grain dryer tune-ups Who to get involved Benefits with industry allies within the tune-up program Significant money savings Sensors to track equipment performance Time commitment from the farmer Incentives Energy efficiency trends in the future Special thanks to Focus on Energy for sponsoring this episode. About the guest Melissa Beeksma has been working in the energy efficiency field for over 18 years. She is the Technical Quality Lead for Focus on Energy's Agriculture and Schools and Government Programs. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a Master's Degree in Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Environmental Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Melissa is a Certified Energy Manager and Certified Lighting Efficiency Professional through the Association of Energy Engineers. In 2024, she co-authored the Agricultural Maintenance Benefits White Paper: The Success and Unforeseen Benefits of Farm Equipment Tune-Ups, highlighting the critical role of proactive equipment maintenance in improving energy efficiency and farm operations. Resources Agricultural Maintenance Benefits White Paper: The Success and Unforeseen Benefits of Farm Equipment Tune-Ups Energy Advisor Map Agricultural: Improving your bottom-line resources Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.
The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on April 30. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Melissa Beeksma with Focus on Energy, shares the unforeseen benefits of farm equipment tune-ups, highlighting the critical role of proactive equipment maintenance in improving energy efficiency and farm operations. Special thanks to Focus on Energy for sponsoring this episode. About the guest Melissa Beeksma has been working in the energy efficiency field for over 18 years. She is the Technical Quality Lead for Focus on Energy's Agriculture and Schools and Government Programs. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a Master's Degree in Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Environmental Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Melissa is a Certified Energy Manager and Certified Lighting Efficiency Professional through the Association of Energy Engineers. In 2024, she co-authored the Agricultural Maintenance Benefits White Paper: The Success and Unforeseen Benefits of Farm Equipment Tune-Ups, highlighting the critical role of proactive equipment maintenance in improving energy efficiency and farm operations. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.
D and D can help with environmental education by creating immersive, story-driven learning experiences that engage students on a deeper level. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Andrew Thaler, who's using Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) to teach environmental concepts in a way that feels more like play than a lesson. Through world-building, role-playing, and strategic storytelling, students aren't just learning—they're adventuring through ecosystems, facing climate-related challenges, and discovering how natural systems work in real time. Environmental education is often limited to textbooks and lectures, but D&D turns abstract concepts into living, breathing quests. Whether it's battling pollution monsters or restoring magical coral reefs, players develop a better understanding of ecological relationships and environmental issues while having fun. If you're a teacher, game master, or environmental advocate, this episode will show you how fantasy and education can combine to create a lasting impact in and out of the classroom. Campaign: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/505687/The-Last-Hunt-for-the-Jabberwock Maps: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/505688/The-Last-Hunt-for-the-Jabberwock-Big-Pack-of-Maps SFS Articles: https://www.southernfriedscience.com/10-tips-for-running-a-dungeons-dragons-campaign-for-education/ https://www.southernfriedscience.com/hunt-the-jabberwock-defend-the-warren-save-the-forest-a-dd-5e-adventure-for-environmental-educators/ https://www.southernfriedscience.com/twas-brillig-building-a-dungeons-dragons-campaign-for-adventurers-in-and-out-of-the-classroom/ Discount code: https://www.dmsguild.com/browse.php?discount=943bb77e1f Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
On the women who've designated themselves as voices for the Earth and prioritizing joy amidst the truths of our times. (0:00) - Introduction to Mallory McDuff and the Podcast (1:52) - Hannah Herman's Connection to Mallory McDuff (4:49) - The Power of Climate Storytelling (6:20) - Colette Pichon Battle's Story (12:03) - Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson's Focus on Ocean Justice (24:50) - Mari Copeny's Activism in Flint, Michigan (36:11) - Kendra Pinto's Fight Against Fracking in New Mexico (44:55) - Conclusion and Call to Action Mallory McDuff discovered the field of Environmental Education as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Central African Republic, where she saw the critical importance of integrating local communities in conservation. She's the author of four books examining the intersection of spirituality and the climate crisis: Natural Saints (OUP, 2010), Sacred Acts (New Society Press, 2012), Our Last Best Act: Planning for the End of Our Lives to Protect the People and Places We Love (Broadleaf Books, 2021), and Love Your Mother: 50 States, 50 Stories, and 50 Women United for Climate Justice (Broadleaf Books, 2023). She also co-authored a book for practitioners Conservation Education and Outreach Techniques (OUP, 2015) and written more than 50 essays for the New York Times, Washington Post, WIRED, Newsweek, and more. In this episode, we discuss Love Your Mother. Much of her writing draws on her life at Warren Wilson College, where she lives with her two daughters. In her classes, students collaborate with diverse community partners—from youth to senior citizens—to teach and learn together using the forests, farms, and fields of the campus.
Send Crystal a text letting her know what you thought about the show!This is another episode of the Forces for Nature, EarthX Conference series!What if the way we approach learning could shape not just our own success, but the future of our planet? In this episode, I sit down with James Keyes—former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster—who believes that education isn't just about getting a degree; it's the key to freedom, progress, and solving some of our biggest challenges. But here's the catch: many of us stop actively learning after school, relying instead on the information that already fits our worldview. That's where we get stuck. In this conversation, we explore how fear is weaponized to keep people divided, why knowledge alone isn't enough to change minds, and how we can shift the way we communicate environmental solutions to be more inviting, less polarizing, and ultimately more effective.Whether you're an entrepreneur, an activist, or simply someone who wants to engage more critically with the world, this episode will challenge how you think about learning, decision-making, and even the way you advocate for change.HighlightsWhy fear—not lack of information—is at the root of many societal and environmental challenges.How militant ignorance keeps people from seeing solutions (and how to avoid falling into that trap ourselves).The three skills you actually need to be a lifelong learner—far beyond the classroom.What YOU Can DoChallenge your own biases: Are you truly open to new perspectives, or just reinforcing what you already believe?Shift your messaging: When advocating for change, focus on shared values and opportunities rather than battles and division.Reignite your curiosity: Instead of assuming you already know the answer, start asking why more often.ResourcesEducation is Freedom: The Future is in Your Hands by James Keyes. Jame's website James Keyes' TEDx Talk on the power of learning Want a free guide to help you become a force for nature? Get it HERE!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review it! This helps to boost its visibility. Hit me up on Instagram and Facebook and let me know what actions you have been taking. Adopting just one habit can be a game-changer because imagine if a billion people also adopted that! What difference for the world are you going to make today?
Join us as Andrew Conboy, an ISA certified arborist famously known as Andrew the Arborist, captivates us with his journey through urban forestry and ecological restoration. Andrew's passion for integrating native flora into cityscapes shines as he addresses the challenges of urban stressors like soil compaction and pollution. Explore how underutilized species such as swamp white oak and post oak offer hope for climate adaptation in urban areas. From historical anecdotes about the resilience of honey locusts to the intriguing notion of urban foraging, Andrew sheds light on the potential of trees to transform our cities. The heart of the episode beats with Andrew's insights on community-based environmental stewardship. Discover how the seeds of Colonial Canopy Trees were planted, nurturing a grassroots initiative to tackle invasive species and promote native tree planting. Andrew shares the power of starting small and the joy of building community connections, highlighting stories where volunteers bridge generational and cultural divides. His experiences illustrate that meaningful environmental change starts with local action and collaboration, with each tree planted and invasive weed pulled embodying a step toward a healthier ecosystem. This episode also ventures into the digital realm, where Andrew discusses the impact of long-form video content in raising awareness about native plants and urban forestry. Reflecting on his transition from a gaming content creator to an ecological educator, Andrew emphasizes the role of storytelling in engaging communities. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are invited to participate in environmental restoration efforts, understanding that the fusion of personal narratives and ecological action can truly reshape our urban landscapes. Check out Andrew's nonprofit, Colonial Canopy Trees, here: https://colonialcanopytrees.wordpress.com/ For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Urban Forestry, Ecological Restoration, Native Flora, Cityscapes, Urban Stressors, Soil Compaction, Pollution, Climate Adaptation, Invasive Species, Native Tree Planting, Community-Based Environmental Stewardship, Grassroots Initiative, Honey Locust, Urban Foraging, Digital Content, Environmental Education, Community Connections, Microvolunteering, Invasive Weed Management, Environmental Change
What if the honey locust tree holds the key to transforming American agriculture yet remains an untapped treasure? Join us as we explore this remarkable tree's profound historical significance and unique attributes. We guide you through its pre-human landscapes and symbiotic relationship with Pleistocene megafauna, shedding light on how its fearsome thorns might have served as tattoo tools for indigenous peoples. With insights from Dr. Robert Warren, we unravel the intriguing journey of the honey locust, drawing comparisons to the Kentucky coffee tree and pondering its adaptation to wet regions through human intervention. In a lighthearted and anecdotal manner, we delve into the quirky connections between anachronistic trees like the honey locust and Kentucky coffee tree, alongside their relationships with now-extinct species. Discover the indigenous significance of the honey locust's sweet pulp, a sugar alternative in warmer regions, and laugh with us as we draw amusing parallels with modern-day treats like candy corn. While we acknowledge the mysteries surrounding ancient methods of processing honey locust pulp, our light-hearted exploration invites you to imagine historical storage practices and potential uses. The honey locust is more than just a historical icon; it is a beacon of agricultural potential. Uncover its promising varieties, like Millwood, identified in the 1930s, and their potential for livestock feed and ethanol production. We recount the efforts of researchers like Dr. James Hanover to unlock the tree's capabilities for sustainable farming systems. Whether it's silvopasture or energy farming, the honey locust fits seamlessly into modern agriculture, offering ecological benefits and versatility. We invite you to join us in supporting ongoing research into this fascinating crop and perhaps even become a part of our knowledge-sharing community. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Urban Forestry, Ecological Restoration, Native Flora, Cityscapes, Urban Stressors, Soil Compaction, Pollution, Climate Adaptation, Invasive Species, Native Tree Planting, Community-Based Environmental Stewardship, Grassroots Initiative, Honey Locust, Urban Foraging, Digital Content, Environmental Education, Community Connections, Micro-volunteering, Invasive Weed Management, Environmental Change