Podcasts about Last Child

273. Wise Living: Why to Get Outside and Travel and Read Aloud with Amber O'Neal Johnston   “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17 NIV   *Transcription Below*   Amber O'Neal Johnston is an author, speaker, and Charlotte Mason homeschooling mom who blends life-giving books and a culturally rich environment for her four children and others seeking to do the same. She recommends we offer children opportunities to see themselves and others reflected in their lessons, especially throughout their books, and she's known for sharing literary “mirrors and windows” on HeritageMom.com and @heritagemomblog. Amber is also the author of Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture and A Place to Belong, a guide for families of all backgrounds on raising kids to celebrate their heritage, community, and the world.   www.HeritageMom.com www.SoulSchoolBook.com www.APlaceToBelongBook.com www.instagram.com/heritagemomblog www.facebook.com/heritagemomblog   Thank You to Our Sponsor:  Sam Leman Eureka   Questions that We Discussed: Looking back, what would you say has helped to shape your children's character the most? What have you learned about the importance of getting our kids (and ourselves) out into nature? How do you actually make time to be a content creator and to also homeschool and travel and host?   Other Related Episodes from The Savvy Sauce: 53 Practical Life Tips with Blogger, Rach Kincaid 57 Implementing Bite-Size Habits That Will Change Your Life with Author, Blogger, Podcaster, and Speaker, Kat Lee 82 Traveling with Your Family with Katie Mueller 84 Ordering Your Priorities with Kat Lee 103 Making Family Memories with Jessica Smartt 200 Planting Seeds of Faith in Our Children with Courtney DeFeo 204 Charlotte Mason Inspired Mini-Series: A Delectable Education with Emily Kiser 207 Cultivating Character in Our Children with Cynthia Yanof 212 School Series: Benefits of Homeschooling with Jodi Mockabee 253 Low Tech Parenting with Erin Loechner   Connect with The Savvy Sauce Our Website, Instagram or Facebook    Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:09)   Laura Dugger: (0:11 - 2:01) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   The principles of honesty and integrity that Sam Leman founded his business on continue today over 55 years later at Sam Leman Chevrolet Inc. in Eureka. Owned and operated by the Burchie family, Sam Leman's in Eureka appreciates the support they've received from their customers all over central Illinois and beyond. Visit them today at LehmanGM.com.   Amber O'Neal Johnston is my fascinating guest for today. She's an author and speaker and coach and she's just chosen to live a very wise life as a wife and mother, and I think you're going to enjoy gleaning practical tips such as the benefits of getting our children out in nature regardless of their age. She has teens and makes this super practical for things that they would enjoy too, and she shares these incredible benefits of what happens when we simply step outdoors. She's also going to share approachable ways to introduce our family to great art and other cultures, and she gives us a fabulous book list, so, make sure you stay tuned through the end of the episode so that you can see some of the top books that she recommends. Finally, if you don't have a copy of her own latest release entitled Soul School, I highly recommend you purchase that today. Here's our chat.   Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Amber.   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (2:02 - 2:04) Thank you so much. I'm so happy to be here.   Laura Dugger: (2:04 - 2:14) Well, I'd love for you just to start us off and introduce us to your family, and will you just share a glimpse of your values and lifestyle?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (2:15 - 3:48) Absolutely. So, I live outside of Atlanta, Georgia with my husband Scott and our four children. We are just entering birthday season, but shortly they will be 16, 14, 12, and 10. The girls are the two oldest. The boys are the two youngest, and they've been homeschooled from the beginning, so, we're a homeschooling family. I'm originally from Illinois. My husband's originally from Ohio, but we met here in Atlanta at the High Museum of Art, which is really special. We are art loving, you know, fine arts loving, liberal arts loving family, and so, the idea that we met at the museum, I will just cherish that forever. I came to, before homeschooling, I was a stay-at-home mom, and prior to having children, I have an MBA, and I worked in corporate America in like marketing and advertising, and Scott comes from a similar background with the MBA, and he was doing work in that area too, so, we had that as a connection point, but I have always stayed home with the kids, and you know, our values are rooted in our Christian faith, and we're an African-American family, and so, we have values and cultural aspects that enter our home through that avenue as well. We are world travelers, so, we enjoy that as part of who we are, and I'm an author and a speaker, and I'm just a very happy homeschooler.   Laura Dugger: (3:48 - 4:12) I love that, and it sounds like such a rich and abundant life, and there's two little connections that I have to go back to. My husband and I had a date at that same museum. I love that you met your husband there. Oh wow, that's wild! And so, we met when we were in Atlanta, but live in Illinois now, so, which part of Illinois were you originally from?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (4:12 - 4:33) I'm from Elgin, Illinois. It's out past O'Hare Airport, and I was born and raised there. My parents were both public school principals there. My dad was principal of Elgin High, and there's actually an elementary school, Ron O'Neal Elementary School in Elgin, named after my father, so, that is where I'm from.   Laura Dugger: (4:33 - 4:46) Wow, okay, so, then even with that piece, your father being a principal, and then you said you've homeschooled since the beginning. Did you always anticipate you would homeschool, or what was your journey into that?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (4:47 - 7:15) Oh my gosh, never, and it's both of my parents were principals, so, that's wild. My grandfather was an elected school board official. My sister was an elected school board official, so, public school is just, you know, in my blood from the very beginning, and that's what I assumed I would do for my kids at first. Once Scott and I got married, and we had discussed it, we decided that I would stay home when they were little, and when they were old enough to go to school, I would go back to work, and my salary would pay for private Christian school tuition, and as the years, you know, months really came to fruition for my oldest, my husband started backpedaling, and he started talking this crazy talk about homeschooling. I'm like, that's a switcheroo for you. What are you talking about? I was like, that's weird. I don't want to do that. I don't feel called to do that. That does not seem like a comfortable space for me. I don't want my kids to endure that, and ultimately, I lacked confidence in that. I couldn't even articulate it. It felt scary, terrifying. Why would I take something so weighty into my own hands, and Scott was very persistent, and I can't even explain why he was so persistent about it, but I think to me, I feel like it was planted in him by the Lord, and he felt that this was the way he wanted to lead his family, and he did it so graciously because I was very resistant. He asked, would you please try it for one year, and if you are unhappy, you don't think it's right. I'll never ask you about it again, and that gave me a softer place to land where I felt like it wasn't signing up for a long-term commitment because I knew I was going to hate it, and I said, sure. I will do that, and oh, my gosh. It was the most amazing year, and I laugh now because my daughter was four, so, she's like four and turned five during that year, and so, she was so young, and people were like, well, what were you really doing, but I took it so seriously. I was doing all things, and I joined a homeschool support group, and I was reading about it, and I realized on Friday, I'm a stay-at-home mom, and on Monday, I took on this identity of a homeschooling mom, and it's just been a beautiful journey for us. I'm so thankful that the Lord led Scott in that way. He knew what was right, not just for our children, but for me, too, when I had no vision for it, and so, I'm just, you know, very grateful.   Laura Dugger: (7:16 - 7:30) I love that story. That's such an encouragement, and, okay, your oldest is turning 16, so, when you look back, what would you say has helped shape your children's character the most?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (7:32 - 9:29) Well, I think the time that we've all had to spend together, like intense amounts of time, so, not just quality time or quantity time, but both, and I think that there's nothing else I could have done that could replace that, so, I think that's one of the things. I think my own acceptance of the divine nature of me being their mother and those being my children, and really that leading me to embrace my mother's intuition, which is something that I was hesitant for at first because there are so many experts, and surely they know so much more than me, and that's not to say that that's not important. I read so widely. I'm always reading expert ideas and views, but what I realized is that those things can help me as tools. They can mentor me, but they can't master me because the master has already appointed me as the perfect mom for these children, and nobody knows them, the little tiny details of them that nobody knows more than me, and so, when I leaned into that and I'm like, yeah, this says this online, this book said that, this thing says that, I can take what I can from those, but ultimately I feel the spirit telling me and leading me in this way with these children, and when I really leaned into that, I have a right to do that. I am their mother. That revolutionized things, and I think that's what's helped shape my children's character the most is my willingness to lean into how I'm led to lead them, and so, that's been a motherhood journey for me, and I hope that it's a legacy that I leave with my children.   Laura Dugger: (9:31 - 9:53) And do you have any specific stories that come to mind that were examples of that mother's intuition, something that really I think it is such a gift from the Lord and that the Holy Spirit speaks to us in some unique way as mothers to be in tune with our kids, so, is there a time that it really benefited them when you exercised your mother's intuition?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (9:53 - 12:42) Well, there was one time with my third, my son, my oldest son, his name is Beckett, and he was in the high chair eating while I was braiding my daughter's hair, and I heard him start making like these really weird noises, and I looked over and it was like he was choking and gagging, and I run over, and but he seemed fine, but then he would do it again, and he started sweating, and you know today I really would say, you should call 9-1-1, but I didn't, I threw all the kids in the car, and I rushed to the ER, and when we got there he wasn't choking anymore, he wasn't sweating, they did his vitals and everything, and they said, well mom, whatever happened passed, he's fine, and you guys can go home, and I was like, no, he's not fine, I'm looking at him, he's not my little boy, his vitals are checking out, but he's not looking at me the way he normally looks at me, he's not interacting with me, the little funny things that I can make him smile all the time, he's not responding to them, and so, like, I know you have your tests, but like my, I'm telling you something's wrong with my little boy, so, they have a doctor, he comes in to tell me everything's fine, and he's sending me home, and so, I was like, well I'm not leaving, I'll just spend the night in the ER then with all my kids, because I know something's wrong, and the doctor, who's this older man, he turns to me, he looks me in my eyes, and he says, you know, in all my years of medical training, there's something that they never told us, but something I've learned throughout my career, never doubt a mother's intuition, and he said, we'll take him and run more tests, and they took Beckett back to run more tests, and they came back and said, you were right, he has swallowed a coin, and it's like just teetering on the precipice, and so, at times it was blocking his airway, and at times it was shifted a little bit, and we have to go in immediately and get it, and that could have choked him, if you had just gone home and put him down to bed, and so, in that story, I took away two things, one, that I am his mother, and I don't care what the test says, or what the data says, or what the news, or a book, at the end of the day, I knew that something was wrong with my boy, the other thing is the graciousness of that doctor, to see my humanity and my personhood beyond just the insurance payment, or protocol, or whatever, it let me know that like there's something powerful about letting other people know that you see them, and that you are connected to them, as another part of God's creation, like he respected me on that level, so.   Laura Dugger: (12:43 - 13:35) That is incredible, I'm so grateful that that story has a happy ending, and that you were assertive to say that, I think sometimes as women, probably especially as Christian women, we can think, oh I want to be nice, or not push back on somebody, but I love that you were assertive, it was what was in your child's best interest, and like you highlighted, that doctor's humility is admirable, but Amber, you mentioned too that you're a writer, and you contribute a lot to things like the Wild and Free bundles, and I was always struck by the way that you would be out in nature, and there's so much to learn, so, if you had to boil it down, what wisdom would you have to share from what you've learned about the importance of getting our kids and ourselves outdoors into nature?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (13:36 - 16:49) Yeah, that's so funny, I love that you asked me that, because I like to tell people I was raised in the air conditioning, and so, there is no one who began motherhood further away from nature and being outdoors than me, like, and I can look back at those early days of like, I knew you could take your kids to the playground, and I did do that, but like what else would you do outside, you know, and people would be like, oh we went hiking on this trail, and I was like, where did you get on it, like where do you find a trailhead, like I mean this is back, like this is where I was coming from, and I was just like, and then what would we do, like we just walk, and do we talk about trees, I don't know any trees, I know Christmas trees are evergreens, you know, so, it was just like coming from this very like foundational place where I didn't know anything, but I believed, right, I believed, I somehow inherently believed when I read that being outdoors was important for children, so, I'm reading Charlotte Mason's work, and she's talking about nature study, I'm reading Last Child in the Woods by Louvre, and I'm hearing about this, he calls it a nature deficit disorder, and I'm reading all of these different kind of people who really respected childhood, and personhood, and really wanted the best for children, I'm reading a Christian perspective of the joy in connecting with God's creation, first and foremost, but also this idea of encouraging natural and authentic physical activity, running, climbing, balancing, exploring, developing coordination, and confidence, and the mental health components, you know, reducing stress, and improving mood, and not just for the kids, but my friend from A Thousand Hours Outside, she talks about how the first time she like took her kids out for the whole day, it was for her, because she was going crazy with these all these little kids, and the house, and the bags, and the diaper bag, and the snacks, and she didn't know what else to do, so, she just went outside, and how healing that was, and therapeutic that was for all of them, the idea of curiosity, of fueling curiosity, and creativity, I've never seen my kids come up with the most, I mean, they come up with imaginative things in our house, but outside, the, oh my goodness, the things they come up with, the things they create, and make, and the storytelling that comes out of that, and I think the family bonds, our experiences, it's another way of memory making, I mean, we make memories when we go see plays, and musicals, and travel as well, so, it's not the only way, but it's a strong way of that shared outdoor adventures, so, like a couple weeks ago, we were all whitewater rafting, it's funny, like a lot of funny things happen when you're out there doing crazy stuff, and so, we have a lot of laughter, and we have a lot of inside jokes that come from our time together, so, I think that all of those, it's not just one thing, it's one of those rare things where there are all the pros, and there really are no cons, and so, I intentionally embrace that for my family, even though it's everything that I didn't have growing up.   Laura Dugger: (16:50 - 17:41) Wow, that is so interesting, I love how books have really inspired you to make changes that have benefited your entire family, and I'm thinking back years ago when I was in grad school, studying marriage and family therapy, there was this book that we read, Letters to a Young Therapist, I believe the author is Mary Pipher, and she said something that I found to be very true in my life, she said, from childhood when we all look back, our memories typically boil down to three categories, one is family dinners around the table, the second is traveling with our family, and the third is anytime we were outdoors, and so, I'm wondering that legacy that you're giving your kids, they're going to have an abundance of memories in all three of those buckets.   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (17:42 - 18:29) Yeah, I love that, and I had never read that, it's making me want to go and read her work, but I can't agree more, I mean that's what I've seen anecdotally, at least in my family, and it's definitely been the case for us, I can totally see that, the other thing I love about outdoors too is it's free, you know, so, there have, we've had times of plenty and times of not quite enough financially throughout our journey, due to layoffs, and you know, recessions, and all these different things, but that has been one thing that the travel hasn't always been as consistent as we wanted, but the nature, the time outside has always been accessible, even during COVID, that was accessible to us, so, I love it for that too, but yeah, that's really cool.   Laura Dugger: (18:29 - 18:41) Absolutely, okay, so, you started with, you were getting some inspiration from different books and speakers, but then when did you actually implement this? Do you remember how old your kids were?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (18:42 - 20:11) Right away, so, my oldest was like four, five years old, and we started going outside, now again, we had always been going to the park, so, they had been spending a lot of time outside, but I will say like that's like a very, you know, man-made structures, and you know, I can't think of it, like very cultivated space, so, we weren't spending time in uncultivated space until around there, so, maybe a four-year-old, two-year-old, and infant, and I know they started growing up in that way, and I had kids in an ergo on the back, and I remember hiking with a kid in an ergo on the front, and then snapped another one on the back, and you know, these are memories I have of being outdoors thoroughly by the time the boys were coming along, and I remember the story where we were at a creek, and I looked up for a moment, and just sheer panic that my little boy was gone, he wasn't in my eyesight anymore, and the girls were playing there, and I'm like, you know, and I look, and look, and look, and there's nothing, and no one, and all I can think you sees in the water, and I wasn't paying attention, and my heart's racing, and I'm like, girls, where's your brother? And my daughter says, mommy, he's sleeping on your back. And I'm like, oh my gosh, I just think, like, I was so tired during those years, and I just remember, I would just think, let's just go outside, and some days that's just the most I could come up with, but yeah, I was freaking out, and the little boy was sleeping on my back.   Laura Dugger: (20:12 - 21:50) And now a brief message from our sponsor.   Sam Leman Chevrolet in Eureka has been owned and operated by the Burchie family for over 25 years. A lot has changed in the car business since Sam and Stephen's grandfather, Sam Leman, opened his first Chevrolet dealership over 55 years ago.   If you visit their dealership today though, you'll find that not everything has changed. They still operate their dealership like their grandfather did, with honesty and integrity. Sam and Stephen understand that you have many different choices in where you buy or service your vehicle. This is why they do everything they can to make the car buying process as easy and hassle-free as possible. They are thankful for the many lasting friendships that began with a simple welcome to Sam Leman's. Their customers keep coming back because they experience something different.   I've known Sam and Stephen and their wives my entire life, and I can vouch for their character and integrity, which makes it easy to highly recommend you check them out today. Your car buying process doesn't have to be something you dread, so, come see for yourself at Sam Leman Chevrolet in Eureka. Sam and Stephen would love to see you, and they appreciate your business. Learn more at their website, LehmanEureka.com, or visit them on Facebook by searching for Sam Leman Eureka. You can also call them at 309-467-2351. Thanks for your sponsorship.   I'm wondering too, so, when you began, what did you start with? What did you do outside?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (21:51 - 24:13) So, we started with walking, and I also was very verbal about my, what I felt were my inadequacies with friends, and that's why, you know, I can't overemphasize the, I haven't brought that up yet, but the idea of community. You don't need a hundred friends, just a few people who either are doing the same thing as you, have done it, or know you personally so well. But I had a friend who was like this outdoor enthusiast, and I always admired her for that, and she'd be like, oh, I went to the hydrangeas, they're coming out today, and they're gonna bloom for four days, and you know, like, and she would be like, oh, do you want some wild blueberries? And I'd be looking at her with side eye, like, girl, I only eat blueberries from Publix, because how do I know that you know what you're doing? You know, those could be poisonous berries you identified wrong. So, we had this kind of ongoing thing, I just asked her, I was like, hey, could we go outside with you guys sometimes? And she was like, of course. So, our first hike was with her and her kids, and she showed me how to go outside and do nothing. Like, we didn't do anything, we just walked. And the kids let us, you know, they would stop and ponder things and ask questions, which she knew the answers to, but wouldn't answer. So, she was like, well, what do you think? Or that's something cool we can investigate, or whatever. So, I realized, wow, here's this expert naturalist who's not even using her expertise. I don't have any expertise, so I could do the same thing. Well, what do you think about that? So, the kids let us, we stopped when they stopped, we kept going when they kept going. We had plenty of water and snacks, which she had told me, which was important. And that was my first thing. It was a hike. And after that, I only went back to that place by myself with my kids without her, because that was the only trail I knew. I knew where to park and where to go, and I felt confident. And then lo and behold, I run into Charlotte Mason's work, where she talks about returning to the same place throughout the year, and having your kids compare what's happening their season to season. And so, different rationale for why I was doing that. But then I was like, look, there's beauty, even in the simplicity of me not knowing what else to do. So, that's kind of how we got into it. And then I started having more experience and going out and being more adventurous further away from home with my kids.   Laura Dugger: (24:14 - 24:24) Okay, so, then what other ways has it evolved? You mentioned whitewater rafting. So, you've got teens now. What does your time outdoors look like in this phase?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (24:25 - 26:02) So, lots of camping. So, you know, Memorial Day weekend, you know, we were camping in yurts with friends. This past weekend, we camped, we had a big Juneteenth celebration, and then we went camping for Juneteenth weekend. And so, I would say that kayaking, paddle boards, we have paddle boards, we take out fishing, I hate fishing personally, don't like it at all. But two of my kids enjoy fishing. So, I'm there for that. I'll just bring a book or whatever, because it's quite boring to me, but they love it. So, we moved. I mean, how much of a commitment is that we moved to a different house, when we were able to have our whole property is forest floor. So, it's completely shaded and intertwined with trees and plants and a kind of wild scape. And across the road is a lake where the boys can fish and I can call their names for lunch and they can hear me now. I have to yell it loud. It's kind of country. Other people probably like what is going on? I'm like, you know, but they can hear me right there. And so, the creek and just really everything. A lot, a lot of hiking, I will say we live near a mountain and we're in Georgia. So, the North Georgia mountains are not far from us. We have Appalachia or Appalachia, as my friend said, I mispronounce it. And yeah, there's nothing that isn't my one of my first dates with Scott was whitewater rafting. So, we've always kind of embraced that.   Laura Dugger: (26:03 - 26:37) Oh, that's a special way to tie in a married couple memory with your kids and get to pass that along. And water and mountains, those things are, they never get old. But I've heard others even say like, you don't have to take stuff other than water and snacks, like you mentioned, to go outside. But I like the practical tips that sometimes people take art supplies, and they can nature journal or a book to read aloud. Do you have any other practical tips like that, that you would encourage if somebody wanted to get started with this lifestyle?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (26:38 - 28:47) Yeah, I would say, um, we, okay, the best thing I can say is to just try it like I think that oftentimes I know my I'm like this, you want to try to be an expert at something before you actually put it into practice. And the point is, like, we're looking at someone's work or something that they're doing after years that they've been in practice. And then we're expecting to do that from the very beginning. And until we get there, we don't want to do it. So, for example, nature study, nature journaling, I always admired nature journaling. But when you look at people's nature journals that they people who are willing to share, there's usually a reason they're willing to share theirs because it looks beautiful. And mine didn't also look beautiful. But I was still willing to give it a try. And I love that. And I love my kids, what they've worked on. And I cherish all of our early beginning sketches. And quite honestly, I'm still not great. But I think having tools like watercolor pens and water pens where we can do watercolor on the go. And we've done many pictures out by the side of the creek on picnic blankets, especially like my older children while younger people are like, What do I do with these little ones like water, you know, like they love that splashing, making sandcastles and things while I'm painting or doing things watercolors with the with the older ones. And were they museum worthy? No. But there was a lot of enjoyment involved in a skill-based learning. So, I think asking questions and inquiry, using pictures, sure and painting, but also keeping track of things the the date that our cherry blossoms bloom, and our white cherry blossom blooms before the pink one every year and keeping track of that or paying trying to map all of the vegetation in our yard like we are, you know, know which trees what they're called where they come from that takes time. And those are things we've done. It's not like we're only just sitting there barefoot grounding ourselves and forest bathing. You know, we're out there learning as well. And I think that, you know, both are beautiful ways to enter into that.   Laura Dugger: (28:48 - 29:34) I love it. There's so many benefits. And you even mention grounding that helps so much going barefoot with inflammation and different body systems that are reset even by getting out and getting early morning light and the serotonin that's produced that turns into melatonin at night. So, we're happier in the day and sleepier at night, resetting systems in our eyes and like healing our body in different ways to an even how much better outdoor air is for us than indoor air. The benefits just go on and on. So, would you have any to add that either your family has experienced personally, or you've learned about just benefits of getting outdoors?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (29:34 - 31:29) Yeah, I think that one, even, you know, all the things you said, yes, and also the mental clarity. And that's why I don't like being time outdoors, being tied to a negative consequence for academic related behavior. So, the house across the road from ours, you know, I could say ironically, or just be like, God chose to gift us. It's a homeschooling family. They moved in a couple years ago, and they have some kids are some of our kids are similar ages. And our boys are just outside all the time together hours and hours and hours every single day. And I see the difference on days where the weather doesn't permit it or where one family or the other, you know, isn't available. There's a difference in terms of clarity and the work that's happening at the lesson table as well. And this came up, you know, my nephew, you know, they're not homeschooled, and his parents took him on a trip, which caused him to miss a day of school. And he missed an assignment that day, he didn't turn it in. And so, the school then when he got back to school punished him by keeping him indoors for recess. And I was helping, you know, my family craft a note that talks about two things. One, they punished a child for a decision the parents made. And that is grossly unfair, they should be talking to the parents about not missing school, if that's the important thing. And the second thing is, you took away the very thing that allows these children to have what they need to sit quietly and take in, you know, that that's not, that's not how you that's not an appropriate consequence. So, anyway, I feel that the mental clarity beyond the things I would have named the same things you already said, it would be the only other thing that I would bring in and why time outside actually helps us to achieve deeper and broader and more expansive learning when we are inside.   Laura Dugger: (31:29 - 31:54) That's good. And I love how you keep mentioning the piece of community that that's the best way to do this. So, regardless of somebody homeschools, or they don't, how can all of us actually prioritize this? And what's a good, healthy goal for getting started, even as specific as how much time outdoors, how many outdoors or how many days a week should we be outdoors?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (31:55 - 33:01) Yeah, that's, it's so different for every family, I think that you should go just past the point of comfort, you know, for most of us. So, if the point of comfort for you is like 30 minutes a week, then you would start out like aim for an hour a week, you know, 20 minutes, three days, if you're already outside for, you know, 10 hours, a couple hours each day, you know, I would say, maybe shake it up with what you're doing and see what would it be like to go on a really long outdoor excursion on a Saturday, or to take a day off or something like that. So, I don't want to say an exact number, because we're all entering in at a different place. For me, if someone had told me to spend eight hours outside with my kids, when I was first starting, and I'm used to going to playground for 20 minutes, that would have been overwhelming. And I would have been like; there's no way I'm ever gonna do it. So, I think like, just taking it, like, where do I feel most comfortable? And how can I push myself just past that point would be a great place to start and kind of a nice place to always stay? Like, what's the next thing that we can do to lean further into this?   Laura Dugger: (33:02 - 33:15) That's really good, very wise counsel. And Amber, you've mentioned that your family loves to travel. So, will you share any adventures that you've had as a family with world schooling?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (33:16 - 36:20) So, our goal, and it's just a fun thing, you know, I don't know if we'll totally do it, but I think we will, is to have children. So, for us, world schooling is where we're not on vacation, but we're actually deeply immersed in a learning stance in another country, another part of the world. And we're trying to do that on every continent, except Antarctica, before my oldest graduates. So, we have two continents left, we are going to be going to Asia in the fall. So, we'll be taking that one off of our list and for that particular feat. And then her senior year, we'll do Australia and hop over to New Zealand. That's the plan, if it's God's will for us to do that, that's what we would like to do, and that will complete our journey. And then we'll keep traveling, but that was just kind of a fun thing to help lead us, because there are so many places in the world to go, like how do you know? And so, that kind of helped us know, well, let's do this continent, let's do that continent. So, we took our first trip, we spent three months in South America, most of it spent in Bolivia. And I can tell you exactly the kids' ages, because my youngest turned two in Bolivia. So, they were two, four, six, and then one turned eight there. And so, that was, you know, diapers, I had a baby in diapers, a little one in diapers and still nursing when we went on our first trip. And I've never regretted that. People have said, why would you take kids so young? You know, they're not going to remember. And I think a couple thoughts. One, you'd be surprised, they do remember. They may not remember this artifact in some museum, but that's not what we spend most of our time doing. But they remember the people. And we've kept in touch with a lot of the people that we've met in these different countries. And we've even had visitors in our home, staying in our basement apartment that we met abroad. So, they do remember. They remember how things feel and taste more than they remember exactly, like historical markers and things like that. Also, I kind of compare it to like breastfeeding and nursing, like my kids, except for one little boy who held on way too long, but they don't remember that. But I believed that it was something good for them that was forming. It was helping to form who they were, not so much who they were personality wise, but their bodies as they were growing. And so, sometimes we do things that are foundational to our children's development, even if they don't have a conscious and direct memory of that thing. And that's how I see world travel. So, we've been to Europe, and we were in Greece when COVID hit. We were in the middle of a big trip there. So, we had the whole struggle to get back to the United States. We've been to West Africa, most spent in Ghana, England, France. We're going to Ethiopia this year. So, yeah, that's kind of, that's our thing.   Laura Dugger: (36:20 - 37:04) Wow. And those memories are incredible. Even let's say your children forget some of this, or if they're too young to remember all of it, you remember this and you get to share those stories with them and pass that along. I can't even imagine all of the learning that takes place from being immersed in those other cultures. But you also mentioned welcoming people into your basement apartment. So, you sound hospitable as a family. What does that actually look like? And I'm kind of going to throw two questions at you. What does that actually look like? And then both for world schooling and hospitality, what are tips for ways we can replicate that as well?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (37:06 - 39:52) So, one thing that's important to me to always share about world schooling, I have a whole chapter about our world schooling adventures in my first book, but one important thing that I call out there is Eli Gerzen. He's the guy who came up with the word world schooling. And he says, you know, we don't even need a passport to do it. That world schooling is really learning from the world around you. It could be your local library. It could be the internet. It could be your neighbors. And so, while I use this more global term of world schooling, because that's just what we call it in our family, the truth of the matter is it's a way of seeing the world and seeing all the opportunity to make connections right where you're sitting. And people are like, oh, you guys have so much money. I can't do that. First of all, we don't have so much money. Like, for instance, we have one car, right? So, there are sacrifices that we make that other people may choose to spend their money in a different way. So, we definitely don't have a ton of money. But more importantly, I'm thinking, yeah, you're saying that you don't have money, but how much have you explored your county? Like, what do you know about the history of your county? And have you been to your local historical society? And have you really, you know, got in? Have you been to an old the oldest cemetery within driving distance of your home? Have you gotten a tour of it to hear the stories of who's there? Like, you can have that same inquiry and curiosity without ever leaving. So, I'll say that first. And in terms of the hospitality part, it's like an it's an intention, right? You have to like, decide that you're going to do that, because it's so much easier not to have people at first view, like, oh, my house is not clean, and blah, blah, blah. And people don't just stop by the way they used to stop by, like my grandparents' house, it was so fun staying there in the summer, because people just folks just came in and out all day, just they come calling is what they call it, they come calling. And even when we read Jane Austin, people leaving the call guard, you know, when they came to visit, and you weren't there, like, there was this idea that you didn't have to have an appointment. And now you do, you have to let someone know before you're coming. So, it's a choice to be vulnerable, if you want to be hospitable in that way that people will see your, you know, dirty bones of your house. And you know that you're not always presenting this, like really sanitized version of your family and your family life. And so, I think that's intentional decision to say it's more important to us to be with other people and let them in than it is for us to always sanitize everything before they get here. And I don't mean sanitizes and clean the house that too, but I mean sanitizes and everyone's behaving the way that I want them to behave in front of people and all of that as well.   Laura Dugger: (39:53 - 41:05) When was the first time you listened to an episode of The Savvy Sauce? How did you hear about our podcast? Did a friend share it with you? Will you be willing to be that friend now and text five other friends or post on your socials anything about The Savvy Sauce that you love? If you share your favorite episodes, that is how we continue to expand our reach and get the good news of Jesus Christ in more ears across the world. So, we need your help.   Another way to help us grow is to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. Each of these suggestions will cost you less than a minute, but it will be a great benefit to us. Thank you so much for being willing to be generous with your time and share. We appreciate you.   Well, and I think it is a biblical command for all of us and it does bless the person or the people that we are hosting, but there are also rewards for us in the process. So, if you even just could think of one reward of a way that this hospitality has blessed your family, what would you say?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (41:07 - 41:55) Well, I would say John chapter five, it says, you know, this verse we've all heard, "I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit apart from me, you can do nothing." So, you know, when we talk about hospitality, we spend a lot of time talking about what my family is doing for other people. But also, that means that my family is constantly in contact with other believers and other people who are helping us with our faith to helping us to remain connected to Jesus. And without that connection, we know that there's nothing that we can do, nothing of any spiritual significance. So, while I'm inviting those people into our lives, it also ensures that my family is not alone in what we're trying to do in our faith. So, like, that's one of a very easy benefit, I can say right off the top.   Laura Dugger: (41:56 - 42:18) Then that one is truly invaluable for our children to get to witness the way other people live out their faith, and it impacts each of us. But I'm also curious, how do you manage your time so that you can be a content creator, and you can homeschool and travel and cultivate these relationships?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (42:20 - 46:08) So, first, let me say that it's not always easy. And there are seasons where I feel like I'm doing a really good job with that. And there are seasons where I feel like I'm not doing a good job. I always prioritize my family first. And so, during the seasons where I feel like I'm not doing a good job, it's very public. People can see I did not post on Instagram for a month, or I'm not speaking as much. They're finding it harder to find opportunities to hear me speak, or I have a long lull before books are published. Those are times where I've turned inward towards my family, where I felt like I didn't have the bandwidth for everything. And so, that's something I have to deal with on a constant basis, because I know that my business or my ministry is not as rich and robust as it could be. I have ideas for days. I have ideas and the ability to bring them to fruition. But I'm not willing to sacrifice the time that it takes to do those things in this season. Because even though I don't have little kids, I definitely have more time than I did when I had little kids. It's not even just time; it's more mind clarity as well. But I don't have as much time as people with little kids would think, because I want to be fully present, even for my teens. When they want to talk to me, I want to be talkable too. I want to be available to them. And we're going to places. We're doing things. They're busy. I'm busy. And I'm trying to prepare them for young adulthood. And that's just as time-consuming as trying to prepare my young children for the next stage of their development. So, I guess it's so messy. Oh my gosh, it's messy. It's chaotic. It's a little bit crazy. But in the center of it all, I really appreciate the opportunities I do have to do the things that help refuel, help me refuel. So, I'm a writer. So, writing isn't just about creating a book. It's that I get to create a book, but really it's about the process and how cathartic it is for me to sit in silence and wonder about things and be able to write them out. And oh, lo and behold, there's a publisher who is interested in publishing those things. But the real work for me is in the process of writing. Then when I come home from a coffee shop or I emerge from my room, I come back more enthusiastic about what it is we're working on and what we're doing. The other thing that I would share is that I don't do all of that stuff by myself. So, things that people don't, just like I say, I have one car and we travel the world, people are like, oh, okay, this is not what I thought. My husband does all the laundry, every piece of laundry in this house that the teens do their own, but all the laundry that's done, he does and has done for over a decade. So, that's a thing I have to say, because you might be picturing that I'm doing all of those things. Or when I wrote one of my books, I was struggling and Scott was like, how can I help you? And he was like, what if we get help to come in with the kids like a nanny or something a few hours a week? I'm like, no, that's the last thing I want somebody to touch. So, he's like, well, what is it? So, we hired a chef, and she would prepare all of our dinners according to like what I, how I like my family to eat and lots of whole foods and good things. And she would drop them off at our house. It was very expensive, but I used part of the money from the advance from the publisher to pay for that so that I could write the book. So, I think those are things that a lot of times people don't talk about, but I have support in place. I'm not super woman any more than anyone else.   Laura Dugger: (46:08 - 46:49) Oh, I appreciate that real picture and those creative ideas because as mothers, we don't just make goals for ourselves. Like you said, we have these dreams and ideas that we could put into practice, but we consider our relationships as well and how it will impact everyone. So, I love hearing practically how that plays out for you and the trade-offs that you've chosen to make. And I know that you and I also share a passion for reading aloud. So, if we could get really practical for a moment, what are some of your most recommended read aloud for families from a variety of age groups?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (46:50 - 53:05) Well, I'm always ready for that question, but I have to say, it's almost asking me, which of my children are my favorite? It's so hard in so many ways, but for younger elementary, I picked three books that I think kind of help show how expansive I feel like I want my children's reading life to be. So, this book is called Indigo Dreaming, and it's a book about two girls, one's in North America and another one we can believe is off the coast of Africa. And they're both doing what they do in their own homes. And it's beautifully illustrated also, but they're both doing what they do in their own homes while wondering, is there another little girl in this world doing what I do, liking what I like? Well, indeed there is. And it's poetic and it has soft paintings. It's just stunning. And then another one is called The Magic Doll. It's a children's book inspired by African art. And in this book, the mother desperately wants to have a child, but she's dealing with infertility, and she turns to the use of an infertility doll. And what would I say about that? My family doesn't believe that, but it's a book that I read with my children because we were going to visit this culture. And I wanted to explain to them how we can respect something and learn about it even without adopting it. And that you can understand the yearning of a mother's heart to hold a child in her hand and the desperation that that could bring about. And I wanted them to know that we would see fertility dolls there and what they meant and things like that. And it's also beautifully illustrated, which is important to me. And then this one's just a fun book. It's called I Had a Favorite Dress, but as the dress starts getting too small, she cuts it and turns it into a skirt. And then it gets turned into this. And then the little, small piece gets turned into some socks. And then it's just a little scarf and snip, snip, sew, sew, pretty hair bow. And so, the same piece of fabric, this favorite dress she had, every time she can't use it in that way anymore, it gets moved and shifted. Into something else. And this book reminds me to just, you know, sometimes we share heavier topics with our children, even beautiful topics, but sometimes it's just joy. Like that's the whole purpose of the book is to smile and have fun. And I'll move more quickly for the older elementary books. I have this book called Schomburg. It's a nonfiction book about Arturo Schomburg and the man who built a library, which is now housed. His home library is now housed as part of the collection of the public library system in New York. And he collected books about all types of black and brown people. And it was considered one of the foremost library collections. So, as a book lover, I love that story. This one's called Heart and Soul. It's the story of America and African Americans with stunning illustrations by Kadir Nelson. So, I love visual art. I always say my family, we can't afford to buy the most exquisite art for our walls, but we have an exquisite art collection through our picture books that I've collected. And then the last one is for that group is John Henry by Julius Lester and Jerry Pinkney illustrations. So, those are two powerhouses of African American author and illustrator. Both have passed. And it is the tall tale of John Henry told in a way that you've never seen before. For older kids, like middle schoolers, I love this one Big Open Sky because it's about some black exodusters who are moving west. And it goes so well for families who love Little House on the Prairie. But, you know, Little House on the Prairie, in some ways, there's some instances that are a little disrespectful to Native Americans and black people. And this is like a redemptive story, not instead of but alongside of it to say that there were black people that were also moving westward and what was their journey. And it's written in verse, like, oh, my gosh, I can't even tell you enough about that. This book, The Angel Orphan, my friend Leah Bowden wrote this book, and it's the story of Charlotte Mason. So, in chapter book form. So, there's also a picture book that someone wrote, but this is a beautiful story about Charlotte Mason. And my family's all-time favorite on my kids read aloud is The Winged Feather Saga by Andrew Peterson. And that whole series, oh, my goodness, that cemented so much of our family lexicon, because it's filled with like made up words. And it I mean, we have jokes and talks and sayings for days coming out of that series. For our older teenagers, um, or even early elementary, early middle school and early teenage years, the Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry is just like a such a classic, Mildred D. Taylor that many of us read. But she also wrote a young adult version where Cassie is entering young adulthood. So, different age audiences, but same author. And a lot of people haven't heard of the other book All the Days Past, All the Days to Come. So, for high school, I love that. And then I threw a couple things in for mama. I'm an epic story of called Homegoing about two sisters and the different paths their lives take during a time I'm part of it is told in Africa and part of its told in the United States. And the last book I have is this memoir, A Black Mother's Garden. It's called Soil. And she uses her actual real garden at her home to kind of give us this idea of life. And it's, it's, you know, it's, it's hard to explain, but it's her it's part memoir, part gardening, like learning and talking about the plants, but also how all of that can turn into kind of like the soil of your life and the people being plants, and she really focuses on wildflowers. So, it's a stunningly, like poignant and beautiful memoir. So, those are my favorite, you know, and now if you ask me tomorrow, you're going to get a different stack.   Laura Dugger: (53:07 - 53:27) I love it. What a gift to get to see all of those you and I share some of those favorites, and you've introduced me to some new ones. So, I'm very grateful and hope everybody listening feels the same. But speaking of books, you've authored more than one. But will you tell us about your most recent release entitled Soul School?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (53:28 - 55:58) Yeah, so, Soul School is it's Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture. And I know it's so hard with those. But it is a book of books. So, people who have enjoyed Honey for a Child's Heart, or The Read-Aloud Family, those types of books, which I have adored, and I have all of them, and I've highlighted them or, or Give Your Child the World is another one, highlighted them and dog eared them and have used them to check out books for the library for my children for many, many years. And, and at the same time, I was always very, you know, on my heart that the books that I spend a lot of time reading with my children that I choose and I select are never really included in most of those books.   And there was the season, you know, I'm like, frustrated, you know, I'm mad. I'm like, why? Why are they putting these books in here? And then the more I thought about it, I was like, the most you can ask for a mother to do when she's sharing these books, when it's coming from that is what she read with her children. So, am I going to be mad at her that she didn't read what I think she should read? No, do I wish that it had been more expansive? Sure, I do. But how many of us wouldn't go back and do something differently if knowing what we know today or whatever. So, I wrote a companion like the I see not to replace those books. But this book is filled with African American and black diasporic children's literature starting from preschool all the way through high school.   The first part of the book, I talk about what I'm looking for specifically in books about black American culture, and why those things are important. So, the first few chapters, first five chapters are really teaching the teacher. And then the rest of the book, which makes up most of the book are really rich annotated book lists with descriptions why I chose the book discussion questions, project ideas, and something called second helpings. Like when you think of a big soul food dinner, you go through the line the first time and you fill your plate, but then you go back for second helpings of the things that taste the very best. So, if your child likes this book, then here are two second helpings that they also would probably enjoy. And you know, the book was years in the making, I read all 300 plus books in there from cover to cover. And that's kind of my contribution to raising our children.   Laura Dugger: (56:00 - 56:40) Wow, I mean, it is a stunning piece of work. And there's so much for your family, but also for all of us. So, I think of being one of your kids, what a treasure that their mom read 300 books and put this together. But for all of us, I love books on books. And like you said, we can use it to go to the library or then once we read those and find which other ones we love, we can add it to our home collection. So, thank you for that powerhouse of work. And Amber, there's still so much more that you could share with us. Where can we go after this conversation to connect with you or to learn more?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (56:42 - 56:56) Go to heritagemom.com. And there you'll find all of my books and years' worth of blog posts and book recommendations and other things. My Instagram is @heritagemomblog and the same at Facebook.   Laura Dugger: (56:56 - 57:12) Wonderful. Okay, we will add those links to the show notes for today's episode. And you may be familiar that we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so, as my final question for you today, Amber, what is your savvy sauce?   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (57:12 - 57:50) Oh, this is such a great question. I love this part of your podcast. I would say that my savvy sauce is learning to be a really great listener. Like if there's nothing else, then that's listening to my husband and the things of his heart and listening to my children and my neighbors and my friends.   But also, people I don't know, people in other places. And also, people I disagree with and being willing to be quiet and listen and take what I can from what they're sharing as well. So, that is, I think my savvy sauce is being an introspective listener.   Laura Dugger: (57:50 – 58:13) That is well said. You are such an inspiring and creative soul. And I have thoroughly enjoyed this chat. And I know I've been hearing you speak on other podcasts and reading your work for years. So, this was such a treat to get to connect with you today. And I just want to say thank you for being my guest.   Amber O'Neal Johnston: (58:14 - 58:16) Thank you so much for having me.   Laura Dugger: (58:16 - 1:01:59) One more thing before you go. Have you heard the term gospel before?   It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you.   But it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves.   This means there is absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own.   So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a Savior. But God loved us so much, he made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute.   This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him. That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus.   We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished if we choose to receive what He has done for us.   Romans 10:9 says, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, would you pray with me now?   Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place.   I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you. Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life?   We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me, so me for him.   You get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason.   We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you ready to get started?   First, tell someone. Say it out loud. Get a Bible.   The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes & Noble and let me choose my own Bible.   I selected the Quest NIV Bible, and I love it. You can start by reading the book of John. Also, get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ.   I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps, such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too, so feel free to leave a comment for us here if you did make a decision to follow Christ.   We also have show notes including where you can read scripture that describes this process. And finally, be encouraged.   Luke 15:10 says, “In the same way I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

A brief discussion of what Richard Louv called 'Nature Deficit Disorder' - the effects of a lack of interaction with the natural world - and some wonderful suggestions to solve it!"Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louvhttps://richardlouv.com/books/last-childLearn more about Personal Rewilding online at www.rhnaturereconnect.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-be-told-paranormal--3589860/support.

In which Miss Angie returns and along with the Mister join me in reviewing THE POD GENERATION (2023), from writer/director Sophie Barthes.  In a not-so-distant future where artificial intelligence and technology have become a central part of human life, a young couple, Rachel and Alvy (Emilia Clarke and Chiwetel Ejiofor), decide to start a family using an artificial womb, or "pod," to avoid the inconveniences of a natural pregnancy. As Rachel's career at a tech company flourishes, her botanist husband Alvy grows increasingly attached to the pod and its natural life within, while Rachel struggles to form a bond with the baby that's been made using technology. The film becomes a satirical exploration of our society's reliance on technology, questioning the true meaning of connection, nature, and what it means to be a parent in a world of manufactured convenience.  The film clocks in at 1 h and 50 m, is rated PG-13 and is streaming on Hulu but also to buy/rent on Prime Video.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review.ADDENDUM: this review was recorded before Disney's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel. While we like and recommend the film, we ask viewers to use alternate streamers to access the film as we are in solidarity with creatives at this time.The @TheDiaryOfACEO episode talked about in the review can be found here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UclrVWafRAI&t=13sThe book reference in the review [Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-deficit Disorder by Richard Louv] can be found here:  https://www.awesomebooks.com/book/9781848870833/last-child-in-the-woods-saving-our-children-from-nature   #ThePodGeneration #SophieBarthes #EmiliaClarke #Rachel #ChiwetelEjiofor #Alvy #VinetteRobinson #Alice #AslinFarrell #HRDirector #JeanMArcBarr #PegazusFounder #RosalieCraig #WombCenterDirector #AlixDunmore #Eliza #MeganMaczko #Elena #RitaBernardShaw #Rebecca #DystopianSciFi #Satire #Comedy #Romance #SciFi  @Hulu  @DisneyPlus  @PrimeVideo  #FridayFamilyFilmNightOpening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

Listen to Episode #340 from 2007Richard Louv is co-founder of the Children & Nature Network.

Are we diminishing our lives of the senses? Nan Evans talks with special guest Richard Louv, author of many books examining the crucial connections between the natural world and human physical, mental, social and even cultural health. Richard Louv first developed the concept of a nature-deficit disorder in his 2005 book, Last Child in the Woods. You will be inspired to get yourself and those you love outside to explore, play, watch and listen. (Airdate: February 19, 2025) Learn more:Richard LouvRegister for Jefferson Land Trust's 2025 Conservation Breakfast (free and virtual)Child and Nature NetworkMusic by Laura Martin Nature Now is created by a dedicated team of volunteers. If you enjoy this episode and want to support the work that goes into making Nature Now, we invite you to go to kptz.org/donate to make a contribution. Thank you for your support!

Let's get outside! This episode explores the positive impact that nature can have on our kids - from physical and emotional health, to sensory development, to understanding risk.  We'll “dig in” with one of the foremost experts in the field, Richard Louv, author of the renowned book “Last Child in the Woods,” who shares nature's benefits and provides practical tips for getting out into the living world no matter where you live. Plus, a special segment about Trees for the Future, an organization helping families through sustainable farming. We'll hear from the organization's representative Lindsay Cobb, and also from Jean d'Arc Sambou, a mother in Senegal whose forest garden changed her children's lives. You can also watch this podcast on YouTube and reach us at podcast@munchkin.com.  Richard Louv / IG / FB / Linkedin Louv is an Audubon Medal recipient, journalist and author of ten books, including “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder” which introduced the concept of nature-deficit disorder and on the need for environmental protection and preservation for greater access to nature and the health of the Earth. His books have been translated and published in 24 countries, and helped launch an international movement to connect children, families and communities to the natural world. He is co-founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Children & Nature Network, an organization continuing to build on that movement. Trees for the Future / FB / X / IG / Linkedin Trains farmers in agroforestry and sustainable land use - so that they can grow vibrant regional economies, thriving food systems, and a healthier planet. Trees is currently working with thousands of farming families across five countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Over their 30+ year history, they've worked around the globe and in 2014, focused their work in select African countries, where the climatic and economic challenges were most pressing and we could make the greatest impact. Since 2016, Munchkin has partnered with Trees of the Future to plant trees in inner cities, developing countries, and rainforests. This work helps counter carbon emissions and support environmentally devastated communities worldwide. StrollerCoaster: A Parenting Podcast is created by Munchkin Inc., the most loved baby lifestyle brand in the world.  You can find all your favorite Munchkin products – including the Vibration Swing including the new Vibration Swing featured in this episode (coming soon!) at Munchkin.com & WildLove https://www.munchkin.com/wildlove Use the code STROLLERCOASTER15 for 15% off regular-price items!  Follow Munchkin on Instagram / Facebook / Pinterest   International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) 

What's better than one child murderer? Two child murderers!  In this episode we talk about children killing children with the appalling crime of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb. 

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2358: Jay and Heather Harrington discuss the pervasive influence of the "princess industrial complex" on young girls and the importance of countering it by encouraging outdoor play and exploration. They emphasize how nature fosters confidence, creativity, and family connection, helping girls grow into strong, self-assured women. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/antidote-to-the-princess-industrial-complex Quotes to ponder: "Nature is a place to be creative, imaginative, adventurous, and to step outside of comfort zones. That's what being a kid is all about." "There's nothing wrong with pink and princesses, but if that's all we expose young girls to then it has an impact on them. And it's not a positive one." "Time spent outside, exploring nature, is some of the best time to bond and connect as a family." Episode references: Last Child in the Woods: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Child-Woods-Children-Nature-Deficit/dp/156512605X Cinderella Ate My Daughter: https://www.amazon.com/Cinderella-Ate-My-Daughter-Dispatches/dp/0061711527 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2358: Jay and Heather Harrington discuss the pervasive influence of the "princess industrial complex" on young girls and the importance of countering it by encouraging outdoor play and exploration. They emphasize how nature fosters confidence, creativity, and family connection, helping girls grow into strong, self-assured women. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/first-moments-blog/antidote-to-the-princess-industrial-complex Quotes to ponder: "Nature is a place to be creative, imaginative, adventurous, and to step outside of comfort zones. That's what being a kid is all about." "There's nothing wrong with pink and princesses, but if that's all we expose young girls to then it has an impact on them. And it's not a positive one." "Time spent outside, exploring nature, is some of the best time to bond and connect as a family." Episode references: Last Child in the Woods: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Child-Woods-Children-Nature-Deficit/dp/156512605X Cinderella Ate My Daughter: https://www.amazon.com/Cinderella-Ate-My-Daughter-Dispatches/dp/0061711527 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Aerosmith axeman recounts how he ripped the blazing lead on the Rocks hit, dishing some critical history along the way. Behind Steven Tyler's unhinged howls, Aerosmith's twin-guitar attack with Joe Perry and Brad Whitford cemented them as one of the greatest hard-rock bands of the '70s. “Last Child,” the street-strutting, hard-blues hit off their breakout 1976 record Rocks, is one of the greatest demonstrations of this dangerous duo's interplay. While Perry holds down the funky rhythmic chord stabs, Whitford burns through a volcanic, first-take solo. Did any pedals help snare that screaming tone? Nope. Just a '57 goldtop Les Paul and a 100-watt Marshall. That combo just “makes you play real good,” Whitford says with a grin on this week's episode. Whitford gives Shifty the background story on how Rocks came together between the band's Massachusetts rehearsal space and the Record Plant in New York. They dig deep on Aerosmith's influences and the guitar players that shaped Whitford's lead style, including the shredders that knew when to pause. “Whatever you play, you're still replicating the human voice for the most part, and you have to take a breath,” Whitford notes. Later on, Brad's son Graham—an established player in his own right—joins the episode to talk about raiding his dad's guitar and amp vault, and Brad muses on a big question: Will Aerosmith's upcoming tour be their last? Click below to subscribe to the podcast! Full Video Episodes: http://volume.com/shifty  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1690423642 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4B8BSR0l78qwUKJ5gOGIWb iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shred-with-shifty-116270551/ Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/shred-with-shifty/PC:1001071314 Follow Chris Shiflett: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisshiflettmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shifty71 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.shiflett Twitter: https://twitter.com/chrisshiflett71 Website: http://www.chrisshiflettmusic.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5tv5SsSRqR7uLtpKZgcRrg?si=26kWS1v2RYaE4sS7KnHpag Producer: Jason Shadrick Executive Producers: Brady Sadler and Jake Brennan for Double Elvis Engineering support by Matt Tahaney and Matt Beaudoin Video Editors: Dan Destefano and Addison Sauvan Special thanks to Chris Peterson, Greg Nacron, and the entire Volume.com crew.

“Child me, I am called to do : •Welfare State •Welfare •Soup Kitchen •Social insurance •Labor laws•Taxation•Air Force•Paramedics•Equal Opportunity•Courts•Social Equality•Social justice•ensure distribution of wealth•regulation of markets•public health•public schools•public services•the breaking of barriers for social mobility, the creation of safety nets, and economic justice•Arguing before The Supreme Court of United States•Being a member of Presidential White House administrations•being a public servant•social and human services assistant•social worker•teaching sign language and Braille•being a professor•https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domestic_worker •Education •Electricity •Emergency services •Environmental protection •Health care •Mail •Military trauma healing •Public buildings Public libraries •Public parks •Public policy •Public utilities •Public transportation •Social services •State schools •Telecommunications •Transportation infrastructure •Urban planning •Waste management •Water supply network •Education •Police •Labour Laws •Fire Services •Insurance laws •Food banks •Charitable Organisations •Public housing •Aged Care •Disability Services •Legal aid •Youth Services •Crisis Support Services •Emergency Relief •Public transportation.” -Antonio Myers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/antonio-myers4/support

Adult ADHD ADD Tips and Support Podcast - A Podcast for Neurodivergent Creatives. The Connection Between the Hunter Farmer Theory of ADHD and Neurodiversity. This podcast is an audio companion to the book "The Drummer and the Great Mountain - A Guidebook to Transforming Adult ADD / ADHD." In this episode, we'll explore the connection between the Hunter Farmer theory of ADHD and the concepts of neurodiversity and neurodivergent. As we unpack these two viewpoints of ADHD, they both seem to point in the same direction: people with ADHD have gifts to contribute to society. We'll also discuss how the hunter-farmer theory can lead us back to ancient and deeply nourishing practices that can allow us to feel more at home in the world and with ourselves. Links Mentioned in this Episode: (WORKSHOP) ADHD Time & Task Management (PDF) "The Hunter-Farmer Theory" Chapter (EPISODE) Kathleen Lockyer - The Science of Nature Connection (ARTICLE) ADHD Hunter-Gatherer Trait That May Have Helped Our Ancestors with Survival (ARTICLE) Woman, The Hunter (ARTICLE) The Myth of Man the Hunter: Women's contribution to the hunt across ethnographic contexts (BOOK) Thom Hartmann's Books on ADHD (BOOK) "Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv (BOOK) "What the Robin Knows" by Jon Young (BOOK) "Rewilding" by Micah Mortali Don't see a player? Click this link to download the MP3 file. If you have an Apple device (iPhone/iPad), you can download the podcast (and subscribe) for free at this link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adult-adhd-add-tips-support/id988935339 Visit the podcast web page to listen to all 106 episodes: http://www.drummerandthegreatmountain.com/adult-adhd-add-podcast >> Take the ADHD Hunter-type Quiz Outro voice over by Lauren Regan.  Episode photo credit: Jonathan Forage Intro and outro music by Bahman Sarram For more info, visit: http://www.DrummerAndTheGreatMountain.com  

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2517: Dr. Jenny Brockis shares insightful perspectives on the profound impact nature and physical activity have on our mental and physical well-being. Exploring the benefits of spending time outdoors and the power of happy feet in boosting mood and cognitive function, Brockis' work illuminates simple, yet effective strategies for enhancing life quality without the need for costly memberships or equipment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjennybrockis.com/2020/11/20/how-spending-time-with-mother-nature-does-us-good/ & https://drjennybrockis.com/2015/6/10/why-happy-feet-are-good-for-thinking/ Quotes to ponder: "Outside exercisers have been shown to have lower BMI's, are less prone to obesity and have more energy." "Learning to overcome that negative bias that can develop when we feel down, might be as simple as making a conscious choice to walk in a happier way." Episode references: Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Child-Woods-Children-Nature-Deficit/dp/156512605X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2517: Dr. Jenny Brockis shares insightful perspectives on the profound impact nature and physical activity have on our mental and physical well-being. Exploring the benefits of spending time outdoors and the power of happy feet in boosting mood and cognitive function, Brockis' work illuminates simple, yet effective strategies for enhancing life quality without the need for costly memberships or equipment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjennybrockis.com/2020/11/20/how-spending-time-with-mother-nature-does-us-good/ & https://drjennybrockis.com/2015/6/10/why-happy-feet-are-good-for-thinking/ Quotes to ponder: "Outside exercisers have been shown to have lower BMI's, are less prone to obesity and have more energy." "Learning to overcome that negative bias that can develop when we feel down, might be as simple as making a conscious choice to walk in a happier way." Episode references: Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Child-Woods-Children-Nature-Deficit/dp/156512605X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The wild is calling. Our spirits and bodies need the outdoors. We need nature. In this episode, we talk about forest bathing and the benefits of the nature connection. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv John Muir Laws Website Prevention Article: 15 Major Benefits of Walking, According to Experts FOREST BATHING: National Library of Medicine: Effects of forest environment (Shinrin-yoku/Forest bathing) on health promotion and disease prevention —the Establishment of “Forest Medicine”— American Psychological Association: Nurtured by Nature Poem "Deep in the Quiet Wood" THE WALKING CHALLENGE: April 15-May 14 30 Minutes a day for 30 days 1) Walk Outside 2) Walk for 30 Minutes 3) Post a selfie walking on social media  4) Add to your walking selfie social media posts: #30min30days Optional: 5) Tag me in the post for Facebook: @Janae Judd Daniels or Instagram: @janae.daniels  

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antiwarcom/Phone bank for Defend the Guard: https://defendtheguard.us/phonebankChapters00:00 - Intro00:21 - US Sending More Cluster Bombs to Ukraine05:52 - Russia Producing 3 Times More Shells Than US, Europe Combined08:19 - Jake Sullivan Says No Red Lines for Israel11:21 - Israel Strikes NE Lebanon, Killing 2 and Wounding 2013:13 - Israeli Forces Torture and Humiliate Detained Medical Staff14:20 - US Troops Depart for Mission to Build Gaza Port17:00 - Israel Tightens Grip on Aid Entering Gaza18:23 - Palestinian Mother Fears 'Imminent' Loss of Last Child to Starvation19:47 - US Missiles Pound Yemen, 11 Reported Killed23:12 - Haiti's PM Agrees To Resign Amid Unrest26:05 - Biden Requests $895 Billion for 2025 Military Spending28:33 - 'Defend the Guard' Bill to Enter Idaho State House30:35 - Viewpoints/Outro

The Adelaide Fringe Festival starts in a week. Performers, musicians and artists from all over the world will then present their productions for a month. The Adelaide Fringe Festival is known far beyond the borders of South Australia. Sylvia Brécko is among those who perform on stage. The entertainer and cabaret artist will perform on February 16 and 27 with her show 'Fur Baby, or: The Last Child Wears Fur. ' On her way to Adelaide, she stopped off at SBS to talk about her show: - In einer Woche beginnt das Adelaide Fringe Festival. Einen Monat lang werden dann Performer, Musiker und Künstler aus aller Welt ihre Produktionen vorführen. Das Adelaide Fringe Festival ist weit über die Grenzen von Süd Australien hinaus bekannt. Unter denen, die auf der Bühne auftreten, ist auch Sylvia Brécko. Die Entertainerin und Kabarettistin tritt am 16. und 27. Februar mit ihrer Show 'Fur Baby, or: The last child wears fur' auf. Auf dem Weg nach Adelaide hat sie bei SBS Station gemacht, um von ihrer Show zu erzählen:

Our kids are being raised disconnected from natural outdoor environments, for a variety of reasons like technology addictions, fears and dangers of being alone outside and many more. Michael welcomes Richard Louv, author of "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder." As children's connections to nature diminish and the social, psychological, and spiritual implications become apparent, Mr. Louv highlights that new research shows that nature can offer powerful therapy for such maladies as depression, obesity, and attention deficit disorder. Original air date June 2007. The book was originally published on 15 April 2005.

Most startups are founded by entrepreneurs hopeful that their idea will be the next big thing and pad their bank accounts in the process. Yet sometimes companies are started not by enterprising capitalists, but rather by a far less likely progenitor: nonprofit charities.  That's exactly what happened when the nonprofit National Wildlife Federation decided to spin out a for-profit corporation devoted to advancing the charity's mission to protect wildlife. The company, Garden for Wildlife, is already selling native plants to homeowners seeking to make their yards a bit more nonhuman-friendly. The basic premise is this: Too much wilderness has been destroyed by humanity for us to only rely on parks and preserves to give wildlife a chance to survive. While much of the animal biomass alive today is comprised of the animals who we farm for food, if we want to give free-living animals like songbirds a chance, we need to turn over a portion of our lawns and corporate landscapes into wildlife-friendlier corridors, or what author Douglas Tallamy calls “Homegrown National Park” in his book on this topic, Nature's Best Hope. Take the state where I lived most of my life, Maryland, as one example. Maryland alone has more lawn than two times the land allocated to its state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas—all combined. Sadly though, lawns are essentially biological wastelands capable of supporting less than 10 percent of life that a more natural landscape can support. So why do we do it? Why do we Homo sapiens like to create these nearly lifeless lawns wherever we go? In short, we do it because it makes us feel safe. Evolutionary psychologists suggest that humans prefer unobstructed views of our surroundings because that's what kept us safe on the African savannah where we evolved. As a result, as we've spread off the savannah and across the globe, we've transformed forested ecosystems into something akin to our ancestral home. And this isn't something that only started only once civilization was founded. Even tribal hunter-gatherers living in forests are often proficient at deforesting their surroundings.  So that's the bad news.The good news is that homeowners can actually do quite a lot to make their yards more welcoming to pollinators and other friendly creatures. The key is to ditch part or all of your invasive, water-thirsty lawn and replace it with a beautiful array of native plants and trees that will attract butterflies, hummingbirds, songbirds, and other amazing and harmless animals to your property. But where to start? That's where Garden for Wildlife comes in. Its entire business model is to make it easy for you to do just that without becoming an ecologist yourself. Just type in your zip code on their web site and check off which species you hope to attract, and they'll show you a menu of attractive plants native specifically to your region that you can order straight from their site, delivered to your front door. Profiled by Martha Stewart Living and Better Homes and Gardens, Garden for Wildlife has raised $5 million from investors (primarily its founder, the National Wildlife Federation) and is already bringing in an annual revenue of $1 million. The company is also crowdfunding now, meaning for an investment as low as $250, you can own shares in this startup. And we've got their CEO, Shubber Ali, on the show to talk all about it. While I've not personally used their services, my wife Toni and I four years ago removed our front lawn in Sacramento and replaced it with a tiny little meadow of native, drought-tolerant plants. Combined with a water fountain for avian visitors, since then our front yard has become a Mecca for hummingbirds, songbirds, and other little neighbors we love watching. And it's even become a frequent stop for our human neighbors, who we regularly catch photographing the flowering beauty and bringing their kids by to enjoy the sight. In other words, our own little Homegrown National Park has made life not only better for wildlife, but for a lot of humans, too.  This is an interesting story about one charity's decision to use the power of commerce to advance their cause. I'll let their CEO Shubber Ali tell you all about it. Discussed in this episode Check out Nature's Best Hope by Douglas Tallamy, which is entirely about this topic. Shubber recommends reading Last Child in the Woods. Shubber also recommends TED talks by Patti Maes and Simon Sinek Want to quickly identify birds by sound? Merlin's got you. My wife and I were influenced by Nancy Lawson's resource, The Humane Gardener. More about Shubber Ali Shubber Ali is CEO of Garden for Wildlife.  He is a father, husband, avid gardener, and loves nature - and it's those last two things that led to his current role.   He has spent over thirty years helping companies solve their most complicated and difficult problems through innovation, identifying growth opportunities, enabling technologies and platforms. He was the VP and Global Lead for the Elevate team at Elastic from April 2021 to June 2022, and prior to that he was one of Accenture's global leads for digital innovation from September 2017 to April 2021, where he worked with the National Wildlife Federation to create the Garden for Wildlife business.  He has also served as VP of Strategic Innovation at Salesforce. He has co-founded multiple consumer technology companies, some successes including Centriq (acquired) and Flaik (privately held), and some great learning experiences (aka “failures”).  He serves as an advisor to numerous startups.  In addition, Shubber has served for 9 years on the Advisory Board to the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown (where he has also been an adjunct professor of Innovation Management  in the Executive MBA program) and a guest lecturer for the Emory University Executive MBA program.  Since 2014, he also has served as a member of the global advisory STAR program for Airbus.

Welcome to the Fresh Juice podcast! Your go-to spot for in-depth reviews, insights, and discussions on indie games. We're passionate about uncovering hidden gems in the gaming world and giving indie developers the spotlight they deserve. In each episode, we dive deep into the gameplay, mechanics, and artistry of various indie games. We also feature exclusive interviews with developers, sharing their stories and the inspirations behind their games. Join the Discord community! https://discord.gg/RvqjcGephF THIS EPISODE: In this episode, we talk about Aggro Crab Games dealing with break ins, Day of the Devs going non-profit, our review of RIN: The Last Child, and we answer some great listener questions! INDIE NEWS: Games In Sweden on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/sale/gamesinsweden Aggro Crab Games Studio Broken Into For 3rd Time: https://www.gamesradar.com/indie-studio-behind-upcoming-underwater-soulslike-can-only-post-through-it-after-getting-broken-into-for-the-third-time/ Day of the Devs Goes Non-Profit! https://www.polygon.com/24054395/day-of-the-devs-2024-events-fundraising

This is part 1 of the 3 part series with Emilee and David. In the first session, we learned about Jack, their six-year-old son who is having trouble expressing his emotions. He often defaults to kicking and saying “I don't know.” In this episode, Leslie looks closer at their differing parenting styles: David wants to get to the bottom of it, and Emilee tends to distract and redirect. Is it important to be on the exact same page as your partner when it comes to parenting styles? And what happens when what you dislike about your partner's approach is exactly what's missing  from your own.Time Stamps10:38 Anticipatory Anxiety: kids and adults can get more upset by the anticipation of the event than the event itself. 15:57 It's not misperception, but rather simply having a different perception18:00 Instinct to “get to the bottom of it” might be causing more stress18:30 Can we normalize emotions rather than inflating them19:18 When you have different parenting styles: determine what's working and what's not working.  19:45 How to get the best of both worlds22:08 Emily distracts and redirects (indirect) David wants to get to the bottom of things (direct)26:05 Announce and name what you are doing, the change you're imposing29:35 Their homework:  Don't work so hard34:40 Normalize children who are arguing vs teaching children conflict resolution skills36:50 The lost ART of healthy neglect 41:40 Use the line “can you give yourself permission to make a mistake”43:20 "Plant the seed" and get out of thereRESOURCES:  Why ‘how was school?' isn't a good question to ask kids. Here's a CNBC article with some ideas of what to say insteadDistress Tolerance STOP techniqueNYTimes article on unsupervised PlayThe Anti-Helicopter Parents Plea: Let Kids Play!Risky Play Encourages ResilienceLeslie's book recommendation: The Last Child in the Woods by Richard LouvLeslie-ism: Do LessFor a full transcript of this episode and more information about the host visit https://lesliecohenrubury.com/podcasts/ . You can also follow Leslie's work on Facebook and Instagram. Join the conversation with your own questions and parenting experiences.Credits: Is My Child a Monster? is produced by Alletta Cooper, Mia Warren, AJ Moultrié, Camila Salazar, and Leslie Cohen-Rubury. Theme music is by L-Ray Music. Graphics and Website Design by Brien O'Reilly. Transcriptions by Eric Rubury. A special thanks to everyone who contributes their wisdom and support to make this possible.

Thanks for joining me on the Being Beautifully Honest channel! Leave a comment, like & subscribe for more and check out my other videos.Get your long-lasting roses rose at Rose Forever shop: $20 off discount code: Honest20https://bit.ly/3CxENWXGet your Byte Aligners For a Discount of $100 off and 75% off an impression kit! http://fbuy.me/v/ewill_1Build your credit and earn reward points with your debit card! Check it out and you'll get 50,000 points ($50) if you sign up: https://extra.app/r/ELZABG2EGV...Your beautiful skin is waiting at www.inezelizabethbeauty.com and enter the code PERFECT10 for 10% off your first order! Get THE BEST EYELASH STRIPS here! https://temptinglashes.comJoin me on my other platforms!WEBSITE: WWW.BEINGBEAUTIFULLYHONEST.COMPODCAST: bit.ly/thebbhpcastSUBSCRIBE TO MY OTHER CHANNEL AT bit.ly/ytcmobeautyTHE BEING BEAUTIFULLY HONEST PODCAST DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this video and on The Being Beautifully Honest Podcast Youtube Channel are just that, opinions and views. All topics are for entertainment purposes only! All commentary is Alleged.COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER UNDER SECTION 107 OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT 1976, ALLOWANCE IS MADE FOR "FAIR USE" FOR PURPOSES SUCH AS CRITICISM, COMMENT, NEWS REPORTING, TEACHING, SCHOLARSHIP, AND RESEARCH. FAIR USE IS A USE PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT STATUTE THAT MIGHT OTHERWISE BE INFRINGING.#lamh , #martellholt , #melodyshariBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/being-beautifully-honest-podcast--2633173/support.

Episode 48. Well, there's nothing quite like kicking off Season 2 and Sarah solo hosting, by chatting to Patrick Farnsworth, creator of Bikes or Death podcast - a conversational bikepacking, adventure cycling podcast that hit over a MILLION downloads in 2023!Patrick was super generous with his time, dialling in from Texas, USA, with wide ranging conversation covering everything from podcasting to parenting; mental health to miles on the bike, to entrepreneurial spirit and bikepacking events. We also chatted about:Life living and adventuring in Texas, where less than 3% of land is public landsCreating a whole new series of bikepacking style events, including the Texas Showdown series. Check this out - for the lowdown, slowdown, showdown and of course, the hoedown!Experiencing life as a single parent of two young daughters in TexasLiving with ADHD and social anxiety and the ways this manifests itself in lifeInclusivity in events and community - including encouraging non-male participation and BIPOC focussed eventsCreating really meaningful life shifts, moving from a place of alcoholism to a far healthier, "total life optimisation" and feeling great for itPatrick's personal riding goals including some significant rides to start the year, including but not limited to - Mid South 100 mile gravel race; Ozark Gravel Despair 200 miles and an Individual Time Trial on the 300 mile Arizona Trail race sectionPatrick also references the books: Wild, Cheryl Strayed and Last Child in the Woods – Richard LouvBrendan Leonard's Practice Maximum Enthusiasm essay - can be found on his site here and his Instagram @semi_radPatrick's Instagram: @bikesordeathIf you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate and review the podcast or share and tag us on Instagram @intotheweehourspodcast A HUGE thanks also to the podcast patrons - I am SO grateful for your support. If you'd like to join the Patreon family, you can check it out at www.patreon.com/intotheweehourspodcast Every contribution makes a huge difference, thank you! And not forgetting, the amazing new podcast music, courtesy of Allie Geddes (Episode 28) @themisadventuresofalice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the 47th Episode of the Album Review Crew of Shout It Out Loudcast, Tom, Zeus & Sonny review the 1976 classic album from Aerosmith, "Rocks." Rocks was Aerosmith's 4th studio album. The album continued Aerosmith's climb as perhaps America's preeminent hard rock band of the 1970's. The album was one of the first albums to ever get shipped platinum and has gone quadruple platinum. The album also reached number 3 on the US Billboard album charts. Aerosmith is led by one of the best singing and charismatic frontmen in rock history, Steven Tyler. Steven's vocals are one of a kind and style is unmatched. Aerosmith is led by dual guitar attack of Joe Perry and Brad Whitford. They trade off leads and rhythm guitar throughout the album. The rhythm section is Tom Hamilton on bass and Joey Kramer on drums. All the musicians as a whole are vastly underrated. The album was produced by the legendary Jack Douglas. Rocks features that classic Aerosmith style and see them continue the ascension to the top of the rock bands of the 1970's. Rocks features classics like, Back In The Saddle and Last Child while containing some of Aerosmith's favorite deep cuts, like Rats In The Cellar, Home Tonight & Nobody's Fault and Sick As A Dog. As usual the boys breakdown and dissect the tracks and rank the songs. They then rank the album and the album cover against the previous 45 albums reviewed on the Album Review Crew. This was the Patreon pick. So look out Sukie Jones, because the Album Review Crew is BACK! For all things Shout It Out Loudcast check out our amazing website by clicking below:   www.ShoutItOutLoudcast.com   Interested in more Shout It Out Loudcast content? Care to help us out? Come join us on Patreon by clicking below:   SIOL Patreon   Get all your Shout It Out Loudcast Merchandise by clicking below:   Shout It Out Loudcast Merchandise at AMAZON   Shop At Our Amazon Store by clicking below: Shout It Out Loudcast Amazon Store   Please Email us comments or suggestions by clicking below: ShoutItOutLoudcast@Gmail.com   Please subscribe to us and give us a 5 Star (Child) review on the following places below: iTunes Podchaser Stitcher iHeart Radio Spotify   Please follow us and like our social media pages clicking below: Twitter Facebook Page Facebook Group Page Shout It Out Loudcasters Instagram YouTube   Proud Member of the Pantheon Podcast click below to see the website: Pantheon Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 47th Episode of the Album Review Crew of Shout It Out Loudcast, Tom, Zeus & Sonny review the 1976 classic album from Aerosmith, "Rocks." Rocks was Aerosmith's 4th studio album. The album continued Aerosmith's climb as perhaps America's preeminent hard rock band of the 1970's. The album was one of the first albums to ever get shipped platinum and has gone quadruple platinum. The album also reached number 3 on the US Billboard album charts. Aerosmith is led by one of the best singing and charismatic frontmen in rock history, Steven Tyler. Steven's vocals are one of a kind and style is unmatched. Aerosmith is led by dual guitar attack of Joe Perry and Brad Whitford. They trade off leads and rhythm guitar throughout the album. The rhythm section is Tom Hamilton on bass and Joey Kramer on drums. All the musicians as a whole are vastly underrated. The album was produced by the legendary Jack Douglas. Rocks features that classic Aerosmith style and see them continue the ascension to the top of the rock bands of the 1970's. Rocks features classics like, Back In The Saddle and Last Child while containing some of Aerosmith's favorite deep cuts, like Rats In The Cellar, Home Tonight & Nobody's Fault and Sick As A Dog. As usual the boys breakdown and dissect the tracks and rank the songs. They then rank the album and the album cover against the previous 45 albums reviewed on the Album Review Crew. This was the Patreon pick. So look out Sukie Jones, because the Album Review Crew is BACK! For all things Shout It Out Loudcast check out our amazing website by clicking below:   www.ShoutItOutLoudcast.com   Interested in more Shout It Out Loudcast content? Care to help us out? Come join us on Patreon by clicking below:   SIOL Patreon   Get all your Shout It Out Loudcast Merchandise by clicking below:   Shout It Out Loudcast Merchandise at AMAZON   Shop At Our Amazon Store by clicking below: Shout It Out Loudcast Amazon Store   Please Email us comments or suggestions by clicking below: ShoutItOutLoudcast@Gmail.com   Please subscribe to us and give us a 5 Star (Child) review on the following places below: iTunes Podchaser Stitcher iHeart Radio Spotify   Please follow us and like our social media pages clicking below: Twitter Facebook Page Facebook Group Page Shout It Out Loudcasters Instagram YouTube   Proud Member of the Pantheon Podcast click below to see the website: Pantheon Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapter 1 Understand the idea behind Last Child in the Woods"Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder" is a book written by Richard Louv. In this book, Louv discusses the increasing disconnection between children and nature in modern society. He coined the term "nature-deficit disorder" to describe the negative consequences of this disconnection on children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.Louv highlights the importance of nature in a child's development and presents research, personal anecdotes, and case studies to support his argument. He explores various factors that contribute to the nature-deficit disorder, including the rise of technology, parental fears, and urbanization.Furthermore, the author offers solutions to combat this disconnect and advocates for creating opportunities for children to engage with nature, whether it be through outdoor activities, environmental education, or simply spending more time in natural environments."Last Child in the Woods" has had a significant impact on the discourse surrounding the importance of nature in children's lives, and it has influenced educators, parents, and policymakers to prioritize nature experiences for children.Chapter 2 Is Last Child in the Woods Worth the Hype?Yes, "Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv is widely regarded as a good book. It has received critical acclaim and has been influential in sparking conversations and movements regarding the importance of reconnecting children with nature. The book discusses the benefits of outdoor play and explores the effects of the growing disconnect between children and the natural world.Chapter 3 Overview of Last Child in the Woods "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder" is a non-fiction book written by Richard Louv. In this book, Louv explores the growing disconnect between children and nature, which he calls "nature-deficit disorder," and discusses the adverse effects it has on their well-being.Louv argues that today's children spend less time outdoors and more time in front of screens, resulting in a decrease in outdoor play and exploration. This shift away from nature, Louv believes, leads to a range of problems including obesity, attention disorders, depression, and diminished appreciation for the natural world.Drawing on research and personal anecdotes, Louv emphasizes the importance of nature for children's physical, mental, and emotional development. He explores the benefits of unstructured outdoor play, such as improved creativity, problem-solving skills, and overall well-being.Additionally, Louv discusses the barriers preventing children from spending time in nature, including safety concerns, lack of access to natural spaces, and parents' fear of letting their children roam freely. He argues for the need to reconnect children with nature and suggests various strategies, such as creating nature-rich school environments, incorporating nature-based education, and encouraging parents to prioritize outdoor experiences.Ultimately, "Last Child in the Woods" serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and society as a whole to prioritize and preserve the natural world for the sake of our children's health and future.Chapter 4 Last Child in the Woods Writer's Background The book "Last Child in the Woods" was written by Richard Louv, an American journalist and author. The book was first released in 2005.In addition to "Last Child in the Woods," Richard Louv has written several other books on similar...

Chapter 1 Understand the idea behind Last Child in the Woods"Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder" is a book written by Richard Louv. In this book, Louv discusses the increasing disconnection between children and nature in modern society. He coined the term "nature-deficit disorder" to describe the negative consequences of this disconnection on children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.Louv highlights the importance of nature in a child's development and presents research, personal anecdotes, and case studies to support his argument. He explores various factors that contribute to the nature-deficit disorder, including the rise of technology, parental fears, and urbanization.Furthermore, the author offers solutions to combat this disconnect and advocates for creating opportunities for children to engage with nature, whether it be through outdoor activities, environmental education, or simply spending more time in natural environments."Last Child in the Woods" has had a significant impact on the discourse surrounding the importance of nature in children's lives, and it has influenced educators, parents, and policymakers to prioritize nature experiences for children.Chapter 2 Is Last Child in the Woods Worth the Hype?Yes, "Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv is widely regarded as a good book. It has received critical acclaim and has been influential in sparking conversations and movements regarding the importance of reconnecting children with nature. The book discusses the benefits of outdoor play and explores the effects of the growing disconnect between children and the natural world.Chapter 3 Overview of Last Child in the Woods "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder" is a non-fiction book written by Richard Louv. In this book, Louv explores the growing disconnect between children and nature, which he calls "nature-deficit disorder," and discusses the adverse effects it has on their well-being.Louv argues that today's children spend less time outdoors and more time in front of screens, resulting in a decrease in outdoor play and exploration. This shift away from nature, Louv believes, leads to a range of problems including obesity, attention disorders, depression, and diminished appreciation for the natural world.Drawing on research and personal anecdotes, Louv emphasizes the importance of nature for children's physical, mental, and emotional development. He explores the benefits of unstructured outdoor play, such as improved creativity, problem-solving skills, and overall well-being.Additionally, Louv discusses the barriers preventing children from spending time in nature, including safety concerns, lack of access to natural spaces, and parents' fear of letting their children roam freely. He argues for the need to reconnect children with nature and suggests various strategies, such as creating nature-rich school environments, incorporating nature-based education, and encouraging parents to prioritize outdoor experiences.Ultimately, "Last Child in the Woods" serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and society as a whole to prioritize and preserve the natural world for the sake of our children's health and future.Chapter 4 Last Child in the Woods Writer's Background The book "Last Child in the Woods" was written by Richard Louv, an American journalist and author. The book was first released in 2005.In addition to "Last Child in the Woods," Richard Louv has written several other books on similar...

Segment 4, October 28th, 2023 A recent study by Peter Gray, a researcher in psychology & neuroscience at Boston College joined with David Bjorklund from Florida Atlantic University & David Lancy, an anthropologist & professor from Utah State argues that the crisis that has befallen U.S. youth can be traced to a lack of independence. Lancy stated that the three authors were "struck by the shrinkage in the amount of time that children spend on their own & the territory they may explore..." during an interview with Caitlin Gibson of the Washington Post. This along with the published theory of Richard Louv in his 2005 book "Last Child in the Woods" coined the term Nature Deficit Disorder.  This was from children now spending much more time indoors than in previous generations. The gang at the Carolina Outdoors isn't for promoting high risk activities in children but feel that the promotion of being outside, enjoying a hike, some time fly fishing, or even a permitted bike ride in the neighborhood helps build independence and a healthy, mental state & disposition. In other words, make your kids spend some portion of their week outdoors.

This week's #8 pick in the Top 25 Guitar Solos From The 80's comes from Jason. He chose "Love In An Elevator" from Aerosmith. Listen to get the scoop on the song's history and the hosts' review. To find the song on your favorite music service, use the link below:⁠⁠https://songwhip.com/aerosmith/going-down-love-in-an-elevator⁠⁠This week's first bonus bonus song is "Last Child":⁠⁠https://songwhip.com/aerosmith/last-child⁠⁠This week's second bonus bonus song is "Back In The Saddle":⁠⁠https://songwhip.com/aerosmith/backinthesaddle⁠⁠This week's first bonus bonus song is "Permanent Vacation":⁠⁠https://songwhip.com/aerosmith/permanentvacation⁠⁠This week's second bonus bonus song is "Voodoo Medicine Man":⁠⁠https://songwhip.com/aerosmith/hoodoo-voodoo-medicine-man⁠⁠Follow us on X (Twitter), @GreatestLists, and give us your feedback on this episode's song choice! You can also stream episodes from your browser at our website → https://www.greatestlistspodcast.com/⁠⁠SAVE 15% at HalloweenCostumes.com by clicking this link → ⁠⁠https://www.halloweencostumes.com/?CouponCode=trnhalloween2023⁠⁠Savings will be waiting in your cart automatically. Redeem before Oct 31, 2023.

We could talk about how much we love nature for hours! Growing up, our parents were very intentional about pointing out the beauties in the world. All of us have taken that appreciation for nature and woven it into the fabric of our own families. Join us as we discuss why nature is so important and share some ideas for getting your kids outside. How do you bring the benefits of nature into your family? Come share with us on Instagram! @eyresisters   Notes:   Oregon episode     Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv     How to Raise a Wild Child: The Art & Science of Falling in Love with Nature by Scott D. Sampson     The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative by Florence Williams     National Wildlife Federation - Health Benefits & Tips     Lost Connections: Why You're Really Depressed and How to Find Hope by Johann Hari     Huberman Lab - Light, sleep, and circadian rhythm     Stephen Moss quote      Amanda Morgan quote     David Sobel quote     Penny Whitehouse quote     Forcing a Good Memory blog post     Alfred Wainwright quote  

How does a fashion designer's daughter get obsessed with lizards and oil spills? Hear Sama Wareh's inspiration for becoming a naturalist and Director of the Art & Wilderness Institute. What is a naturalist? You'll find out in this episode!Having met our very own female Indiana Jones, we don't have enough good things to say about the work of the Art & Wilderness Institute and its programs. They're getting Muslim families outside to learn about the earth and its many gifts. You don't have to be a survivalist to be a good steward of the planet, but you do have to get to know the planet to steward.Tune in at 6pm EST on Apple podcasts, Stitcher, or check out the landing page on our website and LEAVE A REVIEW if you're on a podcast app. You can also send us a review at salam@mommyingwhilemuslim.com.Links:Art and Wilderness Institute Website: https://www.artandwildernessinstitute.com/Green Masjid Initiative: https://www.artandwildernessinstitute.com/green-masjid-initiative.html Art and Wilderness Institute on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artandwilderness_institute/Samah's book recommendations: Last Child in the Woods and The Secret Network of NatureWeb: www.mommyingwhilemuslim.comEmail: salam@mommyingwhilemuslim.comFB: Mommying While Muslim page and Mommyingwhilemuslim groupIG: @mommyingwhilemuslimpodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrrdKxpBdBO4ZLwB1kTmz1wSupport the showWeb: www.mommyingwhilemuslim.comEmail: salam@mommyingwhilemuslim.comFB: Mommying While Muslim page and Mommyingwhilemuslim groupIG: @mommyingwhilemuslimpodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrrdKxpBdBO4ZLwB1kTmz1w

 We often speak about how nature provides many benefits across all dimensions of well-being, which can have a long-term impact. Introducing children to different aspects of the natural world can help them in multiple aspects of their development and growth. Time in nature has been shown to boost creativity, enhance curiosity, increase empathy and cognitive functioning, and lower symptoms of anxiety. Nature-based educational systems have been shown to improve academic performance and critical thinking.Although this information is known, children have been spending less time outdoors.  Welcome to Episode Twenty-Three of The Nature of Wellness Podcast.  https://natureofwellness.buzzsprout.com On this episode, we sat down with the one and only Richard Louv. Richard is a renowned journalist and author of ten books, including the nature classic Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder; The Nature Principle; Vitamin N, and Our Wild Calling. Published in 24 countries, his books have helped launch an international movement to connect families and communities to nature.  Richard is a globally sought-after speaker who has Keynoted the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference, participated in the first White House Summit on Environmental Education, and Australia's International Healthy Parks Conference. He is the recipient of multiple awards for his ground-breaking work, including the Audubon Medal and the Cox Award. He is also a founder and chair emeritus of the nonprofit Children & Nature Network.  Join us as we talk to Richard about his personal journey within the natural world, what the term “nature deficit disorder” truly means, his impactful research and writings, and the many benefits of exposing children to nature.  Richard shares how access to evidence-based nature research has changed, what he has found to be some of the biggest barriers to getting kids outdoors, and how adults can implement nature exposure into the lives of children around them. This is an episode for children of all ages.  Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast. It will help us extend the reach of these powerful messages. https://natureofwellness.buzzsprout.com We appreciate you all. Be Well-NOW Richard Louv Website: https://richardlouv.com/ Richard Louv's Books: https://richardlouv.com/books/Children & Nature Network: https://www.childrenandnature.org* The Nature of Wellness Podcast is produced by the remarkable Shawn Bell.** The NOW theme song was written, performed, produced, and graciously provided by the incredibly talented Phil and Niall Monahan.  

Beshear and others celebrate sports betting as big win for Kentucky, but the bill passed points to just how corrupt Kentucky is. JCPS has successfully lowered the standard as they tout getting kids home before 8pm as a big success. Finally, I discuss how flawed Beshear's universal pre-K plan is. 

August 16th marks the first day of Linny's last year of high school. In this week's episode I share a few thoughts on reaching this milestone. You can follow me on Instagram at: ⁠⁠⁠@karen.e.osborne⁠⁠⁠ Click on this link to join Club Sandwich (the LITSZ Private Facebook Group): ⁠⁠⁠LITSZ_Club_Sandwich --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/karen-osborne9/message

Hosts Katie Lowes and Adam Shapiro explore the fundamental relationship between our sleep and nature in the finale of Season 2 of “Chasing Sleep.” Discover how losing our bond to nature has impaired our ability to get quality restorative sleep. Episode guests Richard Louv, author of the influential book “Last Child in the Woods” and Sleep psychologist Dr Jade Wu discuss how to prevent “Nature Deficit Disorder”, ways to improve sleep by harnessing the power of nature and the potential impacts of climate change and urbanization on sleep patterns. Could “green exercise,” forest bathing, or sunrise alarm clocks offer the key to better rest? “Chasing Sleep” is a production of Ruby Studios from iHeartMedia in partnership with Mattress Firm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On an unseasonably warm winter evening in Pennsylvania, 15-year-old Patty Desmond sneaked out through the basement of her house. She had a history of running away, and that, combined with an argument with her mother, gave police reason to suspect she'd come home in a week or two. The year was 1965. That night was the last time her family ever saw her.Conrad Eugene Miller was well-known to local law enforcement. An older married man with a child, Miller's association with Patty was questionable at best. Yet he was the last person known to have seen her alive-and the suspect police continued to circle back toward.After nothing but false sightings and rumors, the case was moved to the backburner-where it stayed. As decades crept by, reality sunk in: Patty Desmond was never coming back. Then, a tiny crack unleashed a flood of information, and a mystery that had never quite been forgotten was solved. LAST CHILD SEEN: The Search For Patty Desmond-Maureen BoyleRitual.com/MurderThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3269715/advertisement

Richard Louv is a non-fiction author and journalist best known for his seventh book, 'Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder', which investigates the relationship of children and the natural world. In this episode of Nature Revisited, Stefan asks Richard to revisit the central topics in this notable book within the context of today's cultural landscape of climate crisis, pandemic, loss of biodiversity, and human isolation. [Originally published Nov 30 2021, Ep 57] Last Child In The Woods book: http://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/ Listen to Nature Revisited on your favorite podcast apps or at noordenproductions.com Subscribe on Spotify: tinyurl.com/bdz4s9d7 Subscribe on Google Podcasts: tinyurl.com/4a5sr4ua Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: tinyurl.com/5n7yx28t Support Nature Revisited noordenproductions.com/support Nature Revisited is produced by Stefan Van Norden and Charles Geoghegan. We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions - contact us at noordenproductions.com/contact

If you've ever found a plant that you didn't recognize and wanted to know what it was, then this episode is for you. We talk with Dr. Alan Weakley about learning to observe plants, how to identify plants, why that's important, and some exciting new tools that are available to help us better recognize and appreciate the diversity of plants around us. Alan is the director of the University of North Carolina's Herbarium, which is located at the North Carolina Botanical Garden. He is also the author of the Flora of the Southeastern US and the newly released FloraQuest app.  The full transcript of this episode can be found on the episode's webpage: https://www.backyardecology.net/learning-to-see-and-identify-plants-with-alan-weakley/ Get a free copy of our e-book, An Introduction to Gardening with Native Plants: Hardiness Zones and Ecoregions, when you subscribe to our email. Subscribe at www.backyardecology.net/subscribe. Episode links:  FloraQuest: https://ncbg.unc.edu/research/unc-herbarium/flora-apps/ Flora of the Southeastern U.S. (pdf): https://ncbg.unc.edu/research/unc-herbarium/flora-request/ University of North Carolina Chapel Hill: https://www.unc.edu/ UNC Herbarium: https://ncbg.unc.edu/research/unc-herbarium/ North Carolina Botanical Garden: https://ncbg.unc.edu/ Last Child in the Woods: https://amzn.to/3qEBw5D Wildflowers of the Atlantic Southeast: https://amzn.to/3P6McEc Wildflowers of New England: https://amzn.to/3N5tZnI Wildflowers of Texas: https://amzn.to/3J9ix9D Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest: https://amzn.to/3N95S7U * Amazon links are affiliate links.  Backyard Ecology links: Website: https://backyardecology.net YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/backyardecology Blog: https://www.backyardecology.net/blog/ Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/backyardecology Make a one-time donation: https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=K7F3HJLJT9F8N Subscribe to Backyard Ecology emails: https://www.backyardecology.net/subscribe/ Episode image: Hepatica flowers Photo credit: Shenandoah National Park, public domain 

This month we are enjoying our first Author Series. When I asked Lauren MacLean, author of Me and My Sit Spot, about what inspires her, she said, "I LOVE to read!" Throughout this podcast episode (27) she highlighted several books.This answer inspired me to go to my bookshelf and pull out 10 books that I want to read and re-read this summer. 1. Green Teaching: Nature Pedagogies for Climate Change & Sustainability by Clare Warden2. Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom3. Children's Special Places by David Sobel4. Nurture Shock by PO Bronson & Ashley Merryman5. Vitamin N by Richard Louv6. Free to Learn by Peter Gray7. Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv8. Asphalt to Ecosystems by Sharon Danks9. The Walking Curriculum10.The Open Air Life by Linda McGurkI have been having a blast with the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and completely inspired by all the guests that have joined me. Thank you! Please let me know which authors you would like to hear from and I will reach out and have them on the Podcast on your behalf.

From Big Wheels to Power Wheels, tricycles to bicycles, getting your own set of wheels was a right of passage in childhood. Your new rims opened up a world of possibilities and autonomous freedom, rolling down the street to meet up with “the gang” in the woods, at a field, or at a friend's house - a pile of bikes already strewn across the front yard. Ride back with us to the 1980s to explore the origins of some of the most popular children's summer rides, and how these helped sculpt the summer culture of the most radically-rolling decade in history.   -- Can I Borrow Your Notes? --  Who Invented the Greatest Toy in History?! (AKA Big Wheel) History on the Development of Electric Ride-On Toys Learn the Power Wheels Story The Benefits of Outdoor Play: Why It Matters Our Children Spend Half as Much Time Playing Outside as We Did in the 80s 50 things to do before you're 11¾ Last Child in the Woods   -- Teacher's Pets --  Join the Class of 80's High: 80shighpodcast@gmail.com Follow on Instagram: @80shighpodcast Theme song by Greg Reed, with vocals by Chad Bumford Cover art by Alex Goddard at alexgoddarddesign.com

Well after 4 months in the vault, this one is finally coming out. Pinning Aerosmith's 3rd and 4th records against each other is no easy task but we are up for the challenge. With classics like: "Walk This Way", "Sweet Emotion", "Toys In The Attic", "Back In the Saddle", "Last Child" and "Rats in the Cellar" which album will come out on top and move on to round 2? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PASxW1pYzcU https://www.patreon.com/heelsandquads https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/heelsandquads --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/haqwrestlingpodcast00/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/haqwrestlingpodcast00/support

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:13 - 13:35) The Red Wave That Did Not Happen: What Caused the Dissipation of Election Day's Projected Republican Tsunami?Part II (13:35 - 20:05) An Abject Tragedy and Unmitigated Moral Failure: Americans Vote Overwhelmingly in Support of Abortion RightsA Predicted ‘Red Wave' Crashed Into Wall of Abortion Rights Support on Tuesday by Politico (Alice Miranda Ollstein and Megan Messerly)American Voters Just Sent a Crystal-Clear Message: They Believe in Abortion Rights by The Guardian (Jill Filipovic)Women Remembered to Vote on Abortion by Slate (Dahlia Lithwick)Abortion-Rights Supporters Prevail in Midterm Ballot Measures by Wall Street Journal (Laura Kusisto and Jennifer Calfas)Part III (20:05 - 24:58) History Is Often Much Closer Than It Might Seem — An Obituary of the (Thought to Be) Last Child of an Enslaved Person Reminds Us of ThatDaniel Smith, 90, Dies; Thought to Be the Last Child of an Enslaved Person by New York Times (Clay Risen)Sign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

Brainy: 17:34 Behind the Redwood Curtain. 29:52   What We're Learning from our Knitting and Crochet: Catherine finished up her Melanie's Mandala Baby Blanket https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/melanies-mandala-baby-blanket.  by Melanie Grobler at M and M Crochet Designs and she has started knitting up ballband washcloths for washcloth exchange https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ballband-dishcloth https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ballband-dishcloth Margaret Knit up another small amigurumi project that taught her a lot: The Splendid Snail by Tatyana Grigoryan. https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/splendid-snail   Brainy Thing: Although experts debate its existence, many people believe Nature Deficit Disorder is a read condition that needs to be addressed. Richard Louv came up with the term in his book "Last Child in the Woods" . https://richardlouv.com/blog/what-is-nature-deficit-disorder/. Other names and terms Catherine describes in this report are green exercise, eco psychologists, Wilderness therapy professionals Frederick Law  Olmstread (American Landscape Architecture), John Muir and Louise Chala, Colorado University professor   Behind the Redwood Curtain: Those beautiful iconic Cliffs of California are eroding away. Margaret reports on a recent study about them. https://scripps.ucsd.edu/news/new-high-resolution-study-california-coastal-cliff-erosion-released California Coastal Cliff Erosion Viewer:  https://siocpg.ucsd.edu/data-products/ca-cliff-viewer/ https://www.sfchronicle.com/climate/article/California-s-cliffs-are-falling-into-the-sea-17362397.php     Today, in Episode 140 of Teaching Your Brain to Knit, Catherine presents information about Nature Deficit Disorder and the importance of being outside in nature; She also talks about her knitting AND crochet: she finished her crochet mandala Baby Blanket and started knitting washcloths for the washcloth exchange. Margaret shares her experience knitting a snail and then reports on the latest information on the eroding cliffs of California  

This week I spoke with Chelsey Bahe from Minneapolis Minnesota. Not only does she have tons of nannying experience, but she also runs her own Outside Play Club! Book recommendations: A Way with Wild Things, Oona, Sophie Mouse, and Zoey and Sassafras Class/education recommendations: Pop Up Adventure Play, Balanced and Barefoot, and Last Child in the Woods Listen to The Nanny Endorsements each week wherever you get your podcasts! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thenannyendorsements/support

Richard Louv is a non-fiction author and journalist, best known for his book Last Child in the Woods. In this episode of Nature Revisited, Richard relates startling accounts from his latest work, Our Wild Calling, which explores our deep bonds with other animals and calls for a transformation in how we treat and inhabit our environment. Among other topics discussed is the distant future of humanity within nature, and what is required to inspire true positive change. [Originally published January 5 2021, Ep 31] https://richardlouv.com/books/our-wild-calling/ Listen to Nature Revisited on your favorite podcast apps or at noordenproductions.com/nature-revisited-podcast Support Nature Revisited: noordenproductions.com/support Nature Revisited is produced by Stefan van Norden and Charles Geoghegan. We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions - contact us at noordenproductions.com/contact

Our society is struggling from what Richard Louv has coined, a Nature-Deficit Disorder. Using his book, Last Child in the Woods, we explore how our society is moving more indoors and less outdoors and how this is causing a decline in our physical, mental and emotional health.Thankfully, there are so many ways we can create a family culture that prioritizes nature.In this episode, we explore how a disconnect with nature causes physical, emotional and mental decline, what might be stopping us from being in nature more and how we can reconnect with nature.Thank you to our sponsors:Dry Farm WinesIf you enjoy a glass of wine but are also trying to be intentional with what you put into your body, look no further. Dry Farm Wines provides only the best, organic and biodynamic wine from all over the world. Their selections are beautiful and healthy. As a Mama's Roots listener, enjoy an extra bottle of wine for $0.01 with your first order by using this link: Dry Farm WinesFind Nicolette here:Nicolette's WebsiteNicolette's InstagramHave an idea for an episode? Feel free to shoot me an email at nicolette@mamasrootsareshowing.com

Episode 95 - How to Find the Creative Gold within Your Wellness Journey with Alicia Leytem Alicia Leytem joins us for a conversation on wellness and creativity! Alicia is a certified Wellness Coach, Wellbeing Consultant and a Mindfulness Expert combining her passions for healthy living, mindfulness, and authentic leadership to guide professionals in creating lasting changes for their physical, mental, and spiritual growth. She founded Alicia Leytem Wellness in 2015 and she recently published her book The S.I.X Gold Keys to Well-being: A Guide to Unlocking a Healthy and Happy Life. To support personal and organizational growth, Alisha designs and facilitates unique wellness offerings all over the nation. In this episode, Alicia shares her key tools for unlocking self-discovery and mindfulness, and offers a productive space for personal meditation, reflection, and gratitude. Topics Covered on this episode of The Create and Grow Podcast: 03:48 -  Beginning of Alicia's Journey 05:51 – Tips about Inner Journey09:25 – Meditation, Breathe Work and Practice of Gratitude 11:32 – Space Meditation: Meditate on a Future Version of Yourself18:30 – The Six Keys23:51 – The Key of Movement 28:47 – The Key of Nature 31:05 – Last Child of the Woods34:31 – The Key of Mindfulness 39:00 – The Key of Intention42:40 – Connect with Alicia Leytem Subscribe:  Spotify | YouTube Connect with Alicia Leytem  Visit www.alishaleytem.com Check out Alisha's Book: www.alishaleytem.com/book  LinkedIn www.LinkedIn/in/alishaleytem   Instagram www.Instagram.com/alishaleytem    Connect with Genein Letford: Visit CAFFE Strategies Visit GeneinLetford.com Follow Genein on Facebook   #CAFFEStrategies #Intercultural #Diversity #InterculturalCreativity #Creativity #InterculturalCreativity #innovation #OurHealthOurArtsandOurFreedomRide #DEI #DiversityAndInclusion

Richard Louv, co-founder of the San Diego-based Children & Nature Network, author Richard Louv adds Vitamin N to his growing list of books encouraging us to get outside. Aimed especially at families eager to share nature with their kids, Louv's practical guidebook offers "500 Ways to Enrich the Health & Happiness of Your Family & Community." All are appropriate for Earth Day, but they're also fitting throughout the year. Through his 2008 landmark book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder, Louv brought international attention to a backyard crisis. We are unnaturally detached from our natural surroundings. A decade later, this clarion call to parents, policymakers, and pediatricians continues to resonate. Sadly, society still suffers from obesity, attention disorders, and depression. Fortunately, however, Louv's message has galvanized an international back-to-nature campaign to “Leave No Child Inside.” City folks inclined to develop an adversarial relationship with nature find Louv's ideas comforting. For instance, dirt can strengthen immune systems; sticks are perhaps the world's oldest toys; sunshine and water are for our use and pleasure. Louv invites these urbanites to step beyond their world of concrete and hand sanitizer, and, instead, gather courage as they build resilience and new outdoor skills.  Following Louv's charge to return to nature, adults report regaining their own sense of wonder. Those stepping outside are feeling a greater sense of work-life balance and freedom from frenzied family schedules. (For more ideas aimed at adults, see The Nature Principle: Reconnecting with Life in a Virtual Age by Richard Louv.)   Just how much "Vitamin N" do we need? Louv believes “Some is good, and more is better.” BUY Vitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature-Rich Life Please consider donating to Nonfiction4Life by visiting our Patreon page. RECOMMENDATIONS Check out other titles by Richard Louv: Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder (2008)  The Nature Principle: Human Restoration and the End of Nature-Deficit Disorder (2011) Read our blog about Frederick Law Olmsted, creator of New York's Central Park. Listen to Angela Hanscom (Episode 104) talk about her book, Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children, then buy the book. Connect with us! Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube  Website Special thanks… Music Credit Sound Editing Credit

Mark interviews E.S. Curry, an insatiable renaissance man who loves writing outside the data stream on a Royal typewriter, listening to classical music on vinyl, and imagining bedtime stories with his son Åsmund. Prior to the main content, Mark shares a personal update and a word about this episode's sponsor. You can learn more about how you can get your work distributed to retailers and library systems around the world at starkreflections.ca/Findaway. During their chat, Mark and Scott talk about: How Scott started writing for himself four years ago after years of doing ghostwriting and working in advertising and marketing The importance of discovering his own voice as a writer and how it took writing over one million words before he found his voice The experience of a being at a "Fred Forward" conference at the Fred Rogers Center and how Fred Rogers talked about the importance of being in a bubble with a child and really engaging and attending to them and that space Getting away to the wilderness with his son Åsmund, unplugging from the digital realm, and really connecting with one another and within nature The desire of parents to want to "write these things down" when experiencing that magical time in their child's life where the fantastical and imagination are such powerful elements Doing their first father/son book signing at Lake Placid Writing on a 1953 Royal Quiet Deluxe typewriter Discovering his own author brand and his persona in the same way that he had to discover his own writer voice The scholarly 1858 expedition known as the Philosopher's Camp Richard Louv's writing, his books The Nature Principal, Last Child in the Woods, and his ideas of a Nature Deficit Disorder Being visited by Ralph Waldo Emerson's ghost in Scott's next book: Camping with Emerson's Ghost Scott being a huge believer in the 3-format author A little bit about Scott's role at Findaway Voices The experience of doing the audio for his first book, including auditioning himself as a potential narrator The importance of having a simultaneous release with multiple formats to maximize your launch marketing effort impact Some of the projects that Scott has been working on outlining Being a big believer in the Rule of 3's Creating book ciphers for his son as well as for marketing And more... After the interview Mark reflects on Scott's work at writing millions of words before finding his voice, communing with nature, and the tactile experience of writing on a typewriter.   Links of Interest: E.S. Curry's Website Findaway Voices Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Accounting for Authors The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon   E.S. Curry is an insatiable renaissance man that loves writing outside the data stream on a Royal typewriter while listening to classical music on vinyl, plays piano and guitar, races his sailing yacht Escapade, fences, and imagines bedtime stories with his son Åsmund. For over 20 years, he's worked with iconic brands around the world designing brand strategies and marketing campaigns, including IMG, Arnold Palmer, Olympics, Fashion Week, and numerous non-profit initiatives. He is currently the Marketing Strategist for Findaway Voices, a platform that empowers authors and publishers to create and distribute audiobooks to reach listeners globally. A former ghostwriter, he published his first book under his own pen name, The Flying Sabuki: A Father-Son Nature Adventure, in 2021. One of the many five-star reviews describes the book as a “Must Read for Parents” and “Curry's approach to parenting struck a chord with me, as his intentional foundation of love and genuine connection with this child is what I aspire to as a parent. On several occasions, tears streamed down my face…” The follow-up book entitled The Philosophers Ghost: Camping with Ralph Waldo Emerson will be published later this year. E.S. Curry calls Cleveland, Ohio, and Great Lake Erie his home port. To learn more and sign up for his email list visit escurry.com.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0