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

There are a lot of 'ingredients' in most forest educator programs that make up the bulk of the experiences.  Crafts. Skills. Games.  Challenges.  Free Play.  Exploration. (and more). Viewed as a recipe, they would be the big items in whatever dish you're making.  They'd take up a lot of space in the pot or pan, and they would get the most attention. But there are also the smaller ingredients in the mix, that are often completely overlooked and seldom thought about, that are critical to making the dish come together, and work, like salt, or seasonings, or baking powder.  When these are missing, it is a big deal. When it comes to crafting and inviting students to have an 'Experience' in our programs, the little things matter in the same way.  Our stories are important, and how we frame the lessons, or time spent together, and our intent, as well. This episode explores some of these small but mighty 'secret ingredients' that pack a lot of power and energy, especially around the ideas of inspiration, mastery, pushing beyond our perceived limits and the value of focus and attention to detail.  These have the capacity to provide some incredibly long lasting impact for students and educators alike. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

My guest in this episode found her way to 'nature based education' under duress, like so many program leaders.    Danielle Zola shares her visionary journey that was propelled by the needs of the children, and the needs of parents, and the desire to not 'settle' for the status quo.    It's the most painful thing to see our very young children suffering in a school system that struggles or fails to be flexible and adapt to student needs, so stepping away from that model was a first step towards something new and innovative.      She and her partner Kerin Una began a community based forest school that also included strong elements of parental healing and inner growth.    Creating that kind of safe environment was challenging and rewarding, requiring deep vulnerability on the part of everyone involved.   Danielle led by example, and found a way forward, overcoming challenges and adapting to the needs of the village.   Her story is profound and inspiring, offering a unique model that is full of hope and promise for a new way of imagining our lives. Website:     https://www.rootsandwingsvillage.org/ Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/daniellezolalmsw/?hl=en Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/rootsandwingsvillage/?hl=en Linktree:      https://bio.site/rootsandwingsvillage Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/rootsandwingsvillage Podcast:       https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rooted-resilient Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

There was a time in my wilderness skills training and practice where I took a big step in my 'nature awareness' study and 'got nocturnal'. Yeah, it seems a bit radical when I describe it now, but at the time, it wasn't that big of an extra step. I was already making buckskin, practicing tracking and fire making and lots of other skills in every bit of my free time, but I felt like I was still disconnected to the wildlife around me in a more meaningful way. Because the majority of the animals in my ecosystem were mostly active at night, it seemed logical to follow their lead. This episode is all about my experience, from committing to a full month of being on 'the night shift' to the rules and parameters I worked out to insure that I would be fully in 'their world' and take a break from the 'modern human perspective'. The lessons and feelings and connections I experienced on those moonlit (and moonless!) nights changed how I feel about the darkness forever. Please Enjoy Episode #40. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

As nature educators, we often encounter students and participants who struggle with feelings of unworthiness or anxiety when it comes to connecting with the natural world. In this episode, I share the story of a student I worked with many years ago who had a deep desire to immerse herself in nature, but was held back by past traumas and a fear of rejection from the earth itself. Through our conversations, I learned the importance of approaching these situations with empathy and an open mind, rather than making assumptions. I share how I guided this student to find her own path to feeling safe and accepted in nature, and the profound transformation she experienced when she finally allowed herself to fully surrender to the experience. I know many of you out there are also navigating your own complex relationships with the natural world. I hope this episode provides some insight and inspiration for how we can create more healing spaces for ourselves and our communities to reconnect with the earth. As always, I'm here if you ever need a listening ear or want to share your own experiences. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In this episode I share how I began adding 'rites of passage' elements into my summer camps, class trips and skills programs & activities, with an emphasis on the practical nuts and bolts aspects to these topics.     I also share how I got started in leading 'Coming of Age' programs for boys entering young adulthood, and how it evolved to working with parents as well. There is a noticeable shift in my own students and staff that occurs when I hold a space for this kind of awareness, and I have used guided imagery, crafting a 'skills code' and other means to help build the inner foundations of these individuals.   It is a powerful understanding that changes lives in meaningful ways, and I'm excited to share these tools with everyone. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Today I'm joined by the author of The Open Air Life and There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather, Linda McGurk, whose writing focuses on raising children in the Nordic style of living more in tune with nature. Connect with Linda: https://lindamcgurk.com/ https://rainorshinemamma.com/ https://www.instagram.com/rainorshinemamma/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

How do you create nature programs in a country where virtually everything is cultivated through commercial agriculture and highly impacted landscapes?  My conversation with Jael Nouhet of the Netherlands explores his efforts to plant seeds, trees and plants to create the future forests for children and educators in a few decades! It takes a tremendous effort to create the kind of consensus building, commitment and investment towards a long term vision of a future with nature-connected children and adults, and Jael shares his journey, and what he's learned along the way.  We discuss the many cultural differences, customs and social structure that impacts efforts to get children outside in Greece, Turkey, the Czech Republic, and Russia, and why it's beneficial to understand how these 'barriers' are being circumvented in areas around the globe.     Website:    https://natuurpedagoog.nl/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/jnouhet LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/jael-nouhet-25383825/?originalSubdomain=nl Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/jaelnouhet/ Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/natuurpedagoog/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I've always been able to quickly tell the difference between someone with years of actual hands on experience in bushcraft, nature skills or crafts, from those with just a little.  It's seen mostly in the way that skills are presented, or how the preparation is put in, or in the choice of words in a social media post or photo description.  When four or five tiny things begin to add up, I start paying attention, and then it becomes obvious.  When I first began seeing Nick Hulley's LinkedIn posts, I saw this phenomenon in spades. In this episode, Nick shares the width and breadth of a life lived hand in hand with nature, through teaching, living, practicing and working day in and day out.  He's used natural elements in conservation and forestry, and considers himself a 'Social Forester', which is a term I had never heard before.  He also shares a wealth of experience in witnessing the origins of the current Forest School model as it evolved and grew in the United Kingdom, and how the current iteration of today's thousands of educators and schools are making an impact, one child at a time. LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-hulley-91854b1/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The magic and power of 'forest school' programming and pedagogy has spread far and wide, from the Scandinavian origins to Europe, Turkey, North America, Australia, South Korea and now into Southeast Asia.  Sharon Cortez founded The Forest School of the Philippines, and has been on a mission to bring the benefits and positive results of this model of pre-school, kindergarten & younger grades to communities throughout her country.    Sharon shares her journey, starting with her epiphany and subsequent change in professional career, then to her training and now to her work with children and youth in the region south of Manilla.    It's not easy to pioneer something new into any culture, but her persistence has been aided by her own extensive experience in marketing and communications, which has been vital in helping her message to be received by both schools and parents.  She shares about her daily experiences with the children, and how forest school is different in the tropical region from its distant alpine origins. Connect with Forest School Philippines: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forestschoolph/ Website: https://forestschoolphilippines.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbRSnf7iSFB0i8RGYOmjH_w Forest School Webinar: Forest School 101 https://mailchi.mp/3dde8d19886e/fsphreplay Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forestschoolph/ Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/shop/forestschoolph Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Well, it's election time, and we are surrounded by examples of fear based social media posts, television ads, internet ads and all kinds of different things vying for our attention and trying to get us to take some kind of action.   The logic goes something like this:   "Well, if they are spending millions of dollars on these ads, they must work, right?" Well, yes and no.   It all depends on who you want to attract with your messaging, and that is where it can get complicated! This episode is a deep dive into why Fear-based messaging can sometimes be very effective, when it can be damaging to your reputation, and how to make stressful topics easier to understand and actually build trust and positive connections.   Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

We're talking about The Hero's Journey this episode, and how it relates to the work we do as Forest Educators.    The Monomyth has a multitude of stages that are easily recognizable when we know what to look for, whether we are working with elementary age students, middle schoolers, high schoolers or adults.     The Hero or Heroine undergo many ordeals, trials and tasks in their journey into the unknown.   They encounter beings who might be allies, or become enemies, and discernment comes into play, adding complexity on top of everything else they are learning. My programs took on depth and transformational elements that had an amazing impact on campers and students, and I believe that learning these elements can help anyone working with youth or adults to expand awareness, understanding and enhance program design. Joseph Campbell-The Power of Myth :     https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Power-of-Myth-Programs-1-6-Audiobook/B002V59WRE?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp The Hero with A Thousand Faces:     https://www.animatornotebook.com/learn/the-hero-with-a-thousand-faces Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

One of the goals of this podcast is to shine some light on the accomplishments and hard work of amazing naturalists and educators like Amy Butler.  Her tireless work in the northern heart of Vermont has led to nature based programs for youth, wonderful staff training, public school partnerships and a thriving North Branch Nature Center. In our conversation, Amy shares details about her book 'Educating Children Outdoors', which is a guide for teachers and educators to achieve outstanding results for students of all ages.  She shares stories from her early adventures in earth skills, tracking and nature studies, and her work as a teacher in various roles and educational settings. We dive into a number of issues that seem to come up for all nature educators when they begin to partner with public schools, and Amy shares her successes from her extensive experience.  It is always inspiring and insightful to talk to someone who has been walking the talk for decades, and to hear about her new book. Amy's Book Educating Children Outdoors:   https://www.cornellpress.cornell.edu/book/9781501771903/educating-children-outdoors/#bookTabs=1 Website:   https://amybutlervermont.com/ Instagram:   @amycoyotevt               @topshackliftie X (twitter):   @amycoyote Affiliated Organization:  northbranchnaturecenter.org Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It's understandable that most nature program directors or entrepreneurs are better trackers, or basketmakers, or wild foods gatherers than they are at marketing and promoting their programs.   Those things are what we are passionate about, so it makes sense. At the same time, if we want students and income from our educational programs, we need to find ways to to communicate the value of what we do. If we don't, our programs can be in trouble. This episode dives into the five biggest elements of marketing and communications that I've seen trackers and naturalists struggle with, speaking from both my own personal experience and my own coaching clients over the years.   I will also share simple ways that we can improve our efforts that will make the difference between half full programs and ones that have wait lists. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Today's guest interview is with my wife and partner Trista Haggerty, who draws upon the deep connection with the land and nature to facilitate healing and inner growth. Her experiences in deep earth initiations, forged in sacred sites all over the world with own mentor Helena Shik provide insights that are often unique in the 'mystics' community. We discuss some of her work with Hawk Circle Staff and Apprentices over the years, as well as her 'nature based' approach with her own children. Our discussion covers Initiations, Sacred Journeys and the importance of caves for transformation, to name a few topics. It is a true gift and honor for me to share the wonderful insights and magic of the person I live with here at Hawk Circle! Her new book 'When the Dark Mother Calls' is available on Amazon, and you can read more of her story of her incredible journey there! Book Link on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/When-Dark-Mother-Calls-Initiatory-ebook/dp/B0CKTYFK4K/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1697520625&sr=8-1 Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I've noticed a common theme in many of the Facebook forest school groups I'm a part of. People are constantly asking where they can get the right training to start their own nature programs, and they're seeking suggestions for activities and crafts to do with children. As an educator, I emphasize the importance of providing children with real challenges and activities that build practical skills, rather than relying on contrived or disconnected experiences. I encourage you to focus on process-oriented, lifestyle-based activities that allow children to connect more deeply to the natural world. It's also crucial for us, as educators, to have our own practical experiences to draw from. While it can be challenging, I believe that by following our passions and interests, we can create meaningful and impactful nature programs for the children we serve. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

If there is a defining moment for nature education in the past five years, it always seems to be found during the Covid Pandemic.  It was in this time that we see major shifts in the way we work, teach, learn and grow, as it accentuated the many changes that children, youth, families and adults were already showing prior to the coronavirus, and virtually all nature programs felt the effects.    In this episode, Jason Knight of Alderleaf shares how his organization responded to these forces, and how his program and community has pulled together to find ways to thrive in an ever-evolving world.  He launched some online programs, and even wrote a great book called 'The Essential Skills of Wilderness Survival', while also running lots of local programs and raising a family. Sometimes, we are all forced to 'embrace' change, whether we like it or not, but Jason's gifts have allowed him to take it to the next level.  It's a great conversation that can benefit anyone running nature programs, and gives us a little 'behind the scenes' feeling at times as we explore many relevant topics along the way. Website:   WildernessCollege.com Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/alderleafwildernesscollege Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alderleafwildernesscollege/ LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/alderleaf-wilderness-college/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

David Alexander is a naturalist, bushcrafter, Adirondack Guide, wild foods forager and avid hunter and fisherman who also serves the youth of New Jersey in environmental education.  He's developed innovative nature programs for lots of different ages, homeschoolers, and local groups through his work with the New Jersey Parks & Recreation Department, winning the Employee of the Year in 2023 recently for his commitment to excellence. It takes effort, energy and creativity to build bridges in schools, organizations and county and state parks, but David is navigating the currents like a river rafting guide shooting class IV rapids, and always coming out refreshed and smiling!  His work is a testament to how one dedicated, passionate person can create change and inspiration in Public Institutions who are willing to adapt and grow in today's changing world.   He shares his approach and passion for making a difference not just for children but also adults in his private guiding experiences, where he offers adventures that involve backpacking, canoeing, fishing, foraging and wilderness skills.  His Instagram account had me longing for the solitude and joy of deep nature immersion and it's not to be missed! Connect with David: Nature Into Action Website:   https://natureintoaction.com/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/natureintoaction/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/Natureintoaction LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/Davidethanalexander/?fbclid=IwAR2dw_R23YpwNFKT2peLWCSBXMlLBAWO78e46nR242XoIu5KzcAp_HnaB80 Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The path of a writer and poet is a solo journey.  We navigate winding, circling loops of our own stories, sitting in the caves of our memories , reliving the places that changed our understanding, sometimes forever.    These offerings to the world expose our inner world, demanding that vulnerability as payment for finding our authentic voice that echoes across the canyon walls. My guest is Heidi Barr, and she shares her own path from a childhood in South Dakota to far flung places and back to the prairies.   Our conversation is enhanced from poems from her new book, Just Wild Enough, (available in April) and her insights as a keen observer of nature and self.     In nature, we find solace, but more than that, we find a place that can open our hearts and show us pathways of intimacy and connection that might be the 'magic' that we are all seeking in this modern world.    Heidi Barr is our guide, and she already knows the way. Bio: Heidi Barr is a writer and wellness coach whose work is founded on a commitment to cultivating ways of being that are life-giving and sustainable for people, communities, and the planet. She is the author of several books of creative nonfiction, including Collisions of Earth and Sky and Woodland Manitou, and co author of 12 Tiny things. She’s also authored two poetry collections, one cookbook, and is editor of “The Mindful Kitchen,” a wellness column in The Wayfarer Magazine. One of the inaugural Poets of Place for the lower St. Croix Valley, her poetry has been featured in numerous publications, including the St. Paul Almanac and South Dakota in Poems. She lives with her family in Lindstrom, where they tend a large vegetable garden, explore nature, and do their best to live simply. Her next book of poetry, Just Wild Enough is due out in April. Connect with Heidi: https://heidibarr.com/ https://heidibarr.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/heidicbarr/ https://www.facebook.com/HeidiBarrwriter/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-barr-3884107/ Book Link:  Collisions of Earth & Sky   https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506482545/Collisions-of-Earth-and-Sky Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It seems like the best place to start is to introduce what we mean when we talk about Forest Educators. In the inaugural episode of The Forest Educator Podcast, I explore the different layers and angles involved in forest education and the types of conversations we are going to have on this podcast. If you have suggestions of other types of people (or specific people!) we should be having conversations with on this podcast, make sure to send me a message and let me know. I love to hear from you! Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

When you think of a 'nature school', most of us don't think of Newark, New Jersey.   It's incredibly urban, and set in a world that is almost completely dominated by human engineering.    To make a nature program work, it helps to start small, and to throw away the idea of 'what a nature school should look like'. This concrete jungle is where Chantel Zimmerman began her education journey.    She eventually left the public sector to create a successful nature program called The Sensory Garden, where she demonstrates the power of nature based learning every day. Her passion and excitement around the benefits and outcomes that nature can provide fuels her advocacy and she shares programs for urban schools to involve student assessments and inquiry based models that can be transitional stages for public education. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, and I loved hearing about her ideas and strategies that can benefit youth and educators everywhere. Website:     https://www.sensorygardenandplay.com/ Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/sensory_garden_and_play/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/chantel.hernandez.395 Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

If you haven't been in a situation where something happens that is unexpected, then congratulations!  You probably have an amazing overworked program director who is really NAILING IT as far as logistics, details, staff training, student screening and daily monitoring of everything in your program!  Enjoy it while it lasts.  Live the dream! If, on the other hand, you know what it's like when things go sideways, or headfirst into the ditch, metaphorically speaking, then this episode is for you!    There are a lot of moving parts, details, logistics, planning, equipment, staffing and so much more in pretty much every nature program, and because we work in 'human development', it's very difficult to get it all right, all of the time. In this episode, we will break down the four main categories of 'issues' that can happen, and how to keep them from derailing your program, camp or adventure even when things don't go as planned. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In every program, just like in life, there are things that are clearly defined, established and understood, and then there are the 'grey areas'.  These are places where expectations can grow, issues can be unmet and problems can hang out, in the twilight gloom of our nature school or forest kindergarten. Left unchecked, these grey areas can create enough friction and frustration that it can sometimes tear apart our programs or our communities, and have tremendous negative impact for all involved.    Unwritten Contracts work in a similar fashion, usually created unconsciously by wonderful, well intentioned staff, students, parents or organization leaders, and can be upset when their internally made 'agreement' is unfulfilled by our program, workshop, retreat or camp.   In this episode, we will turn on our headlamps, get a few solar string lights and maybe a few construction work lights to help us see what might be going on, how we might unconsciously be contributing to the problems and figure out some ways to fix them! Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

There are over 250 PRESCHOOLERS in the US who are either suspended or expelled from their programs EVERY DAY.    No, that's not a typo.  Two hundred and fifty preschoolers, every day, in America. When our children are struggling, they literally can't attend programs that don't provide an environment that supports them.  When they are kicked out, it creates tremendous stress for parents and those students, to find new programs that WILL address those needs. This means that forest schools are going to have a high percentage of students who have difficulty with their emotional regulation and social skills.  And this is where my guest Meagan Duncan comes in! Our discussion ranges from our experiences with snow, the COVID pandemic and its effect on our culture and education, as well as working with early childhood education in 2024.  Meagan shares about her experiences working with getting Forest School educators all on the same page in their support and approach to this work, and how it can get positive outcomes for parents as well. This is by far the deepest dive I've ever done on this topic, and I loved every minute of it!  Meagan's work with her 'Connected Kids Thrive' positive behavior coaching was impressive and encouraging.  If you work with the so-called 'difficult' kids, this episode is for you! Website:    https://connectedkidsthrive.com/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/meagan.d.duncan Facebook Group:   https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentchildcommunication Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/meagan_connected.kids.thrive/  Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The winter is a time of contrasts, where survival is hardest for most living things, and at the same time, sometimes also including times when we can feel closest to those in our families and our lives.    This episode explores the lessons found in the wild, through Winter Skills classes I've led for over 25 years, with students ranging in age from 14-50.  We discuss some of the most challenging winter conditions for survival, high energy food, fire skills and the wonders of insulators found in the wild.    Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It came out of nowhere, right as hundreds of Forest School Leaders were preparing for the Autumn semester:   An opinion piece in The Guardian ominously titled "I'm All For the Concept of Forest School, Just Not the Kind I Pulled My Kids Out Of." by Emma Brockes. It's just six paragraphs of cynical observations around schools, camps, forest schools and misunderstanding, but it packs a lot of criticism for nature education without a lot of detail, nuance or substance.    It's the kind of piece that can and did get under the skin of a LOT of dedicated, passionate educators who did not take kindly to the views expressed.    Asa Hardy-Brownlie and I discuss this and nature education media narratives in detail and talk about the challenges we face as a profession to effectively respond to these kinds of pieces that can really skew the understanding of parents, teachers and schools.    What sorts of ways do we want to communicate what we do and why it's important and valuable to children and families?      We talk about websites, social media and ideas and ways of shaping our messaging so it sticks and is effective, which are some of the gold nuggets we can glean from this experience. Guardian Article:       https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/aug/16/forest-school-kids-children-wholesomeness?fbclid=IwY2xjawFGHjpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHcPiqmTXxigdia-3hUHjNGD_dfrvCltmCkKI5uvVO3IU0-v5O--Fq5vabQ_aem_b_HsH0bqger7b-YmGOCfRg Building a Story Brand Book by Donald Miller:        https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400201837/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?smid=AX2JROIIWRZYD&psc=1 The Forest School Podcast:       https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-forest-school-podcast/id1389962726 The Forest School Assistance & Support Facebook Page:     https://www.facebook.com/groups/forestschoolas/posts/1921709608278764/?comment_id=1921860808263644&reply_comment_id=1922381681544890¬if_id=1725393778098826¬if_t=group_comment_mention Portugal Forest School Reel:    https://www.facebook.com/reel/548887540806850 Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I'm excited to welcome my first guest to the podcast, Forest Educator Jude Vinton who runs Be Free Forest School in the UK. Jude shared her story about how she transitioned into (and out of) traditional teaching before opening her Forest School program, the huge obstacle in this industry when it comes to funding, and the mental and emotional health and well-being crisis facing kids (and adults) today and why forest education is so important. She also shared some of her favorite resources, which I've linked below! Connect with Jude: https://befreeforestschool.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/befreeforestschool https://www.instagram.com/befreeforestschool/ Book Recommendations in this Episode: The Organic Artist for Kids by Nick Neddo - https://amzn.to/3qOzM9D Losing Eden: Our Fundamental Need for the Natural World and Its Ability to Heal Body and Soul by Lucy Jones - https://amzn.to/3qBa7Bi Wild Days: Outdoor Play for Young Adventurers by Richard Irvine - https://amzn.to/3X5Vx11 Activities, Games and Challenges for Learning Outside the Classroom by Tracey Maciver - https://amzn.to/3p3MpgC Activities, Games and Challenges for Learning Outside the Classroom 2 by Tracey Maciver - https://amzn.to/43HHK2Y Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

There are lots of times when we as educators face the task of creating a positive nature experience with less than ideal situations.  Running forest school sessions in urban schools near a football pitch, or an abandoned lot is not always what we were thinking we were getting into when we envisioned being nature educators or went through our training! In this episode, David Fisher and I explore some of these challenges and how they might be mitigated both on an individual or community level and at the professional or association level.  We talk about how there are missing elements in our profession right now that could greatly help Forest School leaders to achieve excellent learner outcomes and to remain consistent across the spectrum of unique educational environments. David Fisher is a teacher, Forest School Leader and Forest School Trainer who provides courses and programs both in the UK and Internationally. Instagram:   @rooted.learning Website:    https://www.rootedlearning.co.uk/ Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The paths we take in our journey as educators are incredibly diverse and unique to each of us.  We all have different origins, with mentors, teachers, opportunities and our communities all influencing how we do what we do. In this episode, we explore some of the ways we end up in our 'forest educator lanes', and how to change lanes, as well as why it can be incredibly beneficial to ourselves, our families, our students and our professional growth to make a shift.    Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

When we remove all of the 'non-teaching stuff' that surrounds our profession, we educators are left with an opportunity- to connect with the 'still maturing' mind of our young students.   We can have all the trappings and bells and whistles and laptops or digital projectors or classroom props and decorations, but if we don't have the ability to make a real, personal, one on one connection to these human beings, we won't really have a positive, lasting impact.  Wendolyn Bird shares from her decades of experience working with very young children, parents and also other educators, and we dive into what it takes to deeply engage and 'lead' an early childhood program in a way that is soothing, stimulating and energizing. Wendolyn discusses ways to connect with children that meet them in ways that help them grow, which is crucial to achieving the goals we have as educators or parents.   Listening to her stories makes me wish she had been MY preschool teacher, too, because she is both wise AND fun.  The bonds we make with emotionally safe adults is incredibly important and soothing to us as children.  Learning these skills is a profound game changer for us as educators and for our students, which is sorely needed in today's rapidly changing world. Connect with Wendolyn: Website:   https://wendolynbird.com/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/wendolyn.bird Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/wendolyn__bird/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

We're talking about the business of forest education again today in this week's Forest Educator Spotlight. How do we determine the value and appropriately price our programs? This may not be as fun as sharing stories about sitting under the trees and building shelters, but it has an important impact on our industry as a whole. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode could be titled 'The Problem with Getting Comfortable with the Status Quo', because there's a very real disadvantage that happens when we slip into a routine.    Organizations do thrive on consistency, and operating within a system that has uniform inputs and outputs, and those who are in charge will resist attempts to change them, for a lot of reasons.     One is cost, because training everyone to do things differently is expensive in both time and money.    Another is working out who is trusted enough to make the decision to change, and it generally doesn't happen quickly or very often. This is where nature based programs have an advantage:   We're nimble.   We are adaptable.   We can try a lot of different things with many different types of students.     But at the same time, adversity is not easy.    It takes effort and the pressure is debilitating if we aren't ready for it.    We need that pressure, to help drive our creativity and our innovation, but harnessing that power takes leaders who can embrace adversity and use it without feeling sorry for ourselves or becoming 'victims', longing for our comfortable routines. Part rant, part inspiration, and part storytelling, this episode helps us remember that challenge, adversity and 'getting out of the box' aren't just concepts we deliver in our own programs, but also essential to our own work and life! Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I always knew when I was in an 'initiatory experience', because my peaceful, stable, predictable life would suddenly be turned upside down. It is not a pleasant experience, generally, and I would be forced to let go, grow, learn, and expand.  Sometimes, the initiation started due to a relationship, or sometimes, community pressures. Other times, it happened more physically, with pressure or forces that left me with no other options.   No amount of bargaining, discussion or denial would bring relief.    I learned that when I started feeling that kind of feeling, I was going on a ride and it wasn't 'optional'.    It was never at an optimal time, either.   Right now, there are millions without power, and hundreds of thousands of people dealing with the aftermath of torrential rainfall, unbelievable winds and the scouring roaring of floodwaters unleashed.  This event is a marker, a milestone, even, in the lives of those who have experienced this historic storm, and they are in the middle of an 'initiation'. Understanding what is happening is the key to better decision-making, problem-solving, mental health care and finding our way back to our center, and then finding a path forward. My heart goes out to the hundreds of thousands whose lives have been shattered, and this episode is for them and all of us who care for them at a distance, who want to support them as we watch their struggle.  The power of climate change is here for us all, and the sooner we learn to navigate and understand this new world, the better off we will be as individuals and as part of the natural ecology. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It was through Tom Brown Jr and his Tracker School that I came to meet John.  It was 1984, on a farm in western New Jersey, and he was an instructor at the school, and spending seven days with him and the rest of the staff and Tom changed the direction of my life in a radical way. John was pulled to New Mexico in 1986, where he founded The Tracking Project, and began running rites of passage camps for boys and girls, as well as adult trainings and retreats. I was incredibly fortunate to spend time in his Nurturing the Roots Mentoring Program, where he had gathered elders from Australia, Sweden, Hawaii, Mexico, Brazil, and across North America.   Learning and connecting with those elders and John and his staff was a revelation that blew my mind, because they held a mentoring space that was unlike anything I had experienced before.    This experience changed the way I tracked animals, connected to nature, taught and led my camps, trainings and programs. It even affected my personal and community relationships   In this first of a series of conversations, we dive into what learning tracking does to us and for us as human beings, and John describes his apprenticeship with some of the best trackers in the world.    Please enjoy Episode #133. Website:   https://thetrackingproject.org/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/thetrackingproject/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/TheTrackingProject/ YouTube:    https://www.youtube.com/@thetrackingproject Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This week's Forest Educator Spotlight is all about After School Programs. In this episode, I'm sharing some tips about what you can and can't do in an after-school program, how to build connections with the students, the program model and the business model, and so much more. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

An aspect of nature education that I believe is greatly overlooked is the ability and benefit it gives young people to 'Do Hard Things'.  This happens when we learn to climb a steep hill, climb a tree, master carving knife safety or learn to think of others in our groups!  It happens when we learn to be safe and respectful about campfires.  It happens when we begin our studies in wild foods, birds, animal tracks, trees or bushcraft skills.  (This list could be very, very substantial!) All of these help our young people to learn to push through the very real walls of struggle, of effort, of perseverance, and to not shy away from hard work.    It helps them learn about delayed gratification, and find their own 'deep inner drive' that will serve them well in the coming years of continued change. Whether we are running a forest preschool, guiding adults across a glacier, teaching archery at a wilderness camp or leading a nature based mythology & poetry retreat, we are at our most core level, helping our students become resilient & resourceful in the face of looming change that we will all experience in our lifetime.  It's a mission worth supporting, and has incredible returns on the investment for schools, organizations and parents who want to make a difference for our youngest generation. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode explores the powerful role that communication and visibility skills play in the overall long term success of our nature programs.    It's not a reach to say that they are absolutely essential for us to master, and they are also the skills that we probably are the most reluctant to practice.      Nature Educator April Zajko M.Ed. and I dive into these concepts and we share stories about our own journey as visionary business leaders and how we learned important lessons the hard way over the past few decades. Social media, written newsletters and blogs, video content and public speaking all form a 'communications ecosystem' that gives us all many ways to connect to our potential students, each with their advantages and disadvantages.   We discuss some of the many ways to achieve our goals if we are willing to let go of our fear, have a curious mind, are willing to learn from failure and persevere! Visibility & Advocacy Workshop Link:    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-power-of-visibility-advocacy-for-nature-based-educators-registration-878507909807?aff=April&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2WxncUdJe5adelA1Y5YArBCfj_-B9ecyT725l8Bd5qIMI5SZfzAPQIP4A_aem_AYvfUzHx6HXHfWbOAhqTCuNKE99ZM2q65r9VHNNIU9TPJP0Yk0iXH7YupIUvcunxcIt1f1hdntgGFFMns0m_lcnf Connect with April: https://aprilsteachingtree.com/ Nature Inspired Teacher Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/1843474542616408 Website/Courses:   https://aprilsteachingtree.mykajabi.com/links Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

There are so many powerful learning elements that are part of the expansive topic of 'Food', it's hard to know where to start.    When it comes to nature based learning, campfire cooking and 'hearthcraft', we can start with campfire circle design, hardwood vs softwood firewood, cooking utensils and the like.   Or we can just jump right into the cooking, and get our flavor receptors firing with more traditional methods and means.   We can even go full foraging style, to include gathered berries, teas or nuts, with plant identification, storage and preparation experiences too. I've seen the transformation that happens when someone tastes black birch tea sweetened with maple syrup for the first time, or bites into an acorn pancake slathered with chokecherry syrup.    Clay baked butternut squash stuffed with nuts, dried fruit, and lots of savory spices will make even the most reluctant vegetable eater suddenly become willing to try a slice! Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 1 out of 5 U.S. children ages 3-17 has a mental, emotional, behavioral or developmental disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents, affecting nearly 1 in 12 children and 1 in 4 adolescents. This means that it's almost a certainty that if you are working with children, teens or adults, you're getting a fair number of children or teens in your programs who are struggling with a myriad of issues.   I know that this isn't exactly groundbreaking news, especially if you've been in the trenches in the past few years. This episode dives into the different ways that working with special needs children can affect us as nature educators, in both positive and negative ways.  We get into different ways to help screen for behavior or sensory issues in ways that will help us get the right kind of students who are appropriate for our work,  Understanding special needs students, their parents and their impact on our work is critical to our long-term success.   Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It was early August, in Harlemville New York.  It was a six week immersion into the natural world, in one of my first 'wilderness skills learning intensives', with just a few tools, a blanket and a desire to see the world from a different perspective. This episode is a recounting of some of my adventures with wildlife, and why I still can't stand roasted apples.    Thank you to the listeners who have been asking for more stories.  These are for you! Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The paths we take in our journey as educators are incredibly diverse and unique to each of us.  We all have different origins, with mentors, teachers, opportunities and our communities all influencing how we do what we do. In this episode, we explore some of the ways we end up in our 'forest educator lanes', and how to change lanes, as well as why it can be incredibly beneficial to ourselves, our families, our students and our professional growth to make a shift.    Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Sandy has created K-12 science curricula and international programs for schools including STEM Expeditions, credit-bearing field study courses that included taking students on trips throughout the US and internationally to South Africa, Iceland, and Belize. She is a Level 3 International Wildlife Tracker, in both the US and South Africa, certified through Cybertracker in track ID and Trailing. Sandy loves to organize adult and student trips to South Africa and travels there yearly to take people into the bush and work on her tracking skills. In today's episode, we discuss: The freedom of not having a standard curriculum The advantage of having a team How to get kids involved in tracking Sandy's love for South Africa Bringing nature experiences into classrooms and so much more! Connect with Sandy: https://www.originalwisdom.com/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

An aspect of nature education that I believe is greatly overlooked is the ability and benefit it gives young people to 'Do Hard Things'.  This happens when we learn to climb a steep hill, climb a tree, master carving knife safety or learn to think of others in our groups!  It happens when we learn to be safe and respectful about campfires.  It happens when we begin our studies in wild foods, birds, animal tracks, trees or bushcraft skills.  (This list could be very, very substantial!) All of these help our young people to learn to push through the very real walls of struggle, of effort, of perseverance, and to not shy away from hard work.    It helps them learn about delayed gratification, and find their own 'deep inner drive' that will serve them well in the coming years of continued change. Whether we are running a forest preschool, guiding adults across a glacier, teaching archery at a wilderness camp or leading a nature based mythology & poetry retreat, we are at our most core level, helping our students become resilient & resourceful in the face of looming change that we will all experience in our lifetime.  It's a mission worth supporting, and has incredible returns on the investment for schools, organizations and parents who want to make a difference for our youngest generation. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In the olden days, before the internet, when you ran a workshop or a skills class or wild foods program, you could usually skip the student evaluation forms and questionnaires.  Participants just 'got the experience' and that was the deal.  There wasn't any trolling, or review bombing, because there were no online reviews.  You might get a letter, if people felt a certain way about your offering, but often times it was something positive rather than negative. In 2024, however, outcomes and evaluations matter.  We have a lot more opportunities to connect with our students, and understand the class from their perspective, and it's a whole new world.    Quite frankly, it's a much better world.    The simple truth is this:  The more we ask, the more we know, and the faster we can get better at what we do. This episode is a quick dive into understanding the importance of understanding our metrics, gathering data, self evaluations vs outside assessment, setting our own goals and best of all, how they can help make us better educators. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The future of nature based learning looks bright, due to a growing awareness of the benefits of time spent outside.    It's an exciting time to be an educator right now, and there is a lot of reason to have a very real sense of hope that has been a long time in coming. There are tens of thousands of nature educators who have been working for decades to help make this happen, and that generally has happened with low pay, long hours and self-created curriculum and activities.  It's truly a grassroots process that deserves it's 'moment' in the greater field of education, both private and public. However, there is a big jump from grassroots to legitimate public education partner, and that jump is not without risk and challenges. In this episode, I share some of the biggest questions I have had running through my head as I contemplate this process, and how it might succeed (or fail) in the coming years.  Right now, there are more questions than answers, but asking the right things can help us find options and solutions so we don't have to reinvent the wheel or 'wing it' when the stakes are high. I'm hoping this audio can help stimulate YOUR big questions, and maybe generate some ideas and solutions along the way.  After all, it's going to take ALL of us sharing our thoughts and opinions to find some different, unique models for urban schools, or older grades, or staff and teacher training.  Part of the vision of this podcast is to bring us together and hear lots of different and unique voices and perspectives, and celebrate them all. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Today's Forest Educator Spotlight is all about the best-kept secret for Forest Educators: the Natural Advantage. When we implement this three-part framework in our programs, we can have the biggest impact. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

You all know I like a good analogy, so I'm going to say that the duo of Marika and Angela reminds me of the heroes of my comic book days, when I was a collector.  I'd mow lawns for my neighbors, and then ride my bike six miles into town to buy my week's new issues.  One of my favorites was the Marvel Team-Up comic, where two heroes who don't usually 'hero' together do what they do best, and take care of business.  Spider-Man and Daredevil.  Wolverine and Iron Fist.  It was a 'golden age' of comics back then. Well, seriously, this marriage of occupational therapy and early childhood education in nature is just so SOLID.  There are no weaknesses in their game.  And Marika and Angela have teamed up despite the long distance between their Bay Area of California and Florida locations.    Our conversation covers WHY the approaches of OT is so effective for young people.  We dig into the detailed observations that therapists see in their students, and how it adds a powerful dimension to more traditional 'forest school' reporting.   The medical field adds credibility to our nature-based approaches that opens doors, gets attention and creates opportunities that help all of us doing nature work everywhere.  It's a good idea to know about it!  Marika and Angela on Instagram @naturebasedtherapists - https://www.instagram.com/naturebasedtherapists/ Nature Based Therapy Boot Camp Course - https://grounded-to-grow.thinkific.com/courses/nature-based-therapy-boot-camp Grounded to Grow 2024 Retreat - https://www.groundedtogrow.com/ Bearfoot Website: https://www.bearfootoccupationaltherapy.com/ Bearfoot Instagram @bearfoot_ot - https://www.instagram.com/bearfoot_ot/ Treeline Enrichment Website: https://www.treelineenrichment.com/ Treeline Enrichment Instagram @treelineenrichment - https://www.instagram.com/treelineenrichment/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode is a conversation with Jonny Walker, a poetry, creative writing and language arts educator from London/Uk.  We explore how 'traditional' or classical education benefits when we incorporate nature based approaches that deliver powerful outcomes for students and schools.  He shares about the need for direct experience and full contact with nature for awakening and expanding the outer and inner world of his students, which leads to inspiration, depth and courage, which are all essential for the creative arts. We discuss how Language Arts educators can become 'Forest Educators' when they take that first step in planning retreats and 'field trips' that can change the course of the lives of their students.  We also discuss an upcoming Educator Retreat in April that dives into Poetry, Writing, Expression, Mythology and Nature, where he will share his approach and methods.  Jonny shares how important it is for educators to rediscover and ignite our own passion for writing, and how he likes to give educators lots of first-hand experiences so that they understand them from a student's perspective. Educator Retreat Link:    foresteducator.com/mythology-poetry-nature-retreat Youth Retreat Link:   foresteducator.com/bards-and-demigods-youth-retreat  Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Ever since I was a kid I was always fascinated by the concept of 'time'.    I know I am not alone, because it's a pretty popular theme over the last four decades or so.  Madeline L'Engle's Wrinkle In Time was one of my first steps into a different world.  The time differences in the world of Narnia was pretty interesting!  Then came the wildly unexpected Time Bandits and the fun of Back to the Future. The Time Lords and Dr. Who.  The resetting of time in Edge of Tomorrow high stakes battle for Earth.  Hot Tub Time Machine.  The compression of time in Interstellar and Inception.  HG Wells' The Time Machine.  Groundhog Day.  The Time Heists of Avengers: Endgame and the TVA of Marvel's Loki were some of the more recent forays, but there are literally tons of shows like Quantum Leap, or Travellers, or The Umbrella Academy and yes, Outlander.... I'd like to believe that time travel is possible but it's probably not, at least, not in the way that these shows seem to depict it.  However, there are some situations and experiences that I have had in my forays into nature and leading groups that have broadened my understanding of time and its paradoxes and oddities and gifts, so, I figured we better talk about it! No hot tubs required! Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

After doing fifty interviews with incredible educators and also fifty solo 'spotlight' episodes, I thought it was worth a moment to share some of my biggest 'aha' moments, surprising discoveries and also where this podcast might be going in Year Two.       Doing two episodes a week has been an honor and a privilege, and also exhausting at times, too!    I am not sure how I managed it, some months, but I'm very glad I did! The field of nature education is growing exponentially, and there are a lot of important elements to discuss as we move forward to help children and adults find their way in this constantly changing world.   Our grandchildren are counting on us to get things right, and this is a path with honor and purpose.     Special thanks to everyone who is listening.    You are all keeping me going, and I appreciate you all! Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I'm thrilled to introduce you to today's guest, Nate Summers. Nate brings unique blend of primal adventure, deep nature connection, survival skills, and natural healing and medicine to his trainings, consultation, and writing. In this episode, we talk about wilderness survival skills and personal growth, the importance of connecting with nature and traditional skills, Nate's books and writing experience, archetypes and cultural significance, and so much more.  Connect with Nate: https://www.primalnate.com/ https://www.instagram.com/primalnate Support his new Kickstarter campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/scoutcraft/scoutcraft-a-guidebook?ref=discovery&term=scoutcraft Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Dealing with the logistics of a day or several days of steady rain can be challenging for Forest Educators, with keeping everyone warm, dry, happy and engaged.  In this episode, we go deeper, to the 'human development' side of Forest Ed, where we model ways of experiencing the natural world that go against the norm of our cultural messaging.   Viewed and experienced through these lenses, rainy weather, or cold or heat or snow, all offer portals to understanding how our bodies will follow our attentive focus.  These are also opportunities to connect with our friends and mentors more fully, sharing stories and entering a space of creativity that is shaped by the seasons and the weather of the day.  Learning to shift our mood and attitude from discomfort to joy is a life skill not found often in youth programs, and these lessons are offered by thunderstorm, or cold fronts or heat domes, which are real and powerful forces of nature.  Please enjoy episode 32. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode explores the phenomenon that often occurs when we work with people in nature, where there is a moment of touching the divine, or the light.  We also tackle the flip side, where someone in our care goes down, to the rich, warm darkness, where things get raw and primal.    I share about why I find the duality principle both lazy and inadequate as a metaphor, and how its oversimplification can be limiting or even traumatizing for some students.  Using the 'ecosystem' as a new model, I share examples of approaches I've found helpful when either polarity shows up in our work as educators, often unexpectedly.    Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The search for knowledge sometimes involves tedious, patient work when it comes to understanding the diet of our distant ancestors.    It can involve charcoal analysis at a microscopic level from campfires from 10,000 BC.   It can involve the scrapings of carbonized food remains from pottery shards that are clues to what was eaten or used medicinally.    It's not particularly flashy or exciting like demonstrating fire by friction to a group of fifth graders, but Max Gordon actually does both. Max founded the Lionman School of Rewilding and offers programs in nature awareness, earth living skills and crafts in New York, New Jersey and Florida, but his passion extends both forward to future generations while also looking back to the distant past to see our trajectories of human evolution.   Our conversation dives into cave art, Utzi the Iceman, wilderness school administration life and even medieval biology.     Website:      https://lionmanrewilding.com/ Facebook:       https://www.facebook.com/lionmanrewilding2 Instagram:      https://www.instagram.com/lionmanrewilding/ YouTube:      https://www.youtube.com/@LionManReWilding LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/company/lionman-school-of-rewilding/ Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It seems like everyone is talking about nature connection these days, (especially if you work in outdoor education), but what exactly do we mean by this expression?  More importantly, how can we understand the idea and the practice from an intellectual and 'sensory' perspective?    In this episode, I dive into the deep end to try to unravel the nuances of some different kinds of awareness and connection.  We will explore our current plight as human beings, how our culture drives us away from meaningful connection and creates a reality that seems inescapable to those who are trapped in the 'house of mirrors'.    I'm not going to sugarcoat anything here, and just say it;  This episode is a little 'out there'. It's difficult to talk about the effects of our perception, and the 'reality shaping' nuances that are possible when our language and values offer limited ways to express certain concepts and ideas.   At this point, all we can do is start somewhere, and hope that these conversations can grow in understanding and scale, as we build a more comprehensive library of perspectives and practices.    In the end, the key to a better future for our grandchildren may be planted like seeds in the games, exercises, activities and challenges that Forest Educators are leading every day, all over the world.   Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

When Rimi and her husband chose to 'Take the Leap', it didn't seem TOO difficult.  Leaving a good corporate job with a decent nest egg and opening an island retreat center in the Azores seemed relatively safe.    Everything sounds good in theory. In your living room in Massachusetts.    However, things can go south in a hurry when 'island time' and contractors and language barriers all combine into a perfect storm.  That living room feeling can seem impossibly far away.   Hard times show us who we are inside, but they can also just be SO hard to navigate, and there are many who lose their way when the chips are down. In this episode, Rimi shares her story of resilience, of reinvention of self and heart, and the power of creativity and healing that led to her development of amazing Retreats that combine nature, yoga, island cuisine and deep renewal.  Black sand beaches, hot springs, volcanic energy and local foods and fruits all work a powerful magic that she harnesses to point in a different direction for our lives, one that can have a lasting impact on all of us for generations. Connect with Rimi: Website:   https://www.minuvida.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/rimichakra_/?hl=en Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/minuvida_azores/ Rootsilience Book:  https://www.rootsilience.com/book Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/rimi.chakraborty/ Leadership Mastermind (free):  https://www.rootsilience.com/courses/mastermind Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The world of medicine and academia seems to run on a different timeline than the modern world. Changes take time to process, evaluate, become revised and eventually, approved for integration into the working model for treatment or training.  There are good reasons for this process, because acting too quickly can create a lot of confusion, waste of money and time and generally degrade the public opinion of these institutions, but to an outsider, it can be maddening to watch and wait in real time. The origins of 'eco-psychology' as a branch of mental health treatment and approach began on the personal experiences of therapists and counsellors, and hundreds of studies are confirming its efficacy over the past twenty years.   My guest in this episode is Linda Buzzell, MA, LMFT, who is an adjunct faculty at Pacifica Graduate Institute, author of Ecopsychology: Healing with Nature in Mind and an ecopsychologist.  She shares why nature is important in the healing process for humans for both physical and mental health, and how it can benefit us as educators to understand what is happening when we take children or adults outside. LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-buzzell-ma-lmft-2949ab13/ Book:       https://www.amazon.com/Ecotherapy-Healing-Nature-Linda-Buzzell/dp/1578051614/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aAMoldtOyUOD9zSZw0MQx22aqKO-MsSYM5jdfT4ltxHGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.4laEq4b-6Uu9e2U3_hslfnQ8jv4wmV-th0Rgv0Iq99E&dib_tag=se&qid=1724950917&refinements=p_27%3ALinda+Buzzell&s=books&sr=1-1 Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/p/Linda-Buzzell-100063776733917/ Pacifica Graduate Institute:   https://www.pacifica.edu/pacifica-news/nature-connection-practices-that-heal-an-interview-with-linda-buzzell-lmft/ Written Articles:    https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Linda-Buzzell Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

If you want to add depth and meaning to your relationship to the natural world, a little research, study and discovery of our natural history, geography, cultural history and flora & fauna that surrounds us!  It's all about understanding different unique aspects of our small corner of the world, and how it's special, just like our students and ourselves.     Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This week's Forest Educator Spotlight is all about campfires and the magic they hold for all of us. The campfire brings a sense of comfort, connection, and calm, and this tradition has been around for thousands of years across all cultures around the world. Fire making is also a great way to introduce the concept of 'mastery' to our students, with tremendous benefits in leadership, problem-solving, awareness, attention to detail, and much more.  I also share some of my best tips for working with campfires in a nature program in a safe and positive way. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

What does an ocean conservation president do when everything shuts down during a pandemic?   Well, she discovers a world full of life and wonder in the urban Los Angeles landscape, of course.  In between field study assignments for whales and dolphins as part of her landmark marine biology studies, she found astonishing forms of nature in the most unlikely places.  We talk about her journey both as a scientist and wildlife advocate, and I explain why she's an incredible 'Forest Educator' despite being far from most forests on a daily basis.    "What about Kelp?" I think to myself, but our small definitions don't really matter in light of the ecological crisis unfolding before us on a daily basis. Maddalena is the author of the recently published Stranded: Finding Nature in Uncertain Places, as well as Beautiful Minds: The Parallel Lives of Great Apes and Dolphins, and Dolphin Confidential: Confessions of a Field Biologist.   Her stories and writing describe a lifetime of passion for the natural world, and our conversation dives into her many books, as well as her work as the President and co-founder of the Ocean Conservation Society. Connect with Maddalena: https://www.oceanconservation.org/maddalena-bearzi-author/ https://www.amazon.com/Stranded-Finding-Nature-Uncertain-Times/dp/1597146048/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205611&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Dolphin-Confidential-Confessions-Field-Biologist-ebook/dp/B007CN44SM/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205639&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-4 https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Minds-Parallel-Lives-Dolphins-ebook/dp/B002P686QC/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1NH622IZ665L2&keywords=Maddalena+Bearzi&qid=1698205639&sprefix=maddalena+bearzi%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-5 Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It's one thing to learn wilderness skills, and it's another thing entirely to integrate them into our lives in meaningful ways.  This is the path that Dariya and Jefferie are walking, with the added ingredients of a newborn child and teaching both online and in-person classes! We talk about their desire, no, their NEED to live in a way that reflects their values, with drinking only spring water, eating locally, and incorporating wild foods and movement into their lives as well. Walking through this modern world while honoring our ancestral heritage is actually really hard, and we talk about the commitment needed to make it work. Forest Educators like Dariya and Jefferie are connecting with a growing number of adults who are feeling drawn to live closer to nature, and with like-minded individuals, so they also are developing a strong community aspect to their offerings. The wild magic of the northern forests in Ontario provides the backdrop for our conversation, offering hope for a future where we learn to live more gently on our one green earth.  Website:    https://www.findingpolaris.org/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/findingpolariswc/ Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/findingpolariswc Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode is Part 2 of a 2-part episode featuring Erik Rasmussen of Making Tracks Earth Education. We discuss social media, experience in addition to skill-building, and innovative ways to adapt programming to leverage nature as the world's greatest facilitator. Did you miss part 1? Make sure to go back and listen to last week's episode with Erik, too! Connect with Erik and Making Tracks Earth Education: https://www.makingtracks.co/ https://www.instagram.com/ehrasmussen94/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In this episode, I'm joined by Aurélia Cheuvreul-Gaud, TedX Speaker and Author of the 7 Connection Gateways Pedagogy. She's passionate about environmentalism and biodiversity, and strives to connect urban children from standard education systems to the natural world. We talk about the challenges that teachers and children face in standard schools, and why it's important to consider this a long-term approach. Connect with Aurélia: https://www.aureliacg.com/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm sharing some of my best tips for staff hiring and training. I hope this helps you keep in mind some different ways to think about how to effectively use your team to achieve your desired program outcomes. There are always things that come up with your staff that are totally unexpected, so hopefully this episode also prepares you for the unknown. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Helping the Indian people have access to hundreds of hikes, treks and nature exploration is an ambitious, constantly evolving vision that has seen amazing success for the IndiaHikes organization.  In this episode, I am talking with Lakshmi Selvakumaran, director of training and research and she shares the origin story of IndiaHikes, as well as details about who they serve, how they build the culture of their team of leaders and much more.    When I discovered them through Instagram, I thought it was a 'trekking company' that catered to foreign tourists who hiked and climbed in these incredible mountains, but I soon realized that their mission was very different from that initial impression.  Honestly, the more I see and learn about what they do, and how they do it and how they are now expanding to serve schools and children, the more I am in awe of their attention to detail and hard work.   I am impressed, and thankful and excited to share this interview with you all.    Please enjoy Episode #49. Connect with Lakshmi: IndiaHikes.com Instagram:   @IndiaHikes  Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In the field of Forest Education, I'd say that we are fairly well stocked with dedicated people on the front lines, working directly with children, youth and adults on a daily basis. We also have a wonderful group of passionate directors and program leaders, who do a lot of the unseen work (some might say the 'dirty work') of daily administrative duties that have to be done to keep the doors open. But the one area that sometimes goes unnoticed is the Advocacy Level, and the Big Picture Level, and the Long Range Thinking Level, where we might get traction at a city, state or country level. It's at this level where having someone with strong nature education roots, who can consult with the decision makers to bring about truly equitable, awesome programming that will affect the lives of potentially millions of people. Well, my guest today is one of those 'influencers'. Jeff Baierlein is a tireless force for good, often traveling all around the world to consult with companies, governments and leaders. He works in risk management, outdoor program development and offers trainings, 'best practices' and support to allow them to benefit from successful models here in North America. It can take years of steady advocacy, training and countless meetings to make programs like this happen, and he's right in the thick of this powerful change. Most of the time, there is little fanfare or attention that can celebrate the achievements of this branch of 'Forest Educators', so I am really happy to do that in my own small way, and feature his work for all of us to appreciate! Jeff's journey from a wilderness educator to Outward Bound Instructor to Wilderness Medical Associates to the director of Viristar is impressive, and I really enjoyed our conversation! Connect with Jeff: https://www.viristar.com/ https://www.instagram.com/viristarconsulting/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Fear of being uncomfortable lurks behind almost every outdoor experience when we are first learning to deal with nature's 'moods'. The purifying intensity of cold scours the world when it moves across our landscape, unstoppable and pervasive.  All the animals, trees, birds, insects and plants respond in different ways to survive, including all of us human mammals too.  Dealing with the mental aspects of cold is part physical preparation, part mental adjustment and part acceptance and gratitude for the winter season, and our experience of 'cold' changes as we build a better relationship with this force of nature. As leaders and educators, we can bring a new understanding of cold weather to our students and program participants, and give them the gift of what I call the 'Crucible of Leadership'.  It's one of the missing ingredients in our communities right now, and our future generations will build a new path from the work we do today. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Life in the Great White North can be cold and hard at times, but that makes the warmer seasons all the sweeter, from Maple Syrup Season to Sumac Gathering and so much more.  The power of nature is reflected in daily life, and living close helps us see the metaphors and parallels that we echo in our own human cultural patterns. Join Chris Gilmour and I as we explore forest educator training, youth adventure, stories of beaver ponds and much more in this episode.  Chris shares powerful lessons that draw from over twenty years as an outdoor professional, leading groups, apprenticeships and foraging programs, with his experience in wilderness survival, bushcraft, nature awareness and earth living skills too.    It was really interesting to hear his perspective on the value of the 'Soft Skills' that are often misunderstood or underutilized in many traditional wilderness programs, and how they are shaping his training and students in powerful, beneficial ways. ------- Connect with Chris: Website:   https://www.chrisoutdoors.ca/ Wild Muskoka Botanicals Website:   https://wildmuskoka.com/ Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/chrisoutdoorson/ Wild Muskoka Botanicals Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/wildmuskoka/ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/c/ChangingWorldProjectChrisOutdoors LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisoutdoors/?trk=public_profile_recommendations&originalSubdomain=ca Email:    Chris@chrisoutdoors.ca Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/chrisoutdoorsmentoring TikTok:   https://www.tiktok.com/@chrisoutdoorson?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0zB5lj6iB9vK8Eg5n4X2Yesa0zvz2pHJC4IhqVpe3Hd_MmBSrEiyRK2qQ_aem_R2l6Dd2Vh8liJszokrSGsA Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

My guest in today’s episode is Erica Hermsen, the director and founder of Everwild Forest School. With a background in conservation and wilderness education, ever since her undergraduate education, Erica knew that she wanted to find a way to capture the magic and massive impact that outdoor programming can have for kids. Once she had her own daughters, she became even more determined to find a way to battle all the challenges facing kids today. Her family moved to Boise and she founded Everwild Forest School… right in the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. In this episode, Erica shares her successes, obstacles, and lessons learned in the past 3 years as a forest educator.  Connect with Erica & Everwild Forest School: https://everwildforestschool.org/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode is an exploration of some of the critical issues we encounter as nature based educators when we enter the public education system.  The road to Forest Education for all seems to point to a relationship with public schooling, and it's been my experience that going in with our eyes wide open is a great strategy.  I use several analogies for the massive bureaucracy that makes up the public system, including The Cargo Ship and the Sail Boat, and The Borg from Star Trek, (You too, will be assimilated by The Borg!) and a few others, so hopefully I don't come across as too harsh.  You'll have to be the judge and let me know if I crossed any lines! We have some big challenges ahead, we're underfunded and we're small, but we have an incredible ally called Nature.  We have biology and genetics and some ancestral heritage on our side to boot, and we have some learning models that deliver powerful results.  I'm not sure exactly how we are going to make this happen, or how long it's going to take, but I'm really excited to see what happens next. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It's never easy to be 'the first' in a pioneering effort.  There is always a constant push to communicate the value, and the need, and the positive outcomes to people who may not even know they are missing out on something amazing and important.    Each generation that follows has it a little easier, because they are arriving and standing on the foundations that the first pioneer laid, for the benefit of future generations of students and educators. For the past four years, Carol Sanchez has established the Rizoma Communidad Educativa, which is a Forest School based in Quita, Ecuador.  Her emphasis on the importance of family involvement, students with special needs and abilities form the basis of our conversation, which was helped greatly with her son as translator.   It was a joy and an honor to hear her story, and share her vision, and it's one that I believe will stay in our hearts and minds for a long time! Facebook:      https://www.facebook.com/p/Rizoma-Comunidad-Educativa-100064045991860/ Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/rizomacomunidadeducativa/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR16-x1ICZT2Nf3Z5kfGxfYPb86O8JBytTTOU-7x4wYzmZCIAyPgC4yvtBM_aem_Ab3F8QQPbA4gVOYlqkFL_e0bGRfYrUTzEt_9dlAPJNYhk3k_Z8JRlqLPfR5XDK6KPKAG2ny-A35GxsyCH4l-VRc5 YouTube:      https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2m6nEsSWXtlVV0gsgILaPw Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode is Part 1 of a 2-part episode featuring Erik Rasmussen of Making Tracks Earth Education. We discuss AI, recreation education as it compares to survival education, and the importance and disconnection of wilderness skills in today's modern world. Tune in next Thursday for Part 2 of this conversation with Erik. Connect with Erik and Making Tracks Earth Education: https://www.makingtracks.co/ https://www.instagram.com/ehrasmussen94/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In this Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm talking about the art of tracking, why it's important, and how to introduce tracking skills and activities to your programs for kids. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

In this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm sharing the most key items I carry with me in my pack on forest adventures. You might need to adapt this list to your own preferences and environmental circumstances, but hopefully this list gives you some ideas about some items you might not have thought about before. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode explores a vision of nature education that sees millions of children across the US and the world, in a meaningful and effective way.   The barriers that we face loom tall, but they are not insurmountable.  We need certain things in place to actually scale our best working models, like funding, resources, advocacy and training/mentoring, and achieving this takes a considerable amount of time and expertise and experience that we are currently missing in our nature educator community.    I discuss the pros and cons of a spectrum of franchises and a few ideas for expanding our goals and beginning to manifest this visionary journey that could transform our world. Please note: This is part one of a three part series. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I know there's a universal reality that 'change is the only constant', but it's also human to try to enjoy stability for as long as possible, especially if it's a pleasant experience.   Once it occurs, we transition, we adapt and we hope for continued stability in the new landscape. This is an ongoing phenomenon, and it's come to this podcast as well. In this episode, I share these changes as well as the 'why' they are important, especially now. These strategic shifts are aimed at helping us move towards a world where the majority of children and adults have the opportunity to get the 'natural advantage'. In a world with climate stability, political leadership willing to make long term changes over short term bandaids, we would conceivably have a few generations to wait while the current nature movement moves at its current pace, towards a culture that values and protects nature and all of the gifts it offers humanity.    In our current reality, we don't have the luxury of that kind of glacial time.    The Forest Education endgame is a massive beneficial asset to our culture, but it will only matter if we can accelerate the steps we need to take to make it a reality.  It's time for us to move forward with thoughtfulness, care, passion and well designed approaches that can make a difference for millions of children, teens and adults. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Sometimes, nature education can be 'up close and personal', like a walk in the woods, or picking raspberries.  Sometimes, it's more about paradigm shifts, technology strategies and learning to avoid being manipulated by intellectually dishonest players in our current systems.    In this conversation with author and educator Jeff Share, we talk about some of the fundamental problems around climate change and effective messaging, shifting narratives, and educational leadership that begins in middle and high school with positive success.   Jeff's research and practice focuses on transformative education, preparing K-12 educators to teach critical media literacy for social and environmental justice. The second edition of his book, "Media Literacy is Elementary: Teaching Youth to Critically Read and Create Media" was published in 2015.  Two years later, he co-authored with Richard Beach and Allen Webb, "Teaching Climate Change to Adolescents: Reading, Writing, and Making a Difference." Collaborating with Douglas Kellner (2019) they published, "The Critical Media Literacy Guide: Engaging Media and Transforming Education."  Jeff is a Fulbright Specialist and English Language Specialist for the US State Department who has taught critical media literacy and Environmental Justice in India, Argentina, Mexico, China, and Germany. As the climate crisis continues to unfold in various ways around our world, it is apparent that our children will need MANY skills and tools to assist them in their solutions and work, and I believe there is a tremendous value for all nature educators to network with professionals like Jeff, so we can broaden our scope and be inclusive to the wealth of knowledge that is available. Connect with Jeff: Website:     https://jshare.wixsite.com/jeffshare Twitter/X:   https://twitter.com/critml?lang=en LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-share-71155a9/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/people/Jeff-Share/2541535/?paipv=0&eav=AfZblN6YfbbzSwUMoaI2l1fTUKwwcb74tBvvvDTh0nRdFfjsadkgaO_7tRXyFSU_dY4&_rdr Book:  For the Love of Nature:  Eco-writing the world     https://www.amazon.com/Love-Nature-Ecowriting-World-Counterpoints/dp/1433199793/ref=sr_1_1?crid=DL7O623UE7RZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fj0BC9NSY2zQkkvaGMWineGENPai9iHpclw5WnxJM1zjkcS-oTCW2Cp4CB8zot3iAeG2zB6Na3XlNwlkMafOoNJ1jh5zMCAsce47nA6im2-Pq_scKBSkVuM7UF8oWRCqq_IoQjBloMlZvJycs2AYalJJfLftAmkr7sPeJRGaGIBV8cEmJ1NbR6uKQIUQqDXNcrP_KVQh5PLksEOMf2E290H5DvpM9drZYdmlwYxaK9M.MM7jiBvXQTY2n12hsBGzuIwZXFzEy75OkDsnd3Yk9Lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=Jeff+Share&qid=1715233235&sprefix=jeff+share%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1 Book:  The Critical Media Literacy Guide     https://www.amazon.com/Critical-Literacy-Guides-Scholarship-Education/dp/900440452X/ref=sr_1_2?crid=DL7O623UE7RZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fj0BC9NSY2zQkkvaGMWineGENPai9iHpclw5WnxJM1zjkcS-oTCW2Cp4CB8zot3iAeG2zB6Na3XlNwlkMafOoNJ1jh5zMCAsce47nA6im2-Pq_scKBSkVuM7UF8oWRCqq_IoQjBloMlZvJycs2AYalJJfLftAmkr7sPeJRGaGIBV8cEmJ1NbR6uKQIUQqDXNcrP_KVQh5PLksEOMf2E290H5DvpM9drZYdmlwYxaK9M.MM7jiBvXQTY2n12hsBGzuIwZXFzEy75OkDsnd3Yk9Lo&dib_tag=se&keywords=Jeff+Share&qid=1715233318&sprefix=jeff+share%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-2 Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

If you are a Nature Program Director looking for helpers or a Nature Educator looking for work, this episode can help you find the right situation or people for a positive, mutually beneficial experience! Nature programs, wilderness camps, youth therapy expeditions and forest schools are always looking for great candidates, and there are lots of awesome educators and counselors and leaders looking for their next adventure.  So, how do we find the right situation on both sides of this organizational/individual relationship? We explore strategies for hiring nature-based staff, avoiding the 'Unicorn Trap' and communication tips so Directors and Leaders can find the right staff for their needs.  We will also flip to the other side of the equation and talk about ways that Educators, Wilderness Instructors and Nature Counselors can get crystal clear on what kinds of environments will match expectations, avoid energy sucking conflicts and 'read between the lines' to get the whole picture of a prospective program before you commit for the full season. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

I'm pretty sure we could all benefit from reducing the frenetic pace that seems to go hand in hand with our modern culture. It's a great topic, but it's not what I'm describing in this episode!  Instead, I've spent most of my time on two of the most important tools in my 'nature awareness' toolkit that I know.  They are based in mindfulness practices that have helped me immensely in multiple ways in my life, and in my nature education programs and trainings. They focus on very subtle body awareness techniques that can be used to enhance our energy, focus, inner 'alignment' and decision making.  They slow down time, and give us choices when we are under pressure.  They also help us access some very powerful states of awareness that have saved me in more than a few situations both in the woods and in our modern cultural settings.  These two practices are called 'breath to heart' and 'quarter-time', which I learned over years of study with Tom Brown, Jr in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey.  I don't know of the exact origins of each, but they were part of a concerted effort by Tom and his instructors to give us layers of exercises that have delivered powerful outcomes when I have needed them most. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Emily Woodmansee seems to always be in the right place at the right time, to learn, grow, educate, and transform the educational experience of youth in her community.  She's worked in science-based nature programs, wilderness/earth skills adventures, early childhood, elementary and middle school-aged children, and has been involved in Forest School Training in a variety of ways with ERAFANS.   She took some time out of her schedule to talk with me about her journey, and how the 'forest educator' field looks from her perspective, and hear about her current launch of her own Forest School near the Delaware Water Gap in Pennsylvania.  The focus, dedication, and talent that are showing up in this moment for nature education is impressive, and people like Emily give us all hope for a better world filled with nature-based learning for children everywhere. Connect with Emily: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-calhoun90/ https://www.amongtheferns.com/ https://www.facebook.com/learnamongtheferns https://www.instagram.com/learnamongtheferns Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

One thing you learn to love in Vancouver, British Columbia is the sound, the feeling and the smell of rain. You also get to enjoy the bald eagles hunting by the river, and the herons, and the towering cedar trees and big leaf maples. For Maria Jose Obando, it wasn't that hard to do. She's the founder of the Little Paws Outdoor Classroom, and her program operates among the city and metro parks of Vancouver, serving a multicultural community with bilingual forest school activities and experiences. Maria's love of language, community and early childhood education all merged into a program that is making a profound difference for her students and their families. She shares her journey and her current work integrating autistic students into her groups with the support of therapists and trained educators as well. It's always a gift to be able to listen to the sincere love and joy that so many nature educators express in these conversations, and to know that despite all of the hard work and effort, they have found joy and deep satisfaction in being outside in the rain. Connect with Little Paws: https://www.littlepawsoutdoors.com/ https://www.instagram.com/littlepawsoutdoorclassroom/ https://www.facebook.com/littlepawsoutdoorclassroom Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Some of the best educators are shaped through a lifetime of not quite 'fitting in'.  They see the world differently than most, and push back against the status quo, sometimes in creative ways.  It can take a while, honestly, and it's not always easy.  Especially when you are busy learning Mandarin in a new and radically different culture. When it comes together, though, the struggle is all worth it, even when it's born in the middle of a pandemic. We all figure it out in our own way. In this episode, Katie shares how her journey across the world reignited her passion for early childhood education.  She created Twinkle Kids Ireland based on her early love of nature and some Reggio/Montessori inspired nature principles back on the Emerald Isle, and we talk about the positive outcomes her students and families experience as well. Connect with Katie: https://www.instagram.com/twinklekidsireland/ https://www.twinklekids.ie/ https://www.instagram.com/twinklekidsireland/ https://www.facebook.com/twinklekidsireland Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode explores the work of the Natural Artists, the Crafters and the Makers, and all of those who make useful and beautiful things from nature. Sandra Kehoe weaves experiences with her students like the willows they bend, their fingers full of the rich scent of green bark and tree sap. There is a longing by many women to form something that will last, but that impulse is paired with the feeling of warmth and connection that occurs when women share their lives in these classes. Basketmaking, like so many 'nature crafts', is meditative, and at the same time, energizing, as new skills are learned and the willow itself begins to share its gifts. Sandra's journey includes the commitment to buying and creating a 'willow farm', planting thousands of willow shoots of different species, to bring this powerful art for future generations. Connect with Sandra: Website: https://www.willowbrookbasketfarm.com/ Basketmaking Resource List: https://www.willowbrookbasketfarm.com/contact Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandra.kehoe.5/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandra.kehoe.5 Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This is a first hand account of Grant Adkisson, who spent days preparing for Hurricane Helene on his farm and nature program Corylace Cove in Mars Hill, North Carolina.    This event was catastrophic to communities throughout the Carolinas and Tennessee, and Grant shares what it was like during the storm, and then discovering how widespread and life changing this event has had for thousands of people throughout this region. Grant talks about why he and his partner Sara chose to continue to offer nature education programs a week or so after the storm, when it was safe and communications and travel was possible, and how their work has adapted to support their emotional needs after experiencing the trauma that follows a natural disaster. Grant shared the following organizations that can support his surrounding communities in their time of need: This is fundraiser for ROAR (Rural Organizing and Resilience) https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=4C7WGWM48AW8A&source=url&ssrt=1727826032215 And this is the page for their mutual aid hub. They need chainsaws, splitters and logging chains, ropes and winches donated or bought. https://ruralorganizing.wordpress.com/2024/10/01/marshall-mutual-aid-hub-is-open/ Walnut Fire Dept in Marshall NC They were the only swift water rescue in the county and still going hard working out of personal funds and donations(volunteer rescue squad) https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=F9WPZZVQU34Z4&source=url Grant and Sara's Nature Program Corylace Cove website:      https://www.corylacecove.com/ Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/corylacecove/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086887186054 Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

My guest today is Sally Wren Stevens, founder and director of SOL Forest School. She is sharing her story and what soulful, whole-child nature-based education means to her. With a wide variety of training from programs and mentors around the world, Sally brings unique and meaningful insights to the current and future state of curriculum, environment, and cultural reparation in youth programming. Connect with Sally & SOL Forest School: https://www.solforestschool.com/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Ethical dilemmas happen when we are faced with situations where all of the options have conflicts with our morals or personal philosophy or beliefs.    In Forest Education, this happens around a number of issues, like employee compensation, or wildcrafting resources, or program pricing. Thirty years ago, I faced these issues alone, and did the best I could, as you will hear in this episode, but in today's digital world, we have new resources and connections and networks so we don't have to navigate them on our own.    We have new program models, other directors and leaders who can share their own choices and how they worked out, as well as best practices and more.     We face many challenges in our world today, and it's a given that as Forest Education grows, it will be filled with more and more dilemmas and philosophical crossroads.  My hope is that these challenges will lead to new and growing diversities of opportunities for parents, adults, teens and communities.   I can personally attest that it's much more enjoyable and productive to work through them with a group of experienced peers than to face them on our own. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

My guest today, Jessica Carew Kraft, left a high-powered career in technology, determined to find a better way to a thriving life in nature with her family. In pursuit of learning about "rewilding," she connected with an entire community of others who approach 21st-century problems with ancient human answers. Her new book, Why We Need to be Wild, is available now. Connect with Jessica: https://www.jessicacarewkraft.com/ https://www.instagram.com/whyweneedtobewild Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

One of the very first challenges educators have today is finding a way to connect with students, and then inspiring them to engage with the activities and experiences offered because THEY want to, not because they HAVE to.   Without that key ingredient, we can't really go anywhere.  Full stop.   If you have experienced difficulty with this, you will know exactly what a problem it is, and how excruciating it is to be in it, for everyone involved.  Sometimes, we get lucky and don't have this kind of issue in our educational journey, with supportive, excited children and attractive games that get the job done.  It can be a big shock when we show up and it DOESN'T go as planned. With student anxiety, classroom disruption and class attention spans bordering on milliseconds, it's a given that we need a variety of approaches that can give us options when we start getting resistance or blank stares. In this episode, we take a comprehensive look at one of my favorite tools in this process, and discover some of the ways we can get better immediately, to the benefit of all. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It's one thing to have a 'vision' or idea that is inspiring and exciting and full of hope and promise.  It's also a WHOLE other thing to actually bring it into the real world, grounded and fully expressed and achieving outcomes. When we take that leap into the unknown, it's scary, risky, stressful and even wonderful; a lot of intense emotions all rolled into a kaleidoscope blender that most of the time, we are not fully prepared to handle. Sometimes, we even have unexpected 'inner barriers' that show up, with hesitation, procrastination, tangible fear in sharing something from the heart, rejection sensitivity and anxiety.  These inner challenges are no joke, and they can stop our visionary work in its tracks if we don't figure out how to navigate and work around them. In this episode, we explore these issues and more, with an emphasis on solutions and strategies that can help us keep going. Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Probably the most unexpected thing that people realize while attending a nature program is how GOOD it feels to share the experience in the company of interesting, positive, and motivated participants. Yes, the skills learned are important and the crafts made are the things that entice people to come and learn, but in my estimation, the 'community' aspect of these programs is what creates a kind of magic that is very transformative. It doesn't always happen, but when it does, it makes all of the hard work worthwhile, for all of us as educators. Hosting or leading 'community building' events or experiences has many benefits for your personal and professional networking, for marketing your programs, and for meeting interesting people who can find mutually beneficial relationships in the coming months and years. Seasonal celebrations, family-friendly arts or hikes or excursions, or even just a campfire and a potluck can all be part of the process, with some being much easier to pull off than others! This episode explores some of the different types of community-building activities that work and discusses issues that are important to consider when choosing one that can get you started in your own area. I also cover some of the pitfalls and rabbit holes that can open up without warning, coming from those with 'unmet expectations' and 'unwritten agreements' that sometimes get us 'into the weeds' and stuck in the swamp. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

When we remove all of the 'non-teaching stuff' that surrounds our profession, we educators are left with an opportunity- to connect with the 'still maturing' mind of our young students.   We can have all the trappings and bells and whistles and laptops or digital projectors or classroom props and decorations, but if we don't have the ability to make a real, personal, one on one connection to these human beings, we won't really have a positive, lasting impact.  Wendolyn Bird shares from her decades of experience working with very young children, parents and also other educators, and we dive into what it takes to deeply engage and 'lead' an early childhood program in a way that is soothing, stimulating and energizing. Wendolyn discusses ways to connect with children that meet them in ways that help them grow, which is crucial to achieving the goals we have as educators or parents.   Listening to her stories makes me wish she had been MY preschool teacher, too, because she is both wise AND fun.  The bonds we make with emotionally safe adults is incredibly important and soothing to us as children.  Learning these skills is a profound game changer for us as educators and for our students, which is sorely needed in today's rapidly changing world. Connect with Wendolyn: Website:   https://wendolynbird.com/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/wendolyn.bird Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/wendolyn__bird/ Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The problem with 'awareness' is that it is 'on' even when we would prefer it wasn't.    Once we open that capacity, it helps us see the world in new ways-both the beautiful and the painful. In addition to noticing the incredible birdsong or wildflowers, we also see the trash littered across the landscape, or the ragged destruction caused by wanton development.     We know the joy of our personal refuges, and the agony at seeing them defiled by those who don't understand or know what makes them unique. It's a weight that we all carry, and one that our students will also, eventually.   In this episode, we explore this phenomenon and consider ways that can support us all. Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

This episode dives into the more 'intuitive' and 'feeling' areas of nature education, and how we can support our students/clients/children to have experiences that go beyond an intellectually based understanding of our world.  This topic is tricky to navigate, so I do my best to be fully transparent and authentic, and be validating to lots of different forms in which these experiences can be shared. There are things that happen in nature that are difficult to describe and understand, and I have had many situations where logic isn't all that helpful when it comes to integrating them into my daily understanding of the world.  I share a few of these examples, knowing that they are but the tip of the iceberg that is all of our collective stories and 'magical moments'.    Nature Spirituality is a particularly sensitive topic to many cultures around the earth, and the way we talk about them in a conscious and considerate way is vital to helping hundreds of thousands of children and adults to heal and grow and find a new path for humanity.  The human development aspects of these experiences are in some ways the key to building a new and hopeful future, especially if we can find ways that are collaborative and inclusive and compassionate. Please enjoy Episode #50. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

My guest today is Peter Kindfield of Hilltop Education and Deep Adaptation Forum. We are talking about the ways public education is broken, and why forest education is an incredible - and critical - answer for kids and our future. Connect with Peter: https://peterkindfieldphd.substack.com https://hilltopeducation.com/ https://www.deepadaptation.info/ Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The most impressive takeaway I get from every encounter I have with Tony, Molly and Trackers Earth is the fact that everyone seems so normalized and nonchalant about their accomplishments in connecting thousands of students each year with nature and imagination.  Their network extends from Portland Oregon to Seattle Washington to the north, and the California Bay Area to the south, and until recently, Denver Colorado to the east.   The programs are day camps in the summer and after school programming in the school year, with homeschooling programs, adult education and staff training, too.  Their work happens in major urban/suburban areas, where the students are living, and they've overcome many obstacles and challenges to give those students opportunities to learn, explore and grow in their own bioregion.  They have adapted, learned, pivoted and grown throughout their 20 years of effort and energy, always striving to make things easier, better and get the best results possible. It's hard to not feel inspired by their laid back approach in the face of their success, and admire their commitment to making a powerful difference for the benefit of our world.  It gives me hope, which sadly, seems in short supply these days.  Please enjoy their story and insights! Connect with Molly and Tony: Website:    https://www.trackersearth.com/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/trackersearth Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/trackersearth/ Video Mentioned in Episode:   https://youtu.be/BQHOH7V-Cm8?si=iCTy7aRxRKq08E83 Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Reuben Piet joins the Forest Educator from Cape Town as a singer, songwriter, musician and transformational nature leader.  He draws upon his ancestral roots to create powerful experiences for people of all ages, awakening an ancient remembering of who we are, and why we are here.  South Africa, like most of Africa, is a melting pot of diversity, cultures, languages and perspectives, and Reuben shares how he finds common ground and calls for a new consciousness and way of living that goes beyond our current cultural norms into something new that can heal our world. Reuben has worked in Youth and Community Development for over 20 years, and this foundation has led to his current focus in Wilderness/Mountain Guiding and Rites of Passage, where he works as a Freelance Guide and Facilitator across various regions of South Africa depending on the project and partner organization's needs. https://thunda.fund/transcendence LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/reuben-reubicon-piet-216493149/ YouTube:      https://youtu.be/JE3jrz3YCfs?si=LZ7Gk1mrgDw7TvPj Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The 'Business' side of nature education used to really stress me out. I really wished I could just do all of this good work, and provide for the family and have it not be 'weird' or awkward. I didn't like the idea of 'selling' my programs back then either, and it always felt very personal and vulnerable sharing my mission and hoping it would be accepted and valued and just 'work out'. Over the years of doing this, I learned to work through my feelings about it, because there was no other way to go. I started to understand where my discomfort originated, and where some of my thinking was clouded by family history. I had stories running through my head that were based on ideas and principles that just were not true. It wasn't easy working through those issues, dismantling them, and learning to see the world differently, but almost immediately, things began to change. I also discovered that much of the so called 'business world' is still based on principles and ideas found in the practice of hunter gatherer's daily lives. These similarities were really helpful because they showed me a different way of looking at my work that paralleled my own skills and experience. This episode focuses on marketing and messaging, which are critical skills for all forest educator program directors, founders and even instructors and educators. I've seen a lot of people and schools fade away due to lack of marketing skills or deep resistance to doing it, (among other reasons, too), and it's sobering to see good, dedicated, skilled and deeply caring people walk away from the field because they couldn't figure out how to make it all work. I am not the defining voice of all forest educators, so please don't think I am speaking with any other authority than my own. There are SO many ways to do all of this work, and I'm always learning myself, every day. If you have something that is working for you that might help other educators, send me a message and let's talk about it! Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

It feels appropriate in our 150th episode to introduce the Forest Educator Initiative.  In the past year and a half I have been discovering areas of nature education advocacy and professional support that could use some development and attention. It's never easy being a pioneer, and 'field testing' the next generation of nature based education for children and teens and adults around the world, especially when we are reliant on our program funding for our sustenance.   Program models, program design, professional networking and of course, effectiveness in outcome delivery are all areas that could use some energy and focus. It's an exciting time for nature education, and I think we are on the cusp of some major growth if we can get this current 'stage' right! Thanks for being part of this journey and doing the much needed work you're all doing every day.  I appreciate you! Forest Educator Bonus Content Page: http://foresteducator.com/bonuscontent Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

If there is one area in nature that many people 'fear to tread', it's wetlands, bogs and swamps. These areas are difficult to traverse, especially if you are afraid to get dirty.  There are mosquitoes.  There are snapping turtles.  Water snakes slither under the banks, and great blue herons stalk frogs along the lily pads.  There is often a rich, moist smell of decaying leaves, tree bark and plants that a lot of people find objectionable. I get it.  We're used to clean environments, fabric softener scented clothing and staying dry in today's world.  That's understandable and it makes sense. These estuaries, marshes and beaver flooded woods are filled with incredible wildlife, plants that amaze.  They are incredible learning environments that I've come to love.  These are some of my adventures amongst the cattails, reeds and sawgrass.   Join the Forest Educator Patreon! https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcast Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

Jonny Walker embraces the creativity of writing and poetry retreats outdoors, and helping teachers with outdoor education development, in his organization Otherwise Education. In this episode we talk about the work he's doing, the problems facing traditional educators today, trust and risk aversion when working with children, and the power of the forest when it comes to creativity and imagination. Connect with Jonny and Otherwise Education: https://www.otherwiseeducation.com/ https://www.instagram.com/otherwiseedu/?hl=en Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra

The transition from childhood to young adulthood is full of intense change and growth in a relatively short period of time.  It can be rough for parents as well, and for eons, earth based cultures had cultural rituals and customs that supported everyone through this initiation.  However, in today's rapidly changing world, those customs have been largely lost in that upheaval, and we are left on our own to figure it out. Fortunately, the natural world offers help, (again), that are substantial benefits for youth and their families, and our 'forest educator programs' are in a perfect position to deliver these gifts.  This episode takes a deep dive into this aspect of Forest Education, drawing on over 35 years of my time leading programs, summer camps, workshops & retreats. If you work with this age group, or have children or grandchildren who are, my hope is that you will discover some insights and new ways of supporting an older boy or girl who is stepping into a larger world. Connect with Ricardo: https://www.foresteducator.com/ https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/ https://www.hawkcircle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolverineway/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierra