In this episode of the Yes We Rise podcast, Christine Gyovai interviews Amber Ellis, who shares her journey from a rural upbringing in Virginia to her impactful work with the James River Association and her personal project, Find Your Nature. Amber discusses her deep connection to nature, the role of art in enhancing that connection, and the importance of community engagement in environmental restoration. She emphasizes the need for intentional self-care practices, the significance of listening to community needs, and the value of building trust in collaborative efforts. The conversation also touches on the importance of joy, movement, and personal values in both professional and personal life.
Amber Ellis grew up in Powhatan County, Virginia. The backyard of her family home was filled with big trees and a tiny stream that she enjoyed exploring. Amber currently lives in the City of Richmond, Virginia. Amber is the Restoration Director at the James River Association, where she leads collaborative initiatives and builds relationships to restore streamside forests across the James River watershed, mostly through her role as convener for the Upper & Middle James Riparian Consortium and the James River Buffer Program. Amber is also the founder of Find Your Nature, an offering and exploration that grew from her heart. Over 15+ years working in the conservation world, Amber was called to create a space for people to center, create, and connect, so that people can show up as their best selves to care for the Earth together. Amber believes what the world needs most right now is the space to hear our own voice, nurture our relationship with the natural world, and authentically connect with others. Amber holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Virginia Tech, Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional Level 1 and Buffers Certificate, Level II certificate in Ecotherapy through The EarthBody Institute, certificate in Mental Health First Aid and First Aid/CPR, and am a Professional Landscape Architect in Virginia.
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Chapters 00:00 -- Introduction to Amber Ellis and Her Journey
02:43 — Growing Up in Nature: Early Influences
05:09 — Connection to Nature: Art and Personal Practices
07:34 — Finding Home in Nature: A Deeper Relationship
09:54 — Seasonal Soul Sessions: Intentional Practices for Wellbeing
12:29 — Values and Their Role in Personal and Professional Life
14:56 — Community Engagement and Restoration Work
19:57 — Listening and Engaging with the Environment
21:48 -- Building Systems for Long-Term Success
23:46 — Shifts in Community Collaboration
24:34 — Fostering Engagement and Relationships
25:33 — Adapting to Environmental Changes
27:57 — Vision for Future Restoration Efforts
30:38 — Tending Relationships Like Trees
31:35 — Finding Joy in Movement and Nature
34:00 — Lessons Learned in Community Engagement
36:59 — Exploring New Ventures and Future Directions
