Shows
Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based Education(REPLAY) Forest Educator Spotlight: Doing Hard Things with Ricardo SierraAn 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...2025-01-0957 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe First Forest School in Ecuador, South America with Carol SanchezIt'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 Educa...2024-05-1656 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Desert SolitaireI've always been drawn to areas that are desolate, open and devoid of human presence, and this episode explores the power of our desert landscapes through my own stories and experiences. Deserts are far more than sand and cactus, and most people speed through them as fast as humanly possible. There are gifts to be found if we learn how to approach these unique places in ways that change us inside forever.Join the Forest Educator Patreon!https://patreon.com/ForestEducatorPodcastConnect with Ricardo:https://www.forestedu...2024-05-1351 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Working with Students with Special NeedsAccording 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 i...2024-05-0653 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Secrets of Organic Chemistry in Forest Education with Peter KindfieldI am pretty sure I would have enjoyed my high school chemistry classes more if they had been taught by my guest Peter Kindfield, who shares his methodology and approach in outdoor learning. His experiences demonstrate again how important our work is, for all of us in this field, and to discuss these topics, because I believe we are piloting the future models of early childhood, elementary and middle school education.It's a natural 'next step' to give ourselves opportunities to go deeper into our observations of nature and team building, communication and the sc...2024-05-021h 19Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Getting Our Students 'On the Bus' with Ricardo SierraOne 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 ki...2024-04-2949 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationFinding Support for Forest School Leaders with Asa Hardy-BrownlieMany Forest School Leaders begin their educational nature journey in the fields of Bushcraft, and ancestral skills. Some come from a background in public education, while others get their start in Special Education. Others still come from an occupational therapy or mental health background. All seem to respond to the needs of children, and a desire to help them grow and thrive.Most of us don't really want to 'start a business' with all that it entails, but we usually don't have a choice. Someone has to do it, and figure it out, and find ways...2024-04-251h 28Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Shining Daylight into the Grey Areas and Unwritten ContractsIn 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 creat...2024-04-2254 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Last Person Around the Campfire - with Sky OtterIt's not uncommon at the end of a meaningful nature program to see one person who is still sitting at the campfire, reluctant to leave. The impact to our participant's lives can be significant, and it's difficult for some to return to their everyday lives, which can be lonely or filled with unsatisfying relationships. Nature work often intersects with community building, personal growth, health and even healing mental and emotional trauma, which, for Forest Educators, means we usually end up wearing many hats. My conversation with today's guest, Sky Otter, dives into this important topic, and...2024-04-181h 10Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Staff Training for Nature ProgramsThe field of nature education is incredibly diverse, and this can make designing good staff training programs difficult, especially for new program directors or leaders.What are some of the problems that come up when we try to deliver and download a lot of information to people in a short period of time? How do we emphasize important topics and make them 'sticky' so they will be clear if needed? How do we evaluate our current staff training and know if they are working well, or could use improvement?This...2024-04-1548 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationTeacher, Mentor, Author, Advocate: The Natural Evolution of Amy ButlerOne 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 skil...2024-04-111h 03Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Rites of Passage Part Three with Ricardo SierraIn 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 'skil...2024-04-081h 13Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationStudent Driven Assessment in Inner City Nature Education with Chantel ZimmermanWhen 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.2024-04-0449 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Rites of Passage Part TwoWe'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.2024-04-0149 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationEmotional Learning and Behavior Support begins with Educator Consistency- with Meagan DuncanThere 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 percent...2024-03-281h 02Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Power of Initiation and Rites of Passage Part OneThere are few things that are more universally shared by humanity than comparative mythology and the 'initiatory experience'. In this episode, we explore the incredible power that Initiations have in our individual and collective psyches, and how we can use this understanding to support our students in their learning and development.We also explore the 'Rite of Passage' ceremonies and how they served multiple functions in a small village or community for tens of thousands of years. Bringing this understanding and inner longing to our consciousness is a profound and effective tool that nature educa...2024-03-2552 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Education & Innovation in a Man-Made World with Jael NouhetHow 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...2024-03-211h 02Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Finding Your Lane as a Forest EducatorThe 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!http...2024-03-1838 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Learning in the Los Angeles Basin- with Madlen SarkisyanDeep in the concrete jungle of spanish style homes, freeways, urban sprawl and mini-malls, there are naturalists who know the canyons, coastal foothills and estuaries hidden throughout the city. It's here among the live oaks and agave that children learn about acorns, lizards, animal tracks, and other aspects of California wildlife. I had all kinds of flashbacks to my own childhood throughout this conversation with Madlen Sarkisyan, who co-founded The Children's Forest School based in this diverse area in Southern California. Our conversation ranges from mountain lions, poison oak, homeschooli...2024-03-141h 03Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Moving the Needle-Equity, Education & Changing the SystemThis 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...2024-03-111h 08Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Unbeatable Combination of Occupational Therapy and Forest Education with Marika Austin and Angela RosenbergYou 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.2024-03-071h 11Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight - The Beneficial Partnership of Nature and Language Arts with Jonny WalkerThis 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...2024-03-041h 06Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationLiving Your Values, Building Community with Dariya Quenniville and Jefferie ConzIt'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 ance...2024-02-291h 04Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Necessity of AdversityThis 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 of...2024-02-261h 10Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationMulticultural Adventures in the Canadian Rainforest with Maria Jose ObandoOne 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...2024-02-2254 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Doing Hard Things with Ricardo SierraAn 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...2024-02-1957 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationCollisions of Earth & Sky: Seeking Truth through Poetry & Nature with Heidi BarrThe 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 ne...2024-02-1558 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Navigating the For-Profit/Non-Profit DecisionThere comes a point in most nature education programs' evolution when we have to decide on what 'legal entity' or structure we are going to use to do business in our community. Will we be a Sole Proprietor, in a for-profit model, or maybe a Partnership or LLC? Or do we go in the Nonprofit Organization direction, with all of its complexities and possible advantages?This episode dives into this topic and explores the advantages to both legal structures, as well as their challenges, too! Please note that this episode...2024-02-1252 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationDynamic, Community Based Bush Kindy in Australia: A MobileForest Schooling Model with Areta FarranceOne of the most remarkable qualities I have seen in most 'Forest Educator' leaders I've met through this podcast is their ability and willingness to adapt, change and respond to the needs of the children, families and communities when needed. Areta Farrance is an incredible leader who is doing this in a big way, and seeing positive outcomes and results. We talk about her work building a community and extended family model of nature education, (commonly known in Australia as 'bush kindy'). Living in communities with an incredible diversity of languag...2024-02-0854 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Nature Job Strategies for Employers & EducatorsIf 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, av...2024-02-0558 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationCreating a Forest School as a Village woven with Healing and Support with Danielle Zola LMSW, M.S.EdMy 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 commu...2024-02-011h 03Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight - Lessons From The North WindThe 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 Edu...2024-01-291h 00Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationPublic Schools & Nature Program Leverage Points- with April Zajko, M.EdFor most nature educators, getting into a public school can be daunting and even a little intimidating. The desire to offer forest education to ALL children is balanced against the number of hoops we have to jump through to make it happen. Enter April Zajko, who is a nature preschool teacher with a keen understanding of how to find ways to collaborate with schools and organizations in a variety of settings. She's a 'Jill of All Trades', when it comes to Forest Education. She presents...2024-01-251h 18Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Ethical Dilemmas in Forest EducationEthical 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 l...2024-01-2253 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationChoosing Wholistic Nature over Corporate Culture - with Rimi ChakrabortyWhen 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 na...2024-01-181h 13Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Swamp StoriesIf 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 unders...2024-01-1550 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Power of Making Baskets by Hand in an Automated World- with Sandra KehoeThis 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...2024-01-1156 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Five Nature Program Marketing Mistakes (and how to fix them!)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...2024-01-0848 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationLeadership, Brotherhood & Inclusion in the Outdoors: Mentoring BIPOC Young Men with Manny AlmonteThe loneliness and struggle that young men experience, especially young men of color, is one that happens silently, almost invisibly every day. The opportunity to connect with older men and new friends and peers in the wild is literally life changing for them, and for the leaders and guides as well.This episode shares the extraordinary journey that Manny discovered through finding his own healing in a circle of peers in Brooklyn. When men of color share their gifts and strategies for resilience with each other, good things happen and Manny shares how those prof...2024-01-041h 05Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Building Community around Forest EducationProbably 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....2024-01-011h 04Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Challenges and Joys of Forest Schooling in Southeast Asia with Sharon CortezThe 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 th...2023-12-2848 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Entering the WildDuring the early years of my wilderness skills training and practice, I began to notice something interesting when I would venture out into the forest. I spent a lot of time in nature to gather materials for making tools and crafts, or foraging for wild foods, and it seemed like I could do these things in two different ways. One was going in when I was hurried, distracted or very 'goal oriented'. At these times, the agenda was all about ME. I needed some willow to make a pair of tongs or a basket. I needed acorns for a...2023-12-2553 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Equitable Power of Forest Education in the Public Sector with David AlexanderDavid 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...2023-12-2141 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Forest Educator Spotlight: Cold TrainingFear 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.2023-12-181h 02Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationEpisode 55 - Going Off-Grid & Into the Canadian Wild with Kielyn Marrone of Lure of the NorthThere's an almost mystical longing for the wild expanse that stretches north into the Arctic, with small birch trees, firs and spruces, mazes of unnamed rivers and lakes, and a landscape almost devoid of people. My thirst for that wild probably began with Jack London, Call of the Wild, White Fang and To Build A Fire, and then deepened with writings of Farley Mowat and the film Never Cry Wolf. Wherever it comes from, I just know that my imagination burns brightly when I see those places in my mind or think of those who call it home2023-12-1447 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Forest Educator Spotlight: Seven Things I Wish I'd Known Before Starting Hawk CircleI started my Hawk Circle Wilderness Camp in the summer of 1989, but it had been a dream of mine for about four years earlier. It was glorious, and it was amazing. It was also a process of trial and error, and I made a lot of mistakes, mostly minor, but still, mistakes all the same. Despite being a relatively quick learner, it still took years to really hone the 'recipe' and build something that created consistent results. Once the program was in a good place, there were hundreds of different...2023-12-1151 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationConnecting to Nature Through Plants, Medicine & Herbal First Aid with Sam CoffmanOne of the things I love most about this podcast is getting to have conversations with amazing people who love to dive deeply into their chosen field of study. Some of these individuals do work that greatly improves the entire field of study, like Dr. Kersey Lawrence with Tracking, or Mark Elbroch and Sam Thayer with Field Guides. These contributions have far reaching consequences that help us all to grow and learn and 'do better'.In this interview, Sam Coffman shares his journey with plants & gardening in childhood with his parents and native peoples, to be...2023-12-071h 03Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Problem with Intangible ResultsIf you've ever tried to talk about the meaning and value of an experience in nature with someone who's never experienced something similar, it can feel like talking to a brick wall. Our insights, and sense of wonder, or magic can sound ridiculous when spoken out loud. It can be painful when something we share has so much value to US, but completely is misunderstood by our listeners.The problem isn't with us, or with everyone else, but it's built into the language of our culture, and with the very...2023-12-041h 04Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Long and Winding Road from China to Ireland with Katie FuSome 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....2023-11-3058 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Exploring the Role of Spirituality in Forest EducationThis 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...2023-11-2758 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationHimalayan Treks, Transformation and Ethical Business Philosophy with Lakshmi Selvakumaran of IndiaHikes.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 th...2023-11-2446 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Forest Educator Spotlight: How To Understand The Value of Our ProgramsWe'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-5980931/2023-11-201h 02Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Forest Education with Todd DavisMy guest today is Todd Davis, a professor at the Delta State University down in the Mississippi Delta region. As an educator in an area with a very split population when it comes to racial and economic demographics, diversity, equity, and inclusion are topics that are at the forefront of Todd's work. In this episode, we are talking about cultural heritage and the outdoors, diversity and representation in outdoor recreation marketing, race inequality and allyship in a small Mississippi community, mental wellness, and so much more. Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator...2023-11-161h 02Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Big Questions Facing Forest EducationThe 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...2023-11-1329 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Amazonian Rainforest Adventures of Joe Flowers: Creating life changing experiences in the Jungles of South AmericaThere are a lot of different and unique ways to enter the field of nature education, and you'd think that designing knives wouldn't be one of them. But that's exactly the way Joe discovered a passion for wilderness, bushcraft and native culture. In this episode, we discuss the safety issues that come along with the process of leading jungle experiences, from poison dart frogs to piranhas and more. He shares how people respond to spending time in this diverse and rich ecosystem, learning not just from Joe but also the native peoples of that region...2023-11-0952 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Coming of Age in the WildernessThe 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...2023-11-0652 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationAnswering the Call: The Purposefully Diverse Forest Journey of a Nature Educator with Emily WoodmanseeEmily 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...2023-11-0249 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Natural SheltersI don't think it would be a stretch to say that for children, building forts and shelters is a universal urge. When given some time to explore and a bunch of different materials like sticks, logs, stones, tarps or cardboard, most kids will figure out how to build something! It might be more symbolic, or it could be an actual working shelter, but the effort is there!This episode is all about shelters I've made and slept in, like debris huts, stone & log hogans, thatch huts and stacked debris wall shelters. I also share about t...2023-10-3043 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationFinding Nature in Uncertain Times, with field biologist, author and photo-journalist Maddalena BearziWhat 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...2023-10-2650 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Becoming NocturnalThere 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...2023-10-2354 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationDeep Earth Initiations and Nature-Based Parenthood with Trista HaggertyToday'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 f...2023-10-1958 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Working with Middle SchoolersSome of my favorite ages to work with are middle schoolers, anywhere from 10-14 years old. Some may say those ages are some of the most challenging, but I really like that age group for so many reasons. I love to help them find their passion and excitement, and to watch them build an inner foundation for themselves and a personal belief that they know who they are, and begin to believe that they can do hard things. In this episode, I'm exploring the different developmental ages and stages during this period of kids' lives and some of my...2023-10-1636 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationOutdoor Programming Advocacy and Influence with Jeff BaierleinIn 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...2023-10-1245 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Bonding ParadoxThe first rule about 'bonding' is like Fight Club:"Never talk about Bonding."At least to your students. (Because it's awkward and weird.)But honestly, so many of the benefits of nature-based education present in the same exact way - basically invisible to most people who aren't paying close attention.This episode explores ideas around mentoring, teaching, bonding, relationships, and even some staff management/training/hiring concepts too.We get into the nuances of...2023-10-0954 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationGrowing Caring, Resilient, Soulful Future Stewards with Sally Wren Stevens of SOL Forest SchoolMy 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/2023-10-0550 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Entrepreneur Part IIThe '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...2023-10-0249 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationNature-Based Occupational Therapy and the Importance of Outdoor Play with Angela HanscomIn today's episode, my guest Angela Hanscom and I discuss all kinds of things related to developing skills through outdoor play, including:
The impact on childhood development when kids do not get enough outdoor play
How Angela built her nature-based occupational therapy business
Prioritizing play in kindergarten and early childhood
Play-based learning methods
Integrating nature-based learning into schools
The impacts and benefits of TimberNook's program on teacher satisfaction and student well-being
and so much more!
Angela Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of TimberNook–an award-winning nature-based program that has gained in...2023-09-2849 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Many Gifts of RainDealing 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...2023-09-2559 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Legacy and Lessons of Ancestral Wilderness Skills with Nate SummersI'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/primalnateSupport his new Kickstarter campaign: 2023-09-211h 09Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Forest Educator Spotlight: The Contradictory Nuances of Nature AwarenessIt 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 trappe...2023-09-1853 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationWellness, Reflection, and Masculinity in Wilderness with Sam GravestockMy guest today is Sam Gravestock of The Forest Path. Sam leads men's retreats and guided therapeutic wilderness programs. He prioritizes accessibility and support when it comes to learning disabilities, behavioral mentoring, youth programs, individual validation and wellness, and reflecting and exploring masculinity.Connect with Sam:https://www.theforestpath.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/man_of_tanithhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076003952570Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https...2023-09-141h 03Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Forest EntrepreneurThis Forest Educator spotlight is an introduction to entrepreneurship for the Forest Educator. If you are planning on generating revenue by providing programs or resources related to Forest Education, then you are considering entrepreneurship. Being great at Forest Education and being great at Entrepreneurship are not synonymous. In this episode, I'm sharing some of the lessons I've learned from 35+ years of forest entrepreneurship.Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https://www.hawkcircle.com/Linkedin: https://www...2023-09-1156 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Wisdom in Listening with Dan Gardoqui of Lead with NatureToday's guest is Dan Gardoqui, a nature consultant, trainer, and guide. Dan's work, Lead with Nature, is rooted in the patterns and processes of nature. He's also a certified wildlife tracker and a bird language expert. In addition to talking about tracking and bird language, in this interview, we talked about the diversity of approaches, inspiring young people, the importance of listening, integrating wisdom into your business, and so much more.Connect with Dan: https://www.leadwithnature.com/https://www.instagram.com/leadwithnatureConnect with...2023-09-071h 09Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Wilderness Survival SkillsOn this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, we're talking about wilderness survival skills, and why they're important, and why they're an incredible resource for forest educators.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/RicardohawkSierra2023-09-0452 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationChanging Education from the Inside with International Wildlife Tracker and Environmental Educator Sandy ReedSandy 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...2023-08-311h 01Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Forest Educator's Secret SauceToday'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/RicardohawkSierra2023-08-2844 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationRewilding: Why We Need to be Wild with Jessica Carew KraftMy 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/whyweneedtobewildConnect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https...2023-08-2445 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Gift of CampfiresThis 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.C...2023-08-2140 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationNature-Infused Coaching for Parents & Teachers with Wendolyn BirdIn this interview, I'm joined by Wendolyn Bird to talk about Early Childhood nature education and outreach. Wendolyn is a coach for parents and teachers. She draws from mindfulness practices, developmental and child psychology, Earth-based Wisdoms, and spirituality in order to help parents and teachers build more fulfilling connections to themselves, their children, and their students for lasting and beneficial change.Connect with Wendolyn: https://wendolynbird.com/https://www.instagram.com/wendolyn__bird/https://www.facebook.com/wendolynbirdcoachingConnect with Ricardo:...2023-08-1757 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Barriers to Nature EducationAs forest educators, there are several barriers we come up against with regard to nature education. In this week's forest educator spotlight episode, I'm talking about some of these obstacles, including the classic education and academic structure and curriculum, lack of parent and teacher experience with nature education, economic and time factors, and so much more. I'm also sharing some tips for advocating for better access to nature, the complications of cultural barriers and equity, and the sustainability of the environmental education model.Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/...2023-08-1441 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationPublic Education is Broken with Peter KindfieldMy 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.comhttps://hilltopeducation.com/https://www.deepadaptation.info/Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https://www.hawkcircle.com/Linkedin: ...2023-08-101h 04Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Art of TrackingIn 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/RicardohawkSierra2023-08-0748 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationTracking and International Instruction with Kyt Lyn WalkenToday's guest, Kyt Lyn Walken, is an international mantracking expert and instructor. In this episode, she shares some stories and background about her career as an instructor, as well as some tips and stories about the importance of tracking skills.Connect with Kyt:https://www.instagram.com/kytlynwalken/?hl=enhttps://thewayoftracking.com/Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https://www.hawkcircle.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin...2023-08-031h 11Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Maverick & The Collaborator MindsetThis week's Forest Educator Spotlight is about two important mindsets and perspectives when it comes to Forest Education. In any group program, the ego is going to show up, and potentially get in the way. In this episode, I'm explaining the Maverick and the Collaborator Mindsets and why it's so important to be collaborative.Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https://www.hawkcircle.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/...2023-07-3150 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationRaising Children in the Open Air with Linda McGurkToday 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...2023-07-271h 00Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Navigating Boundaries - Behaviors and DisciplineThis Forest Educator Spotlight is all about that tricky subject of navigating boundaries when it comes to managing behavior and discipline. These are serious issues when working with students.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/RicardohawkSierra2023-07-2450 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationConnection, Creativity, and Teaching Teachers with Jonny Walker of Otherwise EducationJonny 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=enConnect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator...2023-07-201h 00Forest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: After School ProgramsThis 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...2023-07-1738 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationConnecting Urban Children with the Natural World with Aurélia Cheuvreul-GaudIn 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://ww...2023-07-1339 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: The Challenges of Ethical GatheringIn this week's Forest Educator Spotlight, I'm talking about the challenges of ethical gathering. Learn how to protect your reputation, build your resource network and community, and honor the environment in today's episode.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/RicardohawkSierra2023-07-1026 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest School as Alternative Education with Erica Hermsen from Everwild Forest SchoolMy 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, Eric...2023-07-0647 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Mastering the Skills Behind the SkillsAs forest educators, it's important that we don't just teach skills: but we really teach the skills behind the skills. In today's world of modern conveniences, the average kid is not witnessing how things happen in the world around them, or the skills it takes to make things happen, as they grow up. Forest education doesn't just teach people wilderness and earth skills, but it teaches us how to think and adapt. In this Forest Educator Spotlight episode, I'm talking all about the skills behind the skills and sharing lots of stories about this practice in action.2023-07-0344 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationWilderness Education in a Modern World with Guest Erik Rasmussen (Part 2)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/...2023-06-2950 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: My Best Tips for Staff Hiring & TrainingIn 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/...2023-06-2643 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationWilderness Education in a Modern World with Guest Erik Rasmussen (Part 1)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...2023-06-2249 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationForest Educator Spotlight: Ten Things I Always Carry on a Forest AdventureIn 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/...2023-06-1928 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationThe Global Mental Health Crisis for Kids and Adults and Why Forest Education Programs are Important with Guest Jude VintonI'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...2023-06-1544 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationHow Forest Education Can Create Human and Environmental Impact (Ricardo's Story)This episode is all about my story: my first wilderness memories, the childhood stories that inspired my sense of adventure, where my wilderness career began, and how I grew Hawk Circle over the past 35 years. Plus, I'm sharing some insights into The Forest Educator Initiative and why the work we're doing in this community is so important in 2023.Connect with Ricardo:https://www.foresteducator.com/https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/https://www.hawkcircle.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-sierra-5980931/2023-06-1540 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationWhat is a Forest Educator?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:2023-06-1524 minForest Educator with Ricardo Sierra | A Podcast for Revolutionary Conversations about Nature-Based EducationComing Soon: The Forest Educator with Ricardo SierraIntroducing The Forest Educator podcast hosted by Ricardo Sierra. Join Ricardo as he engages in enlightening conversations with educators from across the globe who are revolutionizing nature-based education. Drawing on his 35 years of experience in wilderness education, Ricardo shares practical insights, tools, and best practices to inspire and support forest educators worldwide. Tune in twice a week for interviews with passionate educators and skill spotlights that delve into the challenges and triumphs of the field. The Forest Educator Podcast launches on June 15 with three initial episodes, so grab your favorite beverage and get ready to be inspired. Download an...2023-06-0705 min