Shows
Let’s Talk OutdoorsCreating Outside: Art, Play and Learning with Merrissa KarmarkIn this episode of Let’s Talk Outdoors, Leah and Justine chat with Merrissa Karmark, an outdoor education, art, and English teacher at Englefeld School. Merrissa shares her journey into outdoor learning, and how outdoor spaces can meaningfully support the curriculum.
Tune in for practical tips, inspiration, and real talk about the challenges and rewards of teaching outside the classroom.
Prairie River Gardens
One School One Farm Nature Journaling resource - Coming Soon!
Royal SK Museum native plant sale
This episode is proudly sponsored by the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA). Thank you for su...2025-06-1943 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsHolistic Outdoor Learning with Denise Heppner and Tirzah ReilkoffIn this episode of Let’s Talk Outdoors, Leah and Justine are joined by Denise Heppner and Tirzah Reilkoff to explore what outdoor learning looks like in practice—both in early years and through a professional development lens.
Denise is an Associate Director of Professional Learning with the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. With over 20 years of experience in education, she’s taught in both public and private K-12 systems, and at the university level in Special Education and Indigenous Education.
Tirzah teaches Kindergarten and Grade 1 in rural Saskatchewan, where she facilitates daily, holistic outdoor learning. Her approach...2025-06-1951 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsJune is Recreation and Parks Month with Carolyn Bates-HardyCarolyn Bates-Hardy (she/her) is a neuroqueer, non-binary transgender woman living in the place traditionally known as oskana kâ-asastêki (Regina, SK) in Treaty 4 territory and on the Homeland of the Métis. She is a Communications Consultant with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association, and has more than 14 years' experience in non-profit communications and public relations. Carolyn holds a BA in English (High Hons.) from the University of Regina, and a Certificate in Public Relations from the University of Regina, Centre for Continuing Education. When she is not advocating for a better quality of life through recreation and parks...2025-05-2239 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsJacqui Sneazwell and why Playing in Dirt Builds GritJustine talks with Jacqui Sneazwell, a BC-based educator with a passion for outdoor play and learning. With experience as a kindergarten principal on North Vancouver Island, Jacqui now explores nature with her students in Chilliwack. In her workshop Playing in Dirt Builds Grit, she shares why play matters at every age and how it can build curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to nature.
2025-04-2432 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsNurturing Curiosity Through Outdoor Learning with Shelley BettkerShelley Bettker is an outdoor play expert, advocate for child-led learning, and founder of Explorer’s Forest School and TimberNook Saskatoon. She works with children aged 1 to 13 on a prairie oasis east of Saskatoon, fostering curiosity and wonder through hands-on, nature-based experiences. Often found alongside children in the dirt and trees, Shelley fosters curiosity and a deep sense of wonder. Shelley also runs a parented program, guiding caregivers to embrace the benefits of outdoor play. She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan and is a certified Early Childhood Educator Level 2. She completed the Forest & Nature School...2025-03-2638 min
The Outdoor Learning PodcastGet Outside 101 Conference PromoSend us a text! (We can't reply, so include your contact info if you want us to get back to you.)Get Outside 101 ConferenceSaturday, October 5University of Saskatchewan in the Education BuildingHead over to https://saskoutdoors.org/event/get-outside-101-saskatoon/ to register for this awesome Outdoor Learning experience! Access our research, project ideas and more at:https://engagedstudent.weebly.com/outdoor-learning.html2024-09-1302 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsConnecting with Plant Medicine with Kelsie LorenzLeah and Derek talk with Kelsie Lorenz about how we can build a connection with plants, their lessons, and shares some ideas for including them in out daily life. She also builds shares about importance of plant connection, using nature connection with students, and shares stories of her experiences with plants and culture.
Links to Instagram profiles that Kelsie references:
https://www.instagram.com/xalishmedicines/
https://www.instagram.com/themedicinecircle
https://www.instagram.com/herbalacademy/
https://www.instagram.com/shoporganicolivia
https://www.instagram.com/wildrosecollege
h...2024-06-2541 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsAlways Another River with Daryl SexsmithLeah and Derek sit down with Daryl Sexsmith to talk canoeing. Daryl shares stories from his book, Always Another River.
Always Another River
Star Phoenix - Paddler Daryl Sexsmith tells Saskatchewan stories from a canoe's-eye view
2024-06-131h 00
Let’s Talk OutdoorsGardening and Outdoor Learning with Maxine PanchukJoin Leah and Derek as they sit down with Maxine Panchuk as she discusses teaching kindergarten, gardening and outdoor learning! Maxine in an avid gardener and teaches kindergarten at Buena Vista outdoor school in Saskatoon.
First Book Canada Marketplace
Saskatoon Horticultural Society
Saskatoon Compost Coaches
Connect on Instagram
2024-05-0233 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsBiodiversity and Birding with Greg FentyJoin Derek and Leah as they talk with Greg Fenty about his 30+ years of experience working with various species of birds, bird research and bird banding in Saskatchewan. Greg also discusses the Bluebird Trail and his passion for Saskatoon's Young Naturalists Program.
Saskatoon Young Naturalists Program
Bluebird Trail
2024-04-1147 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsHistoric Walks with Hugh & AditiJoin Derek & Leah as they connect with Hugh Henry and Aditi Garg. Hugh and Aditi talk about Historic Walks and The Saskatchewan History and Folklore Society. They discuss the connections between these walks and education and potential collaborative efforts.
Resources
somethinggrand.ca
Geography of Blood - Candace Savage
The Saskatchewan History and Folklore Society
Treaty Land Sharing Network
Mary Smilie Podcast Episode
Network in Canadian History and Environment
Jane's Walks
2024-03-0950 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsPermaculture & Youth Activism with Sophia YoungJoin Derek & Leah as they connect with Sophia Young. Sophia is the 2023 recipient of the SaskOutdoors Cydney Weir Youth Award. Listen in to hear about her remarkable contributions to her community.
Due to her passion for sustainability, equity, and the conservation of ecosystems, Sophia has founded and chaired the Miller4Nature Permaculture Club, Sophia is a community builder, acting as a youth representative on the City of Regina Community Advisory Group. Sophia is now pursuing a career in environmental engineering to create sustainable and accessible futures.
2024-02-2341 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsClimate Education with Ben OakenJoin Leah and Mike as they speak with Ben Oaken about Climate Education. Ben explores the reasons why some educators may hesitate to incorporate climate education into their teaching and offers strategies to overcome these obstacles. Climate Education is important in Saskatchewan - listen in to find out why!
EcoSchools Canada
EcoSchools How-to Webinar
SaskOutdoors Climate Action Education
The Weather Makers book - Tim Flannery
This Changes Everything book - Naomi Klein
Solutions Board Game from the Outdoor Learning Store
2024-02-0832 min
The PHE Canada PodcastExploring the Nature of Outdoor PlayIn this episode of 'The PHE Canada Podcast,' we dive headfirst into the enchanting world of outdoor play, exploring its transformative impact on education with guests Dr. Louise de Lannoy and Dr. Maeghan James. Join us as we unlock the secrets to creating dynamic learning experiences beyond the classroom walls. Discover how outdoor play not only enhances physical well-being but also cultivates creativity, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning.Our expert guests share practical tips for integrating outdoor play into your teaching toolkit, making every lesson an adventure. From nature-inspired activities to harnessing...2024-01-2536 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsInclusive Outdoor Play with Maeghan JamesJoin Leah, Justine, and Maeghan James as they delve into the topic of Inclusive Outdoor Play. Maeghan shares insights on how educators can craft inclusive and high-quality outdoor experiences for every child, addressing prevalent barriers to inclusive outdoor play. She emphasizes the importance of collaborating with a child's family or caregivers to facilitate enriching outdoor experiences. Additionally, Maeghan encourages educators to cultivate new, inclusive habits, integrating inclusive play into the classroom environment.
Learn more about Maeghan.
Resources
PLaTO-Net - Play, Learn and Teach Outdoors Network
Dr. Louise de Lannoy speaks about O...2024-01-1756 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsWhitney Blaisdell and the Importance of PlayJoin Mike & Leah as they chat with Whitney Blaisdell about her non-profit, Play YQR. Whitney discusses how to prioritize and increase access to play for all ages. Listen in as Whitney talks about the importance of play!
For more information on Whitney, visit her University of Regina Student Spotlight.
Checkout Megan Zeni with Room to Play on Instagram for more outdoor play content.
2023-05-3146 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsMegan Gurski & Teaching OutdoorsJoin Mike & Leah as they chat with Megan Gurski, SaskOutdoors' former Outdoor Play Coordinator, teacher, and owner/operator of NW25 Outdoor Learning Co. Teachable moments outdoors, risks and hazards, and barriers to taking students outdoors are only a few of the topics touched on during their conversation.
2023-04-1135 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsKyle Harrison & His #ExploreSask Parks Road TripJoin Mike & Leah as they chat with Kyle Harrison about winning the 2021 #ExploreSask Parks Road Trip. Be inspired by Kyle's storytelling; his stories may help you choose where to go camping and exploring in Saskatchewan throughout the year!
2023-04-0437 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsLouise de Lannoy & Outdoor PlayJoin SaskOutdoors as they chat with Louise de Lannoy about Outdoor Play in Canada.
Louise continued to ponder our conversation after recording and wanted to add to her response to "What one thing would you change about the world?": I think what really matters is making the outdoors the easy choice. Just like placing stairs in a more convenient location than the elevator: make the outdoors the easy, more convenient choice. This is something we need to figure out to actually affect change.
2023-02-0738 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsConnection to the Land, Treaty Rights and Reconciliation with David PrattLeah and Mike connect with David Pratt to chat about Indigenous connection to land, treaty rights, and reconciliation. David is the first Vice-Chief of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN).
2023-01-2441 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsThe Depave Paradise Project with Kristine LevesqueKristine Levesque joins Mike and Leah to discuss her involvement with the DePave Paradise Project. Kristine shares about a successful project at Walter Murray Collegiate in Saskatoon where they transformed a run-down tennis court into a space for outdoor learning and food education.
2023-01-1020 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsFinding Moments Outdoors with Skyler HauganJoin Mike and Leah as they chat with Skyler Haugan about respect, time, and adventures. Skyler runs an organization called The Moment Outdoors which focusses on encouraging people to put down their digital devices and explore Saskatchewan's landscape.
2022-12-2739 min
School InterruptedCo-Creating Nature Experiences from Parent Funds of Knowledge“It takes a village to raise a child” - ProverbWhat possibilities await when we tap into one of our greatest resources and engage in meaningful conversations? Join host, Haylee Olver, and parent guest, Lance Zacharias, in a meaningful conversation about nature and learning. Haylee Olver, BEd & MEd, is an early years teacher with Prairie Spirit School Division. Parent guest, Lance Zacharias, CPA, CMA, is a father of four, CFO of Zak’s Home Hardware in Hague & Warman, SK and a nature enthusiast. The two explore how learning happens everywhere through sharing experiences, stories...2022-12-1948 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsGetting Families Outdoors with Annika MangThis episode, join Leah and Brooklyn as they chat with Annika Mang from Born to Be Adventurous. Topics covered include ideas for getting families outside on adventures, breastfeeding in the backcountry, wild life precautions, the TrailCollectiv app, food ideas, and her book, Hikes for Families.
2022-12-1342 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsZoe Arnold and Risky PlayMike and Leah connect with Zoe Arnold from Wildernook Fresh Air Learning. Zoe shares about risky play, using tools, and supporting both outdoor and garden education.
2022-11-2944 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsMary Smillie & The Treaty Land Sharing NetworkThis week, Mike and Leah are joined by Mary Smillie. Mary is a farmer located near Davidson, Saskatchewan and is a leading member of the Treaty Land Sharing Network. Tune into the conversation as they chat about sustainable agriculture, reconciliation, and allyship.
For further information, check out the Globe and Mail's article about the importance of the Treaty Land Sharing Network and the Regina Leaderpost's article about Mary Smillie's discovery of the importance of what grows on her farm.
2022-11-1536 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsAnn CoxworthJoin Mike and Leah as they talk with Ann Coxworth about her lifetime of work in the environmental sector, her early years and our place in the world. Learn more about the Saskatchewan Environmental Society.
2022-11-0151 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsSamantha Gunn and Outdoor EducationJoin Mike and Leah as they talk with Samantha Gunn about her journey as an outdoor educator. Samantha works at Brightwater Science, Environmental and Indigenous Learning Centre and leads the Climate Educator’s Network. We talk about connection to the land, solo time, and shifts in educational programming. Also mentioned is the One School One Farm project. You can listen back to our interview about One School One Farm with Elizabeth Bekolay. You can reach Sam at gunns@spsd.sk.ca. We talk about connection to the land, solo time, and shifts in educational programming.
2022-10-2039 min
Earthy Chats PodcastEpisode 16: Community collaboration in built environmentsWhat’s the most impactful length for educational programming? How does community collaboration help us manage challenges? Why is intergenerational learning so effective? Here's what else we dove into in this Earthy Chat:
*the opportunities brought about by virtual learning
*getting back to hands-on, experiential learning with SaskOutdoors
*the benefits of active transportation like the Punch Buggy Express
*indirectly educating others through public programming
*outdoor learning in built environments
*how community collaboration in inherent to outdoor and environmental learning
*outdoor educational experiences at night (in th...2022-08-2955 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsForest Schools and Outdoor Learning with Jennifer MasonJoin Leah and Mike as they talk to Jen Mason about Forest Schools, child led learning, play, and the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada. Jen shares what led her to becoming an outdoor educator and her philosophy of play and learning.
2022-03-1235 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsOne School One Farm with Elizabeth BekolayElizabeth Bekolay is the founder of One School One Farm Shelterbelt project. Her background is in biology and ecology and she specializes in outdoor education of all kinds. She works as an interpreter at the Brightwater Science, Environmental and Indigenous Learning Centre and has her hand in a plethora in environmental initiatives in Saskatchewan.
For more information about the One School One Farm Shelterbelt project, please visit their website www.oneschoolonefarm.com or email Elizabeth at oneschoolonefarm@gmail.com.
Note: There were a few audio glitches during this episode that affect the quality, but bear w...2022-01-3039 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsLittle Red River Park, Wildernook & Winter Adventures with Claire MillerMike and Leah connect with Claire Miller from Wildernook, as she shares with us why we all should visit Little Red River Park in Prince Albert. She also talks about the North East Swale in Saskatoon, and how we can connect with and take care of these areas. We also get a glimpse into Wildernook and why we should celebrate and enjoy winter rather than hibernate away from it.
Claire shares ideas for integrating education in the outdoors as well as why it's a great location to visit.
Learn more about Claire's work at:
...2022-01-1243 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsJoyce Belcher on Connecting to NatureJoyce Belcher is a biologist, life coach, and writing teacher. She has spent a good portion of her life being inspired by “big skies, intact prairie grasslands and forest trails.”
Join Heather and Derek as they chat about Joyce’s time in the prairies and her way of connecting to nature.
If you'd like to connect with Joyce and learn more about her work, check out her website: https://www.joycebelcher.com/
2021-08-0643 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsRaea Gooding on hiking, canoeing, and getting outsideLeah and Mike caught up with Canadian Wildlife Federation's Wild Outside Youth Leadership Specialist, Raea Gooding, for this special summer episode. Join the conversation as Raea talks about environmental youth programming in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan while giving tips and helpful hints on where to hike and how to prepare for your next solo trek or group adventure in the outdoors. If you love paddling and enjoy listening to music, Raea just might have the perfect recommendation for a white water rapids music festival you need to put on your 2022 bucket list!
If you are a youth, or if you have a...2021-07-2938 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsA Conversation with Dr. Janet McVittieDr. Janet McVittie is a recently retired Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan and a 2021 Bernie Melanson Award Winner for lifetime achievement in education. Join us as we discuss place-based education, Janet’s work with pre-service teachers, and Janet’s thoughts about what would make the world a better place.
2021-07-2441 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsBonus Episode: Our Favourite Saskatchewan ParksJune is the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association's Parks and Rec Month. To celebrate outdoor enjoyment in our province, we asked our board and staff about their favourite memories from Saskatchewan parks. Younger family members got involved too and the result is a four season celebration of recreation in Saskatchewan. This special bonus episode contains stories about hiking, skiing, school trips, hidden fishing camps, and unicorns (!). We also talk about some of the outdoor mistakes we have made, proving that the best memories weren't always the smoothest in the moment.
2021-06-2621 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsPaddling Northern Saskatchewan with Ric DriedigerToday Heather & Mike chat with Ric Driediger. Ric is a canoe enthusiast who is an expert of the Churchill River. He is the owner and operator of Churchill River Canoe Outfitters, where paddlers from all around North America travel out of their way to tell stories around Ric’s campfire. Ric recently released a book: “Paddling Northern Saskatchewan: A Guide to 80 Canoe Routes.”
In this episode, we’re talking paddling, relationships, and why Kraft Dinner is not the ideal choice for your next long adventure.
Find out more about Ric at https://www.churchillrivercanoe.com/
2021-04-2358 min
Let’s Talk Outdoors48 Days Alone with Michelle WohlbergHeather and Derek join Saskatchewanian Michelle Wohlberg to talk about her experience as a contestant on season 6 of History Channel's, Alone. She shares her experience spending 48 days alone in the bush in the sub arctic. We dig into what it's really like to be alone that long, skills to survive, and the difference between what actually happened, and what ends up on TV, and how to get started getting outside.
Connect with Michelle on Instagram @michelleannewohlberg
2021-04-091h 00
Let’s Talk OutdoorsTrip Preparedness with Rebecca BassettJoin Leah and Derek as they chat with Rebecca Basset from Back40 Wilderness First Aid. We chat about advice for taking your family out adventuring, leading groups of students, and going out with friends. Gear and first aid ideas, along with lots of actionable advice on how to make sure you're prepared for what might come your way.
Connect with Rebecca online:
https://www.back40training.com/
https://www.instagram.com/back40training/
https://www.facebook.com/back40training
2021-03-2555 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsThe Saskatchewan Bucket List with Robin & Arlene KarpanIf you have ever been to a bookstore in Saskatchewan, you have probably seen the travel books written by writers Robin and Arlene Karpan. They are the award-winning writers behind The Great Saskatchewan Bucket List. In this episode, Robin and Arlene talk about their lifelong work as travel writers, photographers, and book publishers, while focusing on their own Saskatchewan adventures and their love for the Athabasca Sand Dunes.
2021-03-1151 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsPandemic Land-Based Learning & Dog Sledding with Garrick SchmidtJoin Leah & Derek as they chat with Land-Based Learning teacher and new musher Garrick Schmidt about what it's like running land-based programming during the pandemic. Garrick also shares advice about getting started, and talks about his experiences running dogs and how he got started with dog sledding!
2021-02-2545 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsWinter Adventures & World Travels with Ashlyn GeorgeAshlyn George is the award-winning adventurer and writer behind The Lost Girl's Guide to Finding the World blog. She is the go-to travel expert in Saskatchewan but is no stranger to trips abroad. Having travelled solo through more than 60 countries on all 7 continents, she's a passionate storyteller in pursuit of excitement, learning and discovery. When not on the road, you can find her adventuring in own her backyard as well as online @thelostgirlsguide. Join Heather and Mike as they talk about Ashlyn’s world travels, what brought her back to SK, and what kind of activities she recommends for this win...2020-12-0341 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsLand-Based Learning with Kevin LewisLeah & Derek sit down with Kevin Lewis about Land-Based Learning, stories from the boreal forest, making birch bark canoes, connections between Cree language and the land, and where and how you might look to get started for yourself. Kevin is both knowledgeable and entertaining as he weaves together teachings and stories in this episode.
Check out some resources Kevin recommends in the episode for more information on Land-Based Learning:
https://kaniyasihkculturecamps.com
https://www.instagram.com/kaniyasihkculturecamps/
https://www.wicihowin.ca
https://indigenouslanguage.ca
https://www.ikwc.org
https://sicc...2020-11-261h 01
Let’s Talk OutdoorsGetting Families Outdoors with Jeff MooreHeather and Derek catch up with Jeff Moore. Because of his own nature-immersed childhood, Jeff has a lot of recommendations for parents and families about getting outdoors and fostering a love for nature. Join us for ideas for getting started with getting outdoors, and some great words of wisdom from Jeff for all parents.
2020-11-1246 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsLeave No Trace with Andrea NelsonDerek & Leah chat with Andrea Nelson about the Leave No Trace Seven Principles:
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Resources:
https://www.leavenotrace.ca/home
https://www.adventuresmart.ca/
2020-10-2253 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsOutdoor Learning with Chris ClarkThis week Heather and Derek sit down to chat with Chris Clark to talk about Outdoor Learning. Join us for a discussion about about research and how Outdoor Learning is different from Outdoor Ed, discussions on some barriers, and ultimately some great ideas for roads in to getting started with Outdoor Learning in your own classroom.
Learn more about Chris here: https://engagedstudent.weebly.com/outdoor-learning
2020-10-0145 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsCitizen Science & Conservation with Kenton LysakKenton Lysak’s enthusiasm and passion for our beautiful province is infectious. Join Mike, Leah, and Kenton in their conversation about citizen science, environmentalism, conservation, and everything outdoors in Saskatchewan - and mainly the Saskatoon area.
Find out more about Kenton here: Nature City Festival
2020-09-1037 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsPaddling Canmore to Missinipe with Zev HeuerMost 15 year-olds may not have much to boast about when they discuss how they spent their time when schools closed early due to COVID. Zev Heuer, however, has quite the story to tell. Mike and Heather chat with Zev about his childhood adventures across Canada in a canoe and end with a discussion about his most recent two-month canoe trip from Canmore, Alberta to Missinipe, Saskatchewan.
2020-08-2035 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsOutdoor Education Panel DiscussionCOVID-19 has been an unsettling experience for everyone and it continues to be so as we enter Fall 2020. Outdoor learning has been touted by the Saskatchewan Government as one way to reduce the risks of a return to school. How can teachers incorporate outdoor learning into their classes? A panel of Saskatchewan educators discuss their experiences in Outdoor Ed to answer our questions.
2020-08-1554 min
Let’s Talk OutdoorsSeason One TrailerWe're excited to launch our first Season of Let's Talk Outdoors. Meet Leah, Mike, Heather and Derek and enjoy a quick sample to get your feet wet before diving into Season One.
2020-08-1401 min