Shows
The Evolving AdventurerE164: Healing my thumb, trusting my gutThank you for listening today, friends. It's a different format for today's episode: I share my recent experience trusting my gut and healing my thumb Hey adventurers! Welcome back to The Evolving Adventure(r), where we hit the trails, face the wild, and grow through every challenge life throws at us. I’m gregii, your guide through the dirt, sweat, and soul of outdoor living. Imagine this: you’re gearing up for a run, putting your shorts on, ready to crush today's training plan, and—boom—your thumb just says, “Nah, I’m out.” 2025-07-0424 minThe Evolving AdventurerE160: Tools & modalities for endurance recoveryRecovery from participating in endurance activities is imperative for those who desire longevity in their career, passion and/or hobby. But what is it, and how do we go about it?Recover can be defined as the exercises, modalities and therapies that are used to reduce soreness, promote healing, reduce the risk of injury, and increase range of motion. Put another way: it's what we do to repair, rebuild and strengthen the body to maximize performance and support health. Today's episode details the various methods that I use to recover from sustained physical efforts and...2025-04-1431 min
The Evolving AdventurerE80: WOW: Working through griefThanks for listening, friends!
The last two years have brought a lot of loss into everyone's life, whether it's a job, friend, lover, family member or an actual death of someone you care about. I've noticed a lot more people struggling over the past month, and wanted to do something to offer support.
Today's episode is about the stages of grief that humans experience after a loss (which often, but not necessarily is a death), and some tips and suggestions on how to move through the 5 stages of grief. These are suggestions and offerings from m...2022-03-0731 minThe Evolving AdventurerE79: WOW: The lessons of discomfortThanks for listening, friends! So today it was -1000 (again) when I went for a lovely run in blustery weather. The run got me thinking about what we can learn from discomfort, and the ways we build confidence from stepping into situations that have some level of uncomfortable feeling.
As always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with comments, questions and guest suggestions. Enjoy!2022-02-2831 minThe Evolving AdventurerE78: WOW: Deer wisdomAfter digging a path to a new plunge pool, and running 8 miles up a forest road with a new friend, I spooked 3 deer: a mom and 2 yearlings. That experience got me to ponder what messages deer had for me for while I finished the run, then jumped into the dang-near freezing creek for a cold plunge. It turns out there's some wonderful messages from deer regarding compassion, gentleness and an open heart... tune in today for some stories of the winter out here, the wisdom of deer, and how we can connect that to our own lives.
...2022-02-2125 minThe Evolving AdventurerE77: The healing I offer - an interview by Elena HarderHappy Valentine's Day, friends! Today my friend Elena Harder of the Joygasmic Life Podcast interviews me about my healing and personal growth journey to become a practitioner of consciousness-based modalities. It was fun to record this episode and share experiences with another amazing person on her own journey, and I look forward to the upcoming book sharing her story in more detail.
We had no script or set questions for this discussion - everything flowed freely after I hit the record button. As mentioned in the introduction, there were some audio issues from a grader clearing snow w...2022-02-141h 05The Evolving AdventurerWe're ALL MillionairesThe song "Millionaire" by Chris Stapleton came on during my run today, and I share some reflections upon how we're all millionaires... when we can change our perception towards nature.
Here's a link to the audio: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPoN-FNB2V8
As always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with comments, questions and guest suggestions.2022-02-1216 minThe Evolving AdventurerE76: Plug It with KylieToday's guest is my friend - and fellow run & cold plunge in the dark enthusiast - Kylie, a homeschooling mom who lives in a small off-grid house.
Kylie is yet another interesting person navigating several simultaneous wilderness situations including living on the side of a mountain in grizzly country. She shares with us her Plug It project to bring more joy to life through mindfulness, her experiences learning to sing in her 30s, the importance of listening to our breath, synchronicities, and the value of improv to manage your life. One of the recurring themes in our d...2022-02-071h 01The Evolving AdventurerE75: Wisdom from the RiverWhat wisdom and teachings can a river offer us? Tune in today where I share some of my river experiences and lessons learned and suggested by the magical waterbodies that flow through our lives.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2022-01-3122 minThe Evolving AdventurerE74: WOW: Cold PlungesCold plunges! Wim Hof is a wonderful guide into the world of breathwork and the benefits of the cold.
Today's episode shares some of my experiences with cold plunges, including my plunge-run 10 miles-plunge early-in-the-day adventure with a new friend. I've also compiled some of the studies mentioned in the episode that detail what changes occurred in individuals who began cold showers or plunges. Benefits of cold showers and plunges include reduced inflammation, improved circulation, enhanced immune system function and fat burning, blood sugar regulation, mood boosts and enhanced antioxidant activity, to name a few. There are others.2022-01-2429 minThe Evolving AdventurerE73: Elk, elk everywhere!I've been seeing elk every day for about a week now, and finally pulled out the Medicine Cards deck to see what message and wisdom they're sharing with me. Tune in today for some wisdom, and some thoughts about the ways that elk is reminding us how important stamina is.
As always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com for guest suggestions, questions and comments. Enjoy!2022-01-1717 minThe Evolving AdventurerE72: IntuitionWhat is intuition? Today's episode delves into my favorite definition of intuition from Positive Psychology, then shares some tips on how to connect - hint, #optoutside, leave your phone and take some deep breaths in nature - and an example or two of when I did or didn't listen to my intuition while favoring the "logical, rational" approach.
Dr Joe Dispenza has great resources that help you to create realities and bring dreams to fruition.
Enjoy today's episode, and, as always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2022-01-1019 minThe Evolving AdventurerE71: WOW: Navigating cancer with RebeccaHearing the word cancer conjures up emotions and imagery for pretty much everyone. Today we have a very special guest, my new friend Rebecca, a single mom who is navigating her second cancer diagnosis by focusing on holistic treatments. We discuss how she takes time to educate herself about the numerous available treatments, different methods of detoxifying the body, what led her to the holistic and traditional healing modalities, the importance of nature, the energy shifts from being outside, asking for help and how she connected with a new health paradigm.
We are both involved with Ezra W...2022-01-031h 05The Evolving AdventurerE70: CourageThere are many ways one can be courageous. In today's episode I detail my favorite definition of courage, some ways to build courage, and how our perceptions of courage can change when we broaden our view from what we are conditioned to.
Dictionary.com defines courage as "the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain... without fear; bravery."
Here's to everyone out there taking action in the face of fear.
“Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” John Wayne2021-12-2719 minThe Evolving AdventurerE69: It's AmazingIt's a solo episode today, friends, talking a bit about my BOSS experience and why the song Amazing by Aerosmith is such a connection for me. There are four simple sentences that have really impacted me in the years since that experience, and it's got a badass guitar solo. Why does this share wisdom? Well, read the lines below... and reflect upon how they bring up certain memories in your life:
It's amazing
With the blink of an eye you finally see the light
It's amazing
When the moment arrives that you know you'll b...2021-12-2023 minThe Evolving AdventurerE68: Wisdom from and for movingToday's episode details some of the ways moving catapults us into a growth phase... and I share some tips on things to consider when you are moving. We always grow when we move, as moving is often in conjunction with a new chapter of life.
As always, connect at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with your questions, comments, show ideas and guest suggestions.
Cheers!2021-12-1332 minThe Evolving AdventurerE66: Squirrel wisdomThank you for listening, friends! I was about to record a different episode about perspectives when my intuition directed an abrupt switch to share the story of my experiences earlier in the day. A squirrel called out during a session recording, and I was called to share the wisdom of squirrel from the Sams & Carson deck. My comments and thoughts follow the very fitting wisdom of these magical creatures who played a significant component in how my day transpired.
As always, connect with me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with questions, comments and guest suggestions. Enjoy!2021-12-0615 minThe Evolving AdventurerE65: Lure of the Open RoadWhat wisdom can we glean when we ponder the lure of the open road? Today I share some thoughts about the draw of road trips, as we have unlimited possibilities once we start our drive. The feeling of freedom, the magic that can transpire, and connection with our ancestral memories of hunter-gather lifestyles all connect to the draw of the open road.
As always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-11-2927 minThe Evolving AdventurerE64: Joygasmic Life with Elena HarderToday's episode is a fun discussion about sexuality, free birthing, personal growth and the Joygasmic life with Elena Harder. Elena's passion and positivity is contagious, and it was wonderful to connect and hear about her current, and in-the-works offerings. Elena's podcast focuses on Inspiring stories and actionable ideas for awakening mothers. Her podcast can be found here.
Elena Harder is a Courage Catalyst and Bulletproof Mom Coach. She started her awakening journey when she conceived her son in an abusive relationship, and then spent 7 years in crippling postpartum depression, self loathing and people pleasing. She never gave up...2021-11-221h 04The Evolving AdventurerE63: The stolen phoneThanks for listening today, friends! In the fall of 2019, on a post-intense summer job road trip, my phone was stolen while I was spending time with an old contact. It was a very interesting time, and I thought it prudent to share thoughts on the technology dependence many people have... and what that can open up for learnings and growth when it is no longer available. Paper maps, handwritten address/contact books, and spatial/situational awareness are things that can be learned, and serve as backups when technology fails. My experience was a challenge, but I not just managed--I...2021-11-1530 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Positivity spreadsPositivity spreads, and we can make a difference with our thoughts and actions. Where thoughts go, energy flows... this episode is a result of technological fails trying to record for the second time with Realist Idealist about how thoughts create things, energy and creating our dream with intent, visualization and conscious language. While annoying, the inability to record tonight spurred an impromptu monologue sharing some of the positive aspects of my day, including how my positive attitude and focus affected several people in the grocery store checkout line. That's just one example of how we can be the change...2021-11-1119 minThe Evolving AdventurerE62: Wisdom from the fishToday's episode details an experience I had with a rainbow trout in the local river... then how that experience connected synchronistically to a friend's fishing expedition 4 hours away. It's incredible what transpires when we block out the voices competing for our attention and reconnect with our own intuition. Magical coincidences can -- and do -- happen!
As always, please connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with comments, questions and guest suggesions. 2021-11-0818 minThe Evolving AdventurerE61: Wisdom from Running with Aileen McKeownThank you for listening, friends! We've got a fun episode today with my friend and fellow trail runner, Aileen. Aileen has completed several epic adventures in the mountains, from crushing local peaks to solo explorations of Moab, Utah to finishing as second-place female and 16th overall at the 2020 Orcas Island 100 mile ultramarathon in torrential rain. She's written great articles for the Trail Sisters community that can be found here: https://trailsisters.net/author/aileenmckeown/
We have a wide-ranging conversation about outdoor adventuring, taking solo road trips, the new frontier of raising a puppy and what got her...2021-11-0152 minThe Evolving AdventurerE60: CompassionThanks for listening, friends! Today I delve into compassion... more specifically, ways to be compassionate during these unusual times. There are some tips on how to be compassionate when interacting with anyone else - friend, family member, spouse, partner, store clerk - and a reminder that we can all be kind, regardless of our differences.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Contact me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-10-2527 minThe Evolving AdventurerE59: Navigating relationship endingsHi friends, thanks for listening today! This episode shares some ways we can process the ending of a relationship, whether a friendship, partnership, employment or family connections. We're focusing on solutions and ways to move forward in life after what can be a jarring experience.
I reference this video of Johnny Cash singing Hurt in the earlier parts of the episode.
Connect with me via wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com with questions, comments and to share suggestions for future guests.
In adventure!2021-10-1828 minThe Evolving AdventurerE58: Reality... with Realist IdealistThank you for listening today, friends. It's a special episode, the first in a new series of Real Conversations with my good friend, host of Realist Idealist podcast.
Today's discussion is about the concept of reality: we explore several different related topics while eschewing others for another time and episode. It's very interesting to note what our discussion centers on when we encounter unexplained audio difficulties. We cover some of the limits of language in the context of neuro-linguistic programming, whether reality or truth is objective or subjective, the role of perspective, how thoughts can create "realities"...2021-10-111h 51The Evolving AdventurerE57: A chance wolverine encounterThank you for listening, friends! In today's episode I share a brief, yet memorable wolverine encounter under the Milky Way earlier this week. I also share some thoughts and guidance we can connect with through the energy of wolverine.
As always, reach out to me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com and enjoy the episode!2021-10-0418 minThe Evolving AdventurerE56: Ladybugs bringing abundanceThanks for listening, friends! I've been seeing ladybugs everywhere as summer wraps up... and I thought, why not share some of the wisdom of ladybug as we transition into autumn. The leaves are changing, the harvest is bountiful and there are transitions happening everywhere. What wisdom does ladybug bring, and how can it apply to your life?
As always, connect with me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com 2021-09-2719 minThe Evolving AdventurerE55: Grasshoppers everywhereI've been seeing grasshoppers everywhere over the past two weeks as we transition into autumn. The sightings prompted me to research some fo the wisdom associated with grasshopper... and much to my interest, there is much to be gleaned from what I found. Today's episode focuses on some lessons and invitations from grasshopper, with illustrations from both my experience and what yours could be. Thanks for listening!
As always, connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com 2021-09-2018 minThe Evolving AdventurerE54: Transformation with the butterfliesI've been seeing tons of butterflies lately: landing on me, flying by... all different colors and descriptions. What wisdom does the wilderness of butterflies hold? There are some pretty neat thoughts about transformation, change and emerging from a cocoon today...
As always, connect with me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com and #optoutside to enjoy nature today.2021-09-1314 minThe Evolving AdventurerE53: Spooking grouse with the ghostsFor three consecutive hike/runs on different mountains I scared the bejeezus out of a (or a covey) of grouse. I was curious what the medaning of this might be, for the experiences were too similar to dismiss as mere coincidence. It turns out that grouse shares a wonderful message for this time of year - listen in to hear more, and more ways to connect with nature as we approach the autumnal equinox.
As always, you can connect with me through wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-09-0610 minThe Evolving AdventurerE52: Snake eyes in the desertDid you know there's a desert in Canada? Actually, there's more than one.
Today's episode covers a story of my mountain adventures, then the wisdom shared by Snake... especially from the rattler I encountered exploring the South Okanagan, which is the northern tip of the Sonoran Desert. Crazy!
As always, please share this episode with your friends, pass along to colleagues and rate it on your podcast platform of choice. You can connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com for all comments, questions and guest requests. Enjoy!2021-08-3015 minThe Evolving AdventurerE51: Hawks everywhere!I'm on an unstructured trip to explore the BC mountains and keep seeing red-tailed hawks... what message does the hawk wish to share with us today?2021-08-2309 minThe Evolving AdventurerE50: Wisdom from the fox(es)Thanks for listening, friends! I've had quite the series of experiences with foxes on my adventures in the Rockies... and I wanted to share both the adventures, and the wisdom and invitations from the Fox medicine card. I've really enjoyed Fernie Brewing's IPAs - Eclipse, Thunder Meadows, and Nomad, specifically. They're not a sponsor, and I'm not paid to endorse their products, but all their staff have been friendly and helpful while I've been checking out the area.
As always, please rate this podcast on the podcast platform of your choosing, and pass it along to your...2021-08-1620 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: An armadillo story with wisdomThanks for listening, friends! Today we've got a short bonus episode: an experience I had driving on the highway today, some tips for navigating the wilderness of the increasingly-crowded roads, and the wisdom armadillo shares. Enjoy!
As always, feel free to connect with me: wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com
2021-08-1212 minThe Evolving AdventurerE49: Cast Iron CookingThank you for listening! Today I'm sharing some of the reasons I use cast iron cookware, and some of the benefits thereof. If you haven't used it, there's a wilderness-like learning curve from using this sturdy, reliable form of food preparation dating back more than 2500 years. Enjoy!
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-08-0921 minThe Evolving AdventurerE48: WOW: You'll never know... if you never goHey friends! Today I'm sharing a story of my experience at Ormiston Gorge, Northern Territory, Australia. That experience caused me to literally and figuratively reassess the concept of identity and how it relates to our perception. Truly, you'll never know if you never go. As the former tourism campaign of the Northern Territory, it's fitting that this experience happened in such a majestic part of the world.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-08-0229 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: The Crow FeatherI received the gift of a crow feather on my evening walk... at a fortuitous time, no less. What wisdom does the crow feather have to share with us today?
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-07-3009 minThe Evolving AdventurerE46: My used vehicle purchaseI got my truck! Today's episode details my experience purchasing the truck, plus my list of must haves, dealbreakers, and nice to have features along with a hefty dose of wisdom gained from previous experiences. The past three months of vehicle issues have been quite the ride, and I'm excited to move on to new adventures in a new adventuremobile!
When considering a vehicle, it's very helpful to have a list of essential features it must have what your dealbreakers are, and what is nice--but not essential. Everyone has their own preferences, tolerances and interests: be sure...2021-07-2658 minThe Evolving AdventurerE46: More vehicle search wisdomI'm feeling a bit like I'm stuck in a Corb Lund song entitled Truck Got Stuck.
Today's episode is an update on the truck search with some learnings--and adventures--test driving a Toyota, Ford, and repairing (again) the Forester which has been unofficially dubbed The Death Trap. The following statement from Marcel Proust sure is holding true for this... adventure:
“We don't receive wisdom; we must discover it for ourselves after a journey that no one can take for us or spare us.”
― Marcel Proust
I reference the Chris Fix and The Homework Guy vid...2021-07-2049 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Buzzed by a HawkWhat has the hawk swooped by to share with us all today? Find out on this special bonus episode of the Wisdom of the Wilderness podcast.
Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Pass them along at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-07-1608 minThe Evolving AdventurerE45: Heat wave tips w/ a bonus Vegas storyToday's episode focuses on tips to manage a heat wave like the unusual one sweeping across the west right now: it was 106F/41C as I recorded!
This link to NOLS Wilderness Medicine is a great resource for preventing and treating heat illness.
https://blog.nols.edu/2015/08/11/preventing-and-treating-heat-illness
2021-07-1224 minThe Evolving AdventurerE44: WOW: Tips for buying a used vehicleThe last episode of a three-part series detailing my recent experience purchasing a new-to-me vehicle, and what I learned the hard way. I hope you can learn from my mistakes the next time you're purchasing a vehicle. There are some great resources available online that walk you through conducting an inspection, how to negotiate, and what to be aware of. Enjoy!
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-07-0538 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: More heat wave wisdom“We don't receive wisdom; we must discover it for ourselves after a journey that no one can take for us or spare us.” Marcel Proust
Being in a heat wave can be a challenge, yet it also offers several invitations to reassess routines, plans and life. Join me today for some thoughts on what additional wisdom the heat wave shares.
Comments? Questions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-07-0217 minThe Evolving AdventurerE43: WOW: Wisdom from the car failuresPart two of a three-part series detailing my recent experience purchasing a new-to-me vehicle, being Whitehorsed working on the issues that unexpectedly popped up immediately after purchase, and what I learned the hard way. I hope you enjoy this story, and can learn from my mistakes the next time you're purchasing a vehicle.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com 2021-06-2820 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Cougar encounter & Mountain Lion wisdomSo I nearly ran into a cougar just moseying down the trail today... pretty unusual, but also it was a life goal of mine to see one, so it's a great day! My encounter was over quickly, as the cougar just walked into the bush. Others may have different experiences when encountering a mountain lion. I decided to look into the wisdom and medicine that cougar/mountain lion has to share, and share some ways to embody that in our lives. Again, all readings are from the Sams & Carson Medicine Cards.
I refer to a video from l...2021-06-2818 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Moose wisdomIs there a moose on the loose in your life? Listen along to find out what moose medicine can offer, and where the energy might be found.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-06-2211 minThe Evolving AdventurerE42: WOW: The car failuresPart one of a three-part series detailing my recent experience purchasing a new-to-me vehicle, being Whitehorsed working on the issues that unexpectedly popped up immediately after purchase, and what I learned the hard way. I hope you enjoy this story, and can learn from my mistakes the next time you're purchasing a vehicle.
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-06-2121 minThe Evolving AdventurerE40: WOW: Desert wisdomThank you for listening today, friends! Today I'm talking about some of the wisdom shared with us by deserts, with examples from some of my desert experiences. Enjoy!
Questions? Comments? Guest suggestions? Connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-06-1426 minThe Evolving AdventurerE39: Benefits of disconnectingToday's episode starts with an update on my 5-months-and-counting social media detox disconnect. I was inspired to share some of the benefits you may experience turning off your phone for a set time to focus elsewhere, choosing to spend an hour, day or longer disconnecting from media sources or social media, and what you may notice disconnecting from an urban environment to get out in nature for a afternoon, day, weekend or longer trip. Thank you for listening!
Feel free to connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-06-0727 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Hummingbird says helloA lovely hummingbird dropped by to share energy shortly after a series of interesting bird and animal encounters during a trail run... what did she have to share?
Feel free to connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-06-0208 minThe Evolving AdventurerE38: Bear WisdomI had an interesting encounter with a black bear Friday morning, prompting me to read up about Bear in the Sams & Carson Medicine Cards book and deck. Quite the appropriate energy to show up in my life at this time... and I thought it may resonate with you, too.
Enjoy! Feel free to connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-05-3108 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Raven energy... with a twistThanks for listening to this bonus episode! Raven came up recently and the message felt like a good one to share... lo and behold, a baby dragonfly landed on my bare foot while recording and we also go into Dragonfly's message.
Feel free to connect with me at wisdomofthewilderness@protonmail.com2021-05-2811 minThe Evolving AdventurerE37: Travel in bear countryToday I'm sharing the story of a bear encounter I recently had, plus some suggestions on travel in bear country. Enjoy!2021-05-2423 minThe Evolving AdventurerE36: Wilderness First ResponderToday I'm sharing some of the wisdom from taking a Wilderness First Responder course, and how that can apply to our lives. Enjoy!
WFR course providers include NOLS Wilderness Medicine, WMA and Base Medical. 2021-05-1731 minThe Evolving AdventurerE35: WOW: GardeningAs we enter spring and folks are planning out gardens, preparing for adventures and ready to enjoy longer days of sunshine, I thought it beneficial to share some thoughts and wisdom gained from gardening.2021-05-0323 minThe Evolving AdventurerE34: RainSome thoughts today about lessons, wisdom and invitations from everyone's favorite weather topic: rain!2021-04-2622 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: A quick & simple connect with nature exerciseThanks for listening on Earth Day, friends! Today I share a quick, simple way to connect with nature to decompress and de-stress: it's even part of my morning routine. Enjoy!2021-04-2009 minThe Evolving AdventurerE33: My journey to nature and natural healingToday's episode details my journey to working with nature, natural healing and trying many complementary, integrative health and healing modalities for myself. This is only my experience, and in no way, shape or form constitutes, nor can it be inferred to constitute, any type of medical advice. My experience is shared for information purposes; your health decisions are your responsibility.
Qi Gong
Tai Chi
Reiki
BodyTalk
Linking Awareness
Yoga
Hot Yoga
Massage Therapy
Active Release Technique
...2021-04-1947 minThe Evolving AdventurerE32: Traditional & Ancestral SkillsI've been focusing lately on learning and improving traditional, ancestral skills. Join me on today's episode to learn why they're important, how to learn or improve, and what they can teach us, inspire us with, and how they're empowering. This episode was recorded prior to Episode 31.2021-04-1225 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: West Coast WolfA series of synchronicities gave me the wolf card from the Jamie Sams & David Carson Medicine Cards after discussing a wolf encounter on a dayhike... which prompted me to share the story of that wolf encounter while backpacking the West Coast Trail. 2021-04-0820 minThe Evolving AdventurerE31: Eli: The experience of being humanI'm excited to share this episode with my good friend Eli, Executive Director of the Boulder Outdoor Survival School and former Official Farmer of the South Pole. Eli has lived an interesting life in environmental education field that has culminated in his current position through the wealth of knowledge and experience he has built. We have a fun conversation about what it means to be human, the experience of being alive, the language of the landscape and different types of knowledge. There are a lot of wonderful quotes and nuggets of wisdom during this episode.
Here are l...2021-04-051h 09The Evolving AdventurerE30: Resilience in NatureSome musings today on where we see resilience in nature, and how we can use that resilience as a metaphor for our own lives.2021-03-2911 minThe Evolving AdventurerE29: WOW - car crashesThanks for joining me again, friends! It's a bit of a change for this week's episode as I go into some things I learned after a car wreck in the fall of 2015. There's a mix of what I shared in an article I wrote for an outdoor organization shortly after relating to being both an injured party and a first responder for an incident, plus what I've gleaned in the years that followed.
As always, this episode is provided for information purposes and to share wisdom gained from that experience.
I mention a few things...2021-03-2229 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Wisdom from heronsA short bonus episode for y'all today after encountering a siege of Great Blue Herons on my trail run today. It's unusual to see more than one heron, as they're solitary, territorial individuals. I saw a group of about 20 on the far side of the lake when I made an unusual-for-me stop to look around that probably wasn't a coincidence. Sharing the wisdom and insight from the Jamie Sams & David Carson Medicine Cards, we learn some of the wisdom heron has to share: self-reflection and seeking our own truth.
This website has more information about heron wisdom2021-03-1613 minThe Evolving AdventurerE28: Friction FireThere I was, minding my own business practicing my friction fire skills when inspiration struck: why not share some of the lessons, wisdom and inspiration connected to making fire with sticks?
I learned the skill during my BOSS course. There are many other materials that can be used, and techniques to try: a simple internet or video search can provide a variety of options to learn or enhance your skills. Enjoy!2021-03-1525 minThe Evolving AdventurerBonus: Abundance coming your wayToday's bonus episode shares the wisdom and insight of the Buffalo card. I've pulled the Buffalo out of the Medicine Cards deck by Jamie Sams and David Carson several times this week, which suggested its message is to be shared widely. As always, this episode is provided for information purposes. Enjoy!2021-03-1107 minThe Evolving AdventurerE27: WOW - Expectations in the Sierra NevadaThanks for listening!
Today is a bit of a twist: a story of how expectations I had of the Sierra Nevada were shattered once I finally got out to visit in the fall of 2019. Listen along to learn how visiting to see and experience for myself completely changed ideas I'd held for no good reason. Maybe this has happened to you, too?2021-03-0820 minThe Evolving AdventurerE26: Diane - Inner JourneysThank you for listening! Today we've got a treat: a wide-ranging discussion of journeys through the inner and outer wilderness with Diane Clemenceau.
Diane is a Purpose & Fulfillment Specialist and Clinical Hypnotherapist who guides high achievers to reconnect and align to their true essence and purpose by inviting more of God into their life. That way they can experience deep fulfillment and aliveness from within and have the confidence and courage to share the song that’s in their hearts so life doesn’t pass them by with their music still inside of them.
We cover...2021-03-0157 minThe Evolving AdventurerHolding SpaceSome tips on how to hold space, for those who may find themselves called to do so. We can appreciate many things about how nature holds space for us all in our role as nature: There is no good, bad or ideal... and it is not our role to judge. I refer to this article focusing upon Indigenous worldviews in relation to regenerative agriculture and permaculture.
I mention the following modalities I learned as part of my journey:
Linking Awareness
Reiki
BodyTalk2021-02-2616 minThe Evolving AdventurerE25: Nature's influence on identityHow the nature of our environment contributes to our identity2021-02-2219 minThe Evolving AdventurerSocial Media DetoxHi friends! Today's episode is sharing what I experienced and learned during a social media detox that is nearly at two months. I talk about why, what changed, what's opened up and what's been challenging after disconnecting from the platforms.
As always, this experience and the wisdom gained are shared for information purposes. Feel free to take, leave or ponder anything on this episode.
Thank you for listening!2021-02-1824 minThe Evolving AdventurerE24: Tyra: Places, connections and adventuresThanks for listening, friends! Today I've got an interview with Tyra, an old friend from what in some ways is a lifetime ago. We have a wide-ranging, free-flowing discussion about wilderness, the importance of place, place attachment and place identity.
As promised, here are links to some of the locations that are mentioned as we meander along... in no particular order:
Tongass National Forest
Chugach National Forest
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve
Alaska
Devil's Tower National Monument aka Bear's Lodge
Devil's Tower origin st...2021-02-151h 05The Evolving AdventurerWOW: Wheeler Peak, NMToday I'm sharing a story--and the wisdom gained--from a hiking adventure to the highest point of New Mexico, Wheeler Peak.
My plan to attempt two 14,000’ peaks in southern Colorado, Blanca & Ellingwood, was aborted due to high winds and snow at higher elevations. The backup plan was to hike Wheeler Peak: the highest point in New Mexico had been on my to-do list for nearly a decade.
A version of this episode also appears here in print.
Enjoy, friends!2021-02-1231 minThe Evolving AdventurerE23: WOW: Through The Eyes of a ChildWisdom to be found seeing through the eyes of a child.2021-02-0814 minThe Evolving AdventurerE22: Samantha: Follow your gutA fun interview with my friend Samantha where we discuss her explorations of Western Canada and what it's like to guide tours out here. 2021-02-0147 minThe Evolving AdventurerShine The LightSome great wisdom from a lovely song entitled Shine The Light by Sugarland2021-01-3102 minThe Evolving AdventurerE21: Wisdom from horsesToday is another fun interview with the Realist Idealist about horses. We chat about what we can learn from horses about ourselves, our relationships, society and our connections. There is so much wisdom to learn with and from these majestic animals.
Our discussion brings in aspects of both figurative and literal wilderness when we get into learnings from mustangs, feral or wild horses in North America: what can they represent in us, and how can we learn from them?
Thanks for listening, friends! 2021-01-251h 04The Evolving AdventurerBonus: Kindness2 minutes about kindness: can you share some today?2021-01-2202 minThe Evolving AdventurerE20: Nature NegativesEpisode 18: Nature Negatives... and how to counter them
What's a nature negative, pray tell? Well, madam or sir, a nature negative can best be described with an example. A cold, rainy, gray day in November is "miserable." In reality, the day is cold, rainy and gray... it is humans who decide it is miserable, and unsuitable for going out when in actuality, it's simply what nature does in November. Counteracting nature negatives can be as simple as recognizing them, dressing appropriately or modifying one's behavior to see the invitation different situations offer. An "unsuitable" area for camping...2021-01-1819 minThe Evolving AdventurerE19: WOW: Starting something newAs Warren Miller says, if you don't do it this year, you'll be one year older when you do.
A solo episode today celebrates the new year with my story of the figurative wilderness I've been navigating since coming to the decision to start this podcast. It's been a steep learning curve requiring patience, compassion and asking for help. Big thanks to my friend Richard at the Pro Hockey News podcast for answering heaps of questions and offering his insight and advice. Cheers, amigo!
As always, thank you for listening: if you get a chance, p...2021-01-1122 min
The Evolving AdventurerE18: Emily Keddie: Staying MotivatedToday I’m excited to be chatting with Emily about her Yahtzee game, developed to stay motivated and focused during the unexpected changes thrown at everyone this year. Emily Keddie is an endurance athlete, mountain climber and adventure lover frequently seen with her canine companion, Jolly. Listen along for a hefty dose of inspiration, determination and the courage to try new things.
3 Sisters Wilderness in Oregon.
The Tetons are the mountain range located in and near Grand Teton National Park
Bend is a fun town in central Oregon.
We both plan to...2021-01-0457 minThe Evolving AdventurerE17: Nature contact & mental health IIIMore synopses of research studies investigating the mechanisms and means by which nature contact affects mental health. There's a lot, there's a lot of repetition and a lot to digest... the biggest takeaway? Just getting outside, whether in an urban park, for an urban walk or to watch your kids play has huge benefits for stress-relief. It's nature itself that provide the benefits, not the way in which you access nature.
Studies referenced in this article include:
Nature–Based Interventions for Improving Health and Wellbeing: The Purpose, the People and the Outcomes
Spending at...2020-12-3114 minThe Evolving AdventurerE16: Critical Thinking with Realist IdealistThanks for listening today! This week we're back again with another guest, the host of the Realist Idealist podcast.
This is a wide-ranging, unscripted conversation about critical thinking. We cover discomfort with emotions, sitting in or with negative emotions, dam-building, how solving a problem can create new problems, and how to connect with your own feelings, emotions and intuition.
I mention a fantastic professor who encouraged critical thinking in courses I took during my master's degree program.
We talk briefly about an issue with biodiesel I heard about on the Life Stylist podcast w...2020-12-281h 10The Evolving AdventurerE15: Mental health & nature contact IIHello friends, another solo episode today discussing some studies reporting the benefits and potential mechanisms by which nature contact improves mental health. With reports of deteriorating mental health becoming more common over the past few months this is an important topic; time in nature can have noticeable effects on mental health with as little as 120 minutes--2 hours--of contact time per week. Please reach out to trusted friends, family and colleagues, or contact a mental health professional if you are struggling during this time.
Studies referenced in this episode include
How might contact with nature promote...2020-12-2426 minThe Evolving AdventurerE14: Jillian: Adventures on the Pacific Crest TrailToday we’re talking to Jillian Keenan, a journalist and author currently based in Mexico City, Mexico about her experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. Connect with Jillian on Instagram or Twitter.
Here’s some links to topics discussed in the episode:
The Pacific Crest Trail
Jillian's Mantis pack is a custom version from ULA Packs.
Here's where to get a Cotopaxi fanny pack like mine (thanks, Holly!) to match Jillian’s Mantis backpack.
The Arctic Circle Trail is in Greenland.
Jillian’s 20 minute PCT highlight reel
The co...2020-12-2156 minThe Evolving AdventurerE13: Tina: be brave enough to change itToday we talk with Tina, a passionate hiker and skier currently in Austria. Tina shares her story of living an adventurous life while working close to nature in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. She's also shares some wonderful life wisdom, stories of her travels and jobs, and her infectious positivity.
Enjoy this episode!2020-12-141h 00The Evolving AdventurerBonus: Mental health & nature exposure IA short bonus episode summarizing a few more studies about nature contact and the benefits on mental health. Studies referenced in this episode include:
Contact to Nature Benefits Health: Mixed Effectiveness of Different Mechanisms
Nature–Based Interventions for Improving Health and Wellbeing: The Purpose, the People and the Outcomes
Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing2020-12-1014 minThe Evolving AdventurerE12: Wisdom gained from long drives & road tripsThanks for joining! It's a solo episode today where I share some tips and tricks I've picked up from a decade(ish) of taking long road trips, whether solo or with friends. There's a lot of territory you can cover in North America with a set of wheels, and a lot of things that can help make the drivetime more enjoyable.
Enjoy!2020-12-0728 minThe Evolving AdventurerE10: Megan: Tres RevsWelcome to the first episode with a guest! My friend Megan joins us from Colorado to talk about her experiences in nature, a game we used to play while hiking called Tres Revs, working with at-risk youth, the importance of having a connection to your local environment and a beginner's mind. We also talk a bit about flow state, being present, and multiple intelligences.
Some links to things we discuss:
Megan applied for graduate school at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado.
I quote from the inspiring book Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey:
2020-11-3055 minThe Evolving AdventurerE9: Clyde's WisdomToday is all about Clyde, the wonderful stevia plant I grew this summer. Learn about his journey as a metaphor for reflecting upon our own life situations in work, relationships and locations.
Thank you for listening!2020-11-2316 minThe Evolving AdventurerE8: Human health depends on environmental healthOur health as humans is dependent upon the health of the environment. How so? We need fresh air to breathe, clean water to drink, healthy soils to grow food in, forests/plants/trees to produce oxygen, and the work of pollinators such as bees to help agricultural crops grow. The interconnections between ecosystems and species, symbiotic relationships and food webs are essential to maintaining the quality of life for all sentient beings on earth.
Please remember, we live on this planet and are dependent upon her resources. The food we eat, the air we breathe, the water w...2020-11-1620 minThe Evolving Adventurer11/11 Bonus: The Sunshine Vitamin & Our Immune SystemExposure to natural sunlight causes Vitamin D to be produced by the body; it also plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin D can modify the innate and adaptive immune responses; a deficiency is associated with greater chances of an infections and mortality.
This bonus episode discusses a recent study on the Vitamin D status of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in Spain. Recent research suggests a relationship between Vitamin D levels and coronavirus susceptibility. Vitamin D may play a preventative role, and improve the prognosis for those diagnosed with COVID-19.
This information i...2020-11-1106 minThe Evolving AdventurerE7: Using metaphors and analogies in natureIn this episode of Wisdom of the Wilderness, we learn about different ways to use analogies and metaphors in nature to help understand our own lives.
Thanks for joining the conversation! 2020-11-0918 minThe Evolving AdventurerE6: My experience with BOSSA story about my experience completing a 14 Day Field Course with the Boulder Outdoor Survival School (BOSS) in the summer of 2012.
I tie into previous episodes as I relate how contact with nature, earthing and immersion in the outdoors affected me during and after the course, and catalyzed major changes in my life as I journaled on the wilderness within while on the solo component.
More information about BOSS can be found on the website at www.boss-inc.com2020-11-0419 minThe Evolving AdventurerE5: The Benefits of Earthing/GroundingEarthing/grounding is having direct physical contact with the surface of the earth. Walking barefoot outside, or sitting, working or sleeping indoors connected to conductive systems that are transferring the earth's free electrons into the body from the ground has been associated with a wide range of health benefits.
In this episode we learn all about earthing aka grounding including a synopsis of several studies, ways to quickly ground ourselves and what the health benefits are. Benefits of grounding include reduced inflammation, better sleep quality, reduced muscle pain after activity, greater feelings of calm... and a reconnection...2020-11-0227 minThe Evolving AdventurerE4: Ways to sneak nature time into your dayAs little as 10-20 minutes of contact with nature can reduce stress and feelings of depression and anxiety. Today I'm sharing a few ways I sneak in nature time to maintain well-being.
Thank you for listening!2020-10-2708 minThe Evolving AdventurerE3: The benefits of wildernessEpisode 3: the benefits of wilderness! Well, some of them. Join along to hear why wilderness is important for the variety of services and values we gain, plus why conservation is imperative for the future. 2020-10-1529 minThe Evolving AdventurerE2: General benefits of time outdoorsEpisode 2 details some of the benefits we can receive from just getting outside. Lowered blood pressure, reduced feelings of depression and anxiety, lowered stress levels and cortisol, and activation of the parasympathetic (aka rest and digest ) nervous system are a few of the benefits covered. Some of the stresses of urban living are mentioned, including the transition somewhere in 2008 when human population in urban areas became greater than the rural population. The steady stresses of urban life have been associated with mood disorders, and both constant stimuli and the demands of modern life can activate the sympathetic (aka fight...2020-10-1316 minThe Evolving AdventurerE1: Wisdom of the WildernessWelcome to the inaugural episode of Wisdom of the Wilderness podcast. This episode is an introduction to why I started, what we'll be doing and how this podcast can inspire, educate and empower you to reconnect to well-being. In the future we'll be chatting with average people about lessons learned on their personal journeys through uncharted territory--perhaps even in wilderness areas, sharing benefits of time spent in the outdoors, and using nature as a tool to guide us along our own voyages of discovery.
I recap the reasons behind starting the podcast, a bit of my story...2020-10-1321 min