This episode considers how much of the current language around nature therapy can actually distance some people, and focuses on the need for better ways to talk about earth care and connection to the earth for men in particular. Jason Lyle shares with Forest about Adventures in Recovery, an organization in the state of Georgia that uses wilderness experience to facilitate healing and personal growth for men. He discusses the profound impact of wilderness therapy on mental health, the importance of reconnecting with the body and nature, and the evolving landscape of spirituality in modern society. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for individuals to immerse themselves in nature, and highlights the significance of community connection recovery processes.

Adventures in Recovery (soon to be rebranded as AIR Georgia)

Freeology Podcast (soon to be rebranded as Sacred Grit podcast)

Takeaways

• Jason shares his deep connection to nature and its impact on his life.
• Adventures in Recovery focuses on healing through nature and community.
• The importance of personal experiences in shaping one's purpose.
• Nature immersion helps individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions.
• Spirituality can be practical and rooted in everyday decisions.
• The body and mind connection is crucial for personal growth.
• Community support plays a vital role in recovery processes.
• Nature teaches resilience and adaptability in challenging situations.
• Practical strategies for reconnecting with nature include immersion and foraging.
• The future of spiritual communities may focus on personal experiences rather than traditional structures.

Keywords

nature, healing, recovery, spirituality, wilderness therapy, personal growth, men's mental health, adventure, community, connection, nature-based therapy, redneck culture, adoption trauma

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Americans are facing a massive crisis in earth care. The stark reality is that we’ve all been witnessing the decimation of multiple government land management agencies, such as the National Park Service and US Fish and Wildlife, among many others. And it’s becoming increasingly obvious how the present administration’s drastic cuts to staffing and budgets translates into the wholesale gutting of public services, environmental protections, and critical research for planetary health. But what we don’t hear about so much is the cost of these changes to the actual federal employees on the front lines of these agencies-- in terms of their economic security, their mental health, and even their human dignity.

In this conversation, Mark, a federal worker reflects on his 33-year career with the U.S. Forest Service, discussing his journey in land conservation, the importance of education in fostering environmental values, and the current threats to environmental regulations under political changes. He emphasizes the human cost of these policies and the need for community engagement and honest conversations to resist anti-Earth agendas. Mark also shares his ongoing passion for conservation and the role of education in shaping future generations' relationship with the environment.

Episode 12: Mark's previous episode on Earthkeepers

Episode 14: Children and earthkeeping: The Woodsong Forest School

Takeaways
Mark reflects on his fulfilling career in land conservation.
Education plays a crucial role in valuing the environment.
The dismantling of environmental regulations poses significant risks.
Political changes have drastically affected land management agencies.
Restoring environmental standards will be a long and costly process.
Federal employees are facing unprecedented challenges and trauma.
Community engagement is essential for effective conservation efforts.
Real resistance requires honest conversations and understanding.
Mark emphasizes the importance of native species in restoration.
Everyone has a role in educating others about environmental issues.

Keywords
land conservation, environmental policy, education, native species, public lands, whistleblower, environmental regulations, political impact, community engagement, national parks

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Have you ever wondered what it might be like to align your daily work in ways that directly benefit the planet? Or, do you know folks in the early stages of vocational exploration who are seeking meaningful work in fields connected to earth care? In this episode, Forrest talks with Brennan Ziegler—a guy in his mid-twenties who has dedicated himself to exploring many possible paths in earthkeeping as vocation. Brennan Ziegler shares his journey as a young advocate for the environment, discussing the emotional landscape of his generation regarding climate change, his formative experiences in nature, and his educational path that led him to work at Dr. Bronner's Soap Company. He emphasizes the importance of community support, the authenticity of business practices, and the role of education in fostering climate action. Brennan also reflects on his involvement with the ClimateBase fellowship and his aspirations for a sustainable future, encouraging others to become agents of change.

Takeaways

• Younger generations experience a spectrum of emotions about climate change.
• Community support is crucial for feeling empowered to advocate for change.
• Experiences in nature can shape a passion for environmental advocacy.
• Education plays a significant role in developing a service-oriented mindset.
• Dr. Bronner's is a leader in ethical sourcing and sustainability.
• B Corp certification helps ensure transparency in business practices.
• Authenticity in business is essential to combat greenwashing.
• The ClimateBase fellowship provides valuable insights into climate solutions.
• Future aspirations include living in a sustainable, car-free environment.
• Education is key for aspiring change-makers to take action.

Keywords

climate change, environmental advocacy, generational perspectives, sustainability, Dr. Bronner's, B Corp, ClimateBase, education, activism, future aspirations

Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple