Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
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The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement the 5 Phases of Teaching Outdoors, all while providing a new way of learning for your children! Studies have shown that children who learn outdoors in all seasons “develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative.” Victoria Hackett is the founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The CIRCLE Membership community, and The Secret Gardens Demonstration Outdoor Classroom. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, head on over to our virtual playground at outdoor-classrooms.com.

  1. 20 HRS AGO

    195: How Outdoor Classrooms Are Rewiring the Way We Think | The Nature Embedded Mind with Julie Brams

    🌿 How Outdoor Classrooms Are Rewiring the Way We Think: The Nature Embedded Mind with Julie Brams What if the way we think—and teach—could actually heal both ourselves and the planet? In this episode, I sit down with Julie Brams, author of The Nature Embedded Mind, to explore how a “nature embedded mind” can transform education, outdoor classrooms, and the way children—and adults—relate to the world around them. We dive into why outdoor classrooms aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re a powerful tool for reshaping thinking, fostering connection, and inspiring curiosity. Julie shares insights on how reconnecting with nature influences how we learn, play, and solve problems, and why this matters now more than ever. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: What a “nature embedded mind” really means and why it mattersHow outdoor classrooms can shape not just learning, but thinking itselfHow children naturally understand connection—and how educators can nurture itSimple ways teachers can bring this mindset into daily practiceWhy reconnecting with nature is key to healing ourselves and our planet This conversation is an invitation to step outside—literally and metaphorically—and see how thinking differently can open up new possibilities for teaching, learning, and living. 🌱 Julie Brams Resources & Links Learn more about Julie Brams and The Nature Embedded Mind HEREwww.experienceelemental.comIG @juliebramslmftFB Julie Brams LMFT- Psychotherapy & Insight Meditationjulieann.brams@experienceelemental.com Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

    48 min

  2. APR 14

    194: The Outdoor Classroom Is Already Beautiful: Noticing & Using What’s Around You

    🎙️ The Outdoor Classroom Is Already Beautiful: Noticing & Using What’s Around You🌿 After a trip to Ithaca, New York and its stunning waterfalls, I found myself reflecting on why nature feels so powerful when we travel—but so easy to overlook at home.In this episode, I explore how to bring that same sense of awe into our outdoor classrooms, no matter where we are. Because meaningful outdoor learning isn’t about the location—it’s about how we help students notice, slow down, and connect. ✨ In This Episode:Why awe matters in learningHow to reframe everyday outdoor spacesSimple ways to build noticing and wonder with students 💭 Key TakeawayThe magic isn’t in the place—it’s in the noticing. ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode?Follow, rate, and share to help more educators bring learning outside. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community:Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resources: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1 Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!

    14 min

  3. APR 7

    193: What If? Reimagining Education Through Play, Nature, and Outdoor Classrooms

    🎙️ What If? Reimagining Education Through Play, Nature, and Possibility🌿 Episode DescriptionWhat if we let children be children… a little longer? After returning from a guest speaking experience at Endicott College, this episode reflects on the power of play—not just in early childhood, but across all ages. Through storytelling, real classroom experiences, and thought-provoking questions, we explore what might be possible if we reimagined education through play, nature, and trust in development. What if reading instruction didn’t begin so early? What if every child had access to an outdoor classroom? What if future teachers were trained to teach beyond four walls? This is an invitation to pause, reflect, and consider a different path forward—one rooted in curiosity, connection, and the simple, powerful act of play. 🌱 In This Episode, We Explore:The experience of bringing play into a college classroomWhy play matters for older elementary students, adolescents, and adultsThe hesitation—and transformation—when adults are invited to playWhat we can learn from education systems in Norway and FinlandThe connection between outdoor learning, mental health, and engagementHow small shifts in teaching can create meaningful changeWhy play is not a break from learning—but the learning itself 🌍 Key TakeawaysPlay does not have an age limit—it is a lifelong human needOutdoor learning supports focus, resilience, and well-beingDelaying formal academics does not mean delaying successEducators don’t need to change everything—small moments matterReconnecting with play can transform both teaching and learning 🌼 Reflection QuestionsTake a moment to pause and reflect: What is one memory you have of playing outdoors as a child?When was the last time you experienced unstructured play?What might shift if you brought one small moment of play into your day?What is one “What if?” question you are holding about education? 🌿 Try ThisThis week, try one small step: Take a lesson or moment outsideOffer open-ended materials (sticks, stones, leaves)Allow space for curiosity to leadObserve what changes—both in yourself and others Subscribe & ShareIf you enjoyed this episode of Outdoor Classroom Podcast, be sure to subscribe and share it with a fellow educator, parent, or nature-loving friend. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators! Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    25 min

  4. MAR 31

    192: Behind the Pages: The Making of My Book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked

    Episode 192: Behind the Pages: The Making of Outdoor Classrooms UnlockedEver wonder what it takes to bring a book to life? In this episode, I take you behind the pages of my upcoming book, Outdoor Classrooms Unlocked: The 5 Phases of Confident Outdoor Teaching Across 4 Types of Teaching Gardens. I share the full journey—from the first spark of an idea, to writing and editing the manuscript, gathering feedback from early readers, and even selecting a cover that captures the heart of teaching outdoors. Along the way, you’ll hear stories, surprises, and reflections from my experience as an outdoor educator and author. We also explore how the 5 Phases of outdoor teaching and 4 types of teaching gardens shaped the structure and vision of the book, giving insight into not just what the book is, but how it grew and evolved over time. Whether you’re an educator, aspiring author, or just curious about the creative process, this episode offers a story-driven look at the making of a book, with lessons, reflections, and inspiration for anyone bringing an idea to life. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: How the book concept came to life and evolved over timeReflections on the manuscript editing processStories and feedback from early readersThe journey of designing the book cover and illustrationsInsights from the 5 Phases and 4 Teaching Gardens frameworkLessons learned as a teacher and author Links & Resources: Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource:  🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    22 min

  5. MAR 24

    191: Finding the Openings: What Sudoku Taught Me About Teaching Outdoors

    Over the past few months, I’ve been playing a lot of Sudoku. What began as a simple puzzle quickly became something much more meaningful. As I struggled through Easy puzzles and eventually unlocked the Master level, I began to notice something fascinating: the mindset needed to solve Sudoku is remarkably similar to the mindset needed to teach outdoors. Episode 191: Finding the Openings: What Sudoku Taught Me About Teaching Outdoors In this episode of Outdoor Classroom News, I explore the surprising parallels between solving puzzles and guiding children in nature. Both require patience, curiosity, experimentation, and the willingness to keep trying even when things don’t immediately make sense. Drawing from real moments in our Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature Classes, I share how children naturally approach learning the same way we approach puzzles—by noticing openings, testing ideas, and persisting through challenges. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to bring more outdoor learning into your work with children, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes the solution appears when we shift our perspective and take the next small step. In This EpisodeHow a simple Sudoku puzzle became a lesson in mindset and persistenceWhy “looking for openings” is a powerful strategy in outdoor educationStories from Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom Nature ClassesHow experimentation and curiosity fuel children’s learning in natureWhy persistence is one of the most valuable skills children develop outdoorsHow shifting perspective can unlock new possibilities in teaching and learning Reflection QuestionsAs you listen, consider these questions: Where are the “openings” in your classroom or outdoor space right now?What small experiment could you try with children this week?When have you seen persistence lead to a breakthrough in learning? Listener ChallengeThis week, try this simple practice: Notice an opening — a child’s curiosity, a seasonal change, or a moment of wonder in nature.Experiment — follow that curiosity and see where it leads.Persist — allow time for discovery and growth. Just like solving a puzzle, meaningful learning often happens one small step at a time. Subscribe & ShareIf you enjoyed this episode of Outdoor Classroom News, be sure to subscribe and share it with a fellow educator, parent, or nature-loving friend. And remember: The next breakthrough—whether in a puzzle or an outdoor classroom—may be just one opening away. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    24 min

  6. MAR 17

    190: Growing Wins: Celebrating Success in the Outdoor Classroom

    Growing Wins: Celebrating Success in the Outdoor ClassroomIn this episode, we explore the importance of celebrating our wins—big and small—and why pausing to acknowledge accomplishments can transform the way we approach life, learning, and growth. Drawing inspiration from outdoor classrooms, we reflect on how children celebrate curiosity, effort, and discovery, and how we can do the same in our own lives. From submitting a major project to noticing small everyday successes, celebration fuels motivation, joy, and self-confidence. Join me as we uncover practical ways to mark your achievements, connect with nature, and create intentional moments of recognition. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why celebration is essential for personal growth, resilience, and joy.Lessons from outdoor classrooms: how children naturally celebrate small successes—and what we can learn from them.Practical ways to celebrate wins, including reflection, rituals, shared joy, and connecting with nature.Fun and inspiring stories from outdoor classrooms and personal experiences.Reflection exercises to help you honor your accomplishments every day. Listener Takeaways / Reflection Prompts: Think of one win—big or small—that you haven’t fully celebrated yet. How does it feel to acknowledge it?Create a simple ritual to mark your achievements, like planting a “win seed” in your outdoor classroom or journaling a moment of pride.Share a success with someone else to amplify the joy. Quote to Inspire You: "Every plant in a garden gets sunlight, water, and attention. Every win in your life deserves the same." Celebrate with us and learn how pausing to honor progress can cultivate growth, joy, and resilience in your own life. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    20 min

  7. MAR 10

    189: CIRCLE Roundtable Reflections: What Happens When Educators Truly Belong

    Episode 189: CIRCLE Roundtable Reflections: What Happens When Educators Truly Belong In the middle of an East Coast blizzard, our monthly CIRCLE Roundtable began. Some logged in right on time. Others arrived late. One joined after watching a tree fall on her outdoor classroom. And still… they showed up. This episode reflects on that unusual night — and what it revealed about community, commitment, and belonging. CIRCLE isn’t a masterclass. There are no slides or lessons. It’s a space for support, laughter, honest conversation, and real relationship. In this episode, we explore: What it means to show up imperfectly Why educators need spaces where they aren’t performing How storms reveal culture The quiet power of gathering — even when things feel uncertain Who are you showing up for? And who is showing up for you? 🌱 Because when we cultivate gardens, we cultivate belonging. Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    21 min

  8. MAR 3

    188: Follow the Water: Story, Survival & Science in the Outdoor Classroom with Ellen Cochrane

    Episode 188: Follow the Water: Story, Survival & Science in the Outdoor Classroom with Ellen Cochrane What happens when a true survival story becomes a doorway into science, resilience, and deep connection to the natural world? In this episode, I’m joined by Ellen Cochrane, author of Follow the Water—the gripping true story of Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year-old who survived alone in the Amazon rainforest by following the river. Ellen writes immersive nonfiction that trusts young readers—their intelligence and their emotions. Together, we explore how powerful storytelling can live inside outdoor classrooms, how science becomes real through narrative, and how stories of survival invite children to see weather, rivers, and forests as teachers. This conversation weaves literacy, nature, and courage into one beautiful thread. 🌱 A portion of proceeds supports the Panguana Foundation. Meet Ellen: Ellen Cochrane writes immersive nonfiction for young readers that trusts their intelligence and their emotions. Her debut, “Follow the Water,” tells the true story of 17-year-old Juliane Koepcke’s survival in the Amazon. It’s an adventure that reads like a thriller and teaches how science lives in the world: weather, rivers, canopy, and the choices that keep us alive. A longtime middle school teacher of English, English learners, Spanish, and Russian, Ellen brings classroom clarity and compassion to complex topics. She studied science writing at Johns Hopkins, is a certified California Naturalist, and previously wrote a syndicated column exploring the natural world. As a teen exchange student she lived in Lima, Peru, and traveled the same route into the jungle that frames Juliane’s story. Contact Ellen: www.ellencochrane.com | Facebook: @CochraneEllen | Instagram: @EllenMCochrane | TikTok: @AuthorTalk Join the Outdoor Classrooms Community: Want to continue the conversation, access our workshop library, or collaborate with like-minded educators? 👉 Join the CIRCLE Membership and grow into a more confident, connected outdoor classroom leader. FREE Outdoor Classroom Resource: 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links: 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🎓 Outdoor Teaching Bootcamp 🎓 Seasonal Masterclass Bundle (includes Exploring Nature in Winter Masterclass) 🎓 Teaching Beyond Walls Capstone Course 🌸 CIRCLE Membership for Educators 🌿 30-Day Gratitude in Nature Challenge 🌸 1-hour Online Workshop Library Connect with Victoria: WEBSITE: www.outdoor-classrooms.com EMAIL: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram: instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/ Facebook: Facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1

    30 min
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About

The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast is the podcast for teachers and parents and anyone interested in cultivating learning gardens and nature-based curricula for children. It’s a show that will help you transform your outdoor space and will offer “seeds of inspiration” for playful learning outdoors. Each week, Victoria Hackett and her guests will share tips and actionable strategies that you will need in order to set in motion, manage and grow your Outdoor Classroom. You’ll learn how to implement the 5 Phases of Teaching Outdoors, all while providing a new way of learning for your children! Studies have shown that children who learn outdoors in all seasons “develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, and initiative.” Victoria Hackett is the founder of Outdoor-Classrooms.com, The CIRCLE Membership community, and The Secret Gardens Demonstration Outdoor Classroom. You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more, head on over to our virtual playground at outdoor-classrooms.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    196
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Victoria Hackett, M.Ed: Learning Gardens and Nature Based Curriculum
  • Show Website
    Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

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