Wildly Unplug

Lauren Connolly

Escape the Hustle. Wildly Unplug helps you break free from the chaos and reconnect with nature and yourself. Host Lauren Connolly—artist and naturalist—shares inspiring stories and actionable tips for embracing mindfulness, outdoor adventures, and intentional living. Each episode features guests like biologists, adventurers, and creatives, offering unique ways to find balance through art and nature. Tune in discover what develops when you get outside & unplug! Stay Wild!

  1. Maine Climbing with Noah

    2日前

    Maine Climbing with Noah

    Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Noah / Equinox Guiding Service: https://equinoxguidingservice.com Can rock climbing actually help you overcome fear? In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, I talk with Noah from Equinox Guiding Service about rock climbing, mountaineering, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can completely transform your mindset. Whether you’re afraid of heights or just feeling stuck in life, this  conversation breaks down how climbing teaches:  Confidence through small wins How to manage fear in real time Why you don’t need insane upper body strength to start  The mental side of outdoor adventure How nature helps you reset and reconnect We also talk about:  Climbing in Maine & Acadia Beginner gear and how to get started Ice climbing and environmental changes The psychology of risk, fear, and growth 🌿 About Wild Developments Studio: Helping you reconnect with nature through art, storytelling, and creative exploration. 🎧 Podcast: Wildly Unplugged 🎨 Art + Classes: (your links) 📩 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join ✨ Don’t forget to: 👍 Like 💬 Comment (Have you ever tried climbing?) 🔔 Subscribe for more nature, creativity, and adventure 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

    32分
  2. Wildly Rejected- Week Six Update

    4日前

    Wildly Rejected- Week Six Update

    Send us Fan Mail 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join Get Ashley's Tracker here: https://substack.com/home/post/p-184085682 WEEK SIX of the 1000 Rejections Challenge got messy… because this week’s theme is SCAMS. In this episode of Wildly Unplug, I share the uncomfortable side of being a creative online: pay-to-play art contests, questionable “opportunities,” fake-feeling validation, and learning when to walk away — even when dream collaborations are dangling in front of you. This week I dive into: 🎨 The “People’s Artist” competition controversy 🗽 The Times Square art exhibit rejection that turned into a $5,000 sales pitch 🚩 Why I turned DOWN a creator platform connected to brands like National Geographic 💔 The emotional difference between rejection and being manipulated 🧠 Why scams hit harder than honest rejection 🌿 The importance of trusting your gut as an artist I also share some hopeful moments from the week, including: ✨ Reaching out to Jeff Corwin to be on the podcast 📚 Submitting psychological thriller short stories 🎙️ Applying for the Women Who Podcast Awards 🖼️ A possible gallery opportunity in the Florida Keys If you are an artist, writer, podcaster, creative entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream online, this episode is a reminder that not every “yes” is worth accepting — and sometimes rejection is actually protection. 📍ABOUT WILDLY UNPLUG Wildly Unplug explores nature, creativity, conservation, storytelling, burnout recovery, and reconnecting with the world beyond the screen. Hosted by wildlife artist, conservation storyteller, and founder of Wild Developments Studio, Lauren Connolly. 🌿 Discover what develops when you unplug and step outdoors. 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

    15分
  3. 1,000 Rejections with Gabbie Carr

    5月6日

    1,000 Rejections with Gabbie Carr

    Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Gabby: Website: https://gracefullygabbie.my.canva.site Follow her journey: @gracefullygabby TikTok: @gabbys1000nos 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join What if rejection wasn’t something to avoid—but something to chase? In this episode of Wildly Unplug, I sit down with content creator Gabby (Gracefully Gabby), who went viral for her bold goal: getting 1,000 rejections. What started as a breaking point turned into a powerful mindset shift—one that’s changing how she approaches business, creativity, and life. If you’ve ever struggled with fear of rejection, impostor syndrome, or putting yourself out there as an artist, entrepreneur, or creative—this conversation will hit home. Gabby shares how actively seeking rejection helped her: -Build confidence and resilience -Land unexpected “yes” opportunities (including a trip to Italy!) -Reframe failure into forward momentum -Grow as a content creator, artist, and entrepreneur We also dive into: How to handle rejection as an artist or creative Why “no response” still counts as a no The emotional side of putting your work into the world Fear of success (yes, it’s real) How to stay motivated when nothing seems to be working The power of visibility and sharing your journey publicly As someone currently doing my own 1000 rejection challenge, this conversation felt especially personal—and might just inspire you to start your own. Because here’s the truth: - If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. 🌊 About the Podcast: Wildly Unplug shares stories of nature, creativity, and conservation, exploring what happens when we step away from the noise and reconnect with the wild. 🌿 Takeaway: Rejection isn’t the end—it’s proof you showed up. 🎧 Listen if you’re into: nature-inspired creativity, personal growth, artist mindset, entrepreneurship, overcoming fear, content creation, creative business, and building confidence 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

    32分
  4. Wildly Rejected- Week Five Update

    5月4日

    Wildly Rejected- Week Five Update

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Wildly Unplug, Lauren shares a real-time update from her 1000 Rejections Challenge—recorded fresh after a dentist visit (yes, novocain and all). What starts with burnt potato chips (the cover photo is not cookies 😅) turns into a deeper reflection on creative risk, momentum, and the unexpected wins that come from simply asking. Lauren opens up about something she almost didn’t share—reaching out to past podcast guests she recorded with over a year ago. What she expected to be awkward or even rejected turned into four meaningful yeses, proving that sometimes the biggest barriers are the ones we create ourselves. She also dives into: A shift in momentum—more acceptances than rejections (for now)Entering a magazine cover contest with one of her most “her” paintings yet—quintessentially Key WestA new personal rule for art submissions: create work that can live beyond the contestExploring a new creative lane with psychological thriller short stories—and possibly a full collectionThis episode is a reminder that growth doesn’t always look polished. Sometimes it looks like trying something new, burning the chips, and doing it anyway. If you’ve been holding back from putting your work out into the world, this is your nudge. Stay wild. 🌿 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

    10分
  5. Re-Nature with Clara Schroeder

    4月29日

    Re-Nature with Clara Schroeder

    Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Clara: Find her work, book, and resources here: 👉 https://www.claraschroeder.com/book 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join What if the reason we feel overwhelmed, burned out, or disconnected… is because we’ve lost our relationship with nature? In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, I sit down with ecotherapist and author Clara Schroeder to explore the powerful connection between mental health, nature, and sustainability. We dive into how disconnection from the natural world impacts our well-being—and how simple, intentional practices can help you reconnect, reduce anxiety, and find balance in a chaotic world. Whether you’re feeling burnt out, hit rock bottom, stuck in hustle culture, or overwhelmed by constant digital noise, this conversation will help you slow down, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters.  In This Episode, We Talk About: What ecotherapy is and how it helps with stress, anxiety, and burnout The link between mental health and nature connection How disconnection from nature contributes to eco anxiety & overwhelm Simple ways to reconnect with nature (even in a city!) How to create a healthier work-life balance The impact of technology, AI, and “doom scrolling” on your nervous system Why slowing down and being present can transform your life Real stories of healing through nature, wildlife, and mindfulness Why This Matters: We live in a world of constant stimulation—emails, notifications, and endless scrolling. This episode is a reminder that nature is always available as a tool for healing, creativity, and clarity. You don’t need a big adventure. You just need to start noticing.  Who This Episode Is For: Anyone experiencing burnout or stress Creatives looking to reconnect with inspiration Nature lovers & conservation-minded individuals People curious about mindfulness, ecotherapy, or mental wellness Anyone feeling overwhelmed by modern life and seeking balance Key Takeaway: Reconnecting with nature doesn’t have to mean hiking mountains or traveling far. It can be as simple as noticing the sky, listening to birds, or stepping outside with intention. 🎧 About Wildly Unplug Wildly Unplug shares stories of nature, conservation, creativity, and human connection—helping you rediscover what develops when you unplug and step outdoors. If you enjoyed this episode, check out more conversations on: ✨ Nature journaling ✨ Wildlife art & conservation ✨ Creative ways to unplug and reconnect  Don’t Forget: ✔️ Subscribe for more nature + creativity content ✔️ Share this with someone who needs to unplug ✔️ Leave a review—it helps more people find the podcast Support the show

    48分
  6. Wildly Rejected- Week Four Update

    4月27日

    Wildly Rejected- Week Four Update

    Send us Fan Mail Week 4 of the 1000 Rejections Challenge brought an unexpected shift—not in results, but in mindset. This week, Lauren reflects on entering the Montgomery Photography Contest, an event she’s participated in for years. While this year didn’t result in a win, it marked a powerful personal breakthrough. Instead of stress, comparison, and frustration, she found herself relaxed, present, and genuinely cheering on other artists. In this episode, Lauren shares what it feels like to move from needing validation to embracing the process, how redefining rejection is changing her experience, and why some outcomes still feel like a mystery. She also discusses her decision to count each paid submission as its own rejection—and what that reveals about opportunity, risk, and growth. With several major grant applications, Ranger Rick article idea, and children's book submitted this week, the challenge continues to push boundaries and expand what feels possible. If you’ve ever struggled with rejection, comparison, or trying to “figure out what judges want,” this episode is for you. 🎙️ Wildly Unplug is a podcast about reconnecting with nature, creativity, and yourself through storytelling, conservation, and exploration. 👉 Follow along with the full “1000 Rejections” journey and weekly updates on Substack. And until next time… unplug, get outside, and see what develops. 🌿 Get Ashley's Tracker here: https://substack.com/home/post/p-184085682  Subscribe for more nature + creativity inspiration Like & comment: What’s one small moment you can celebrate today? 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join Support the show

    11分
  7. Isaac and the Sky with Mark Benson

    4月22日

    Isaac and the Sky with Mark Benson

    Send us Fan Mail 🔭 Where to Find Mark Website: https://authormarkbenson.com Instagram: @waysidewriter 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join What happens when grief meets the cosmos?  In this episode of Wildly Unplug, I sit down with author and NASA Solar System Ambassador Mark Benson to explore space, storytelling, healing, and human connection. We dive into his novel, Isaac and the Sky—a story that blends astronomy, loss, and identity—and unpack how looking at something as vast as the universe can help us process something as intimate as grief. But this conversation goes far beyond the book… We talk about: How stargazing and nature can help us reconnect with ourselves The surprising ways creative tools (like telescopes, sketchbooks, and writing) help us heal What it’s really like to be a NASA ambassador The truth about light pollution—and how it affects wildlife, humans, and our ability to see the stars Why space is actually an extension of nature itself Behind-the-scenes insights into Project Hail Mary and what science fiction gets right (and wrong) We also explore a powerful idea: That we often live as side characters in other people’s stories… …and how we can step into being the main character of our own life. If you’ve ever felt the pull to slow down, look up, and reconnect with something bigger, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Healing doesn’t always come from looking inward—it can come from looking outward You don’t need a grand adventure to reconnect with nature—just step outside and look up Creativity and curiosity are powerful tools for processing life’s hardest moments 🎧 About Wildly Unplug Wildly Unplug shares stories of nature, conservation, creativity, and human connection—helping you rediscover what develops when you unplug and step outdoors. Support the show

    58分
  8. Wildly Rejected- Week Three Update

    4月18日

    Wildly Rejected- Week Three Update

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when the excitement wears off… and the waiting begins? In this Week 3 update of the “Wildly Rejected a.k.a. Becoming the Bison” Lauren steps fully into the storm—where the “no’s” start to outweigh the “yeses,” and most opportunities sit in the uncomfortable space of maybe.  This episode dives into the part of the journey no one talks about: The emotional shift from excitement to enduranceWhy rejection starts to feel… normalHow “no” doesn’t kill an idea—it redirects itThe hidden weight of waiting (and why it’s actually the hardest part)Lauren shares the story behind this week’s cover image—a baby raccoon photographed in Hocking Hills State Park—and how sometimes the most meaningful moments don’t win awards, but still shape everything. Plus, a powerful mindset shift that reframes the entire rejection process: 👉 You don’t gain rejections by asking—you reduce the infinite “no’s” that already exist. Week 3 Stats: 44 asks | 5 yeses | 7 rejections | and a growing list of “in review” If you’re in a season where nothing feels certain, where responses are slow, and where momentum feels quiet—this episode is your reminder: This is the part where most people stop… and where things actually begin. 🎧 And a surprise highlight—Lauren interviews Gabby Carr, the creator of the 1000 Rejection Challenge (episode coming soon!). 🎙️ Wildly Unplug is a podcast about reconnecting with nature, creativity, and yourself through storytelling, conservation, and exploration. 👉 Follow along with the full “1000 Rejections” journey and weekly updates on Substack. And until next time… unplug, get outside, and see what develops. 🌿 Get Ashley's Tracker here: https://substack.com/home/post/p-184085682  Subscribe for more nature + creativity inspiration Like & comment: What’s one small moment you can celebrate today? 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join Support the show

    9分

番組について

Escape the Hustle. Wildly Unplug helps you break free from the chaos and reconnect with nature and yourself. Host Lauren Connolly—artist and naturalist—shares inspiring stories and actionable tips for embracing mindfulness, outdoor adventures, and intentional living. Each episode features guests like biologists, adventurers, and creatives, offering unique ways to find balance through art and nature. Tune in discover what develops when you get outside & unplug! Stay Wild!