Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild

Vian Sharif
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Nature
  • Updated Biweekly

Wild By Nature is a podcast exploring how the natural world shapes our mental health, creativity, identity, wellbeing, leadership, and human connection. In a world that rarely slows down, many of us feel disconnected — from nature, from community, and from ourselves. Through thoughtful conversations and deeply human storytelling, Wild By Nature brings together scientists, environmental thinkers, authors, creatives, wellness experts, and changemakers to explore the powerful relationship between people and the natural world. Hosted by storyteller and thought leader Vian Sharif, the podcast was inspired by a transformative experience in Kenya where reconnecting with nature brought a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and perspective. That journey sparked a deeper exploration into how nature influences the way we live, think, heal, create, and lead. Each episode translates big ideas around: • Nature & Mental Health • Environmental Science & Psychology • Creativity & Mindfulness • Leadership & Human Behavior • Connection, Belonging & Wellbeing • Ecology, Identity & Personal Growth …into meaningful, accessible conversations listeners can apply to everyday life. Whether you're navigating burnout, searching for deeper connection, seeking inspiration, or simply longing to slow down, Wild By Nature offers space to reconnect — with the Earth, with others, and with yourself. Follow Wild By Nature on Apple podcasts or your podcast platform, leave a rating and review, and subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes and conversations. New episodes every other Thursday. PARTNER WITH US Support the stories. Deepen the connection. Help us bring more stories of human connection to the wild to life. For individual support and corporate partnership inquiries, visit https://wildbynaturepodcast.app/#partnerships or email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com

  1. Oct 15 ·  Video

    Can Business, Profit and Nature Coexist? with Nick Hough-Robbins

    Can businesses make money while protecting nature? NatureAlpha CEO Nick Hough-Robbins joins Dr. Vian Sharif to explore how business, technology, and environmental conservation can work together. Every business depends on nature, whether through the water it uses, the land it occupies, or the resources behind the products we rely on. Yet the natural world has long been overlooked in some of our most important financial decisions. In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif welcomes Nick Hough-Robbins, CEO of NatureAlpha, the nature intelligence company she founded. Together, they've spent years working to bring nature into the heart of financial decision-making. Now, they take that conversation beyond the boardroom to explore a bigger question: Can businesses be successful while also protecting the natural world? Nick shares how childhood summers spent beside a stream in the British countryside shaped his lifelong connection to nature, and how a career in technology and data eventually led him to one of the world's most complex challenges: helping businesses understand their dependence on the living planet. Their conversation travels from threatened olive groves in southern Italy to the Amazon rainforest, which revealed the environmental footprint of mining. In Namibia, Nick recalls an extraordinary experience witnessing how a former diamond mining site had been restored, offering a different vision of what responsible business might look like. Along the way, they explore how artificial intelligence is making nature's hidden value visible, why investors are beginning to recognize the financial risks of environmental degradation, and how restoring rivers and forests can protect both communities and economies. But beyond the technology and economics lies something deeply human: our relationship with the natural world and our responsibility to the generations who will inherit it. In This Episode, We Explore Why nature matters to every business: How water, soil, forests, and biodiversity underpin the products, services, and economies we depend on. A lifelong relationship with the outdoors: The childhood experiences that shaped Nick's connection to nature and the places he returns to for perspective. The hidden financial cost of environmental degradation: Why declining ecosystems create real risks for companies, investors, and communities. Artificial intelligence and the natural world: How NatureAlpha is using AI and geospatial data to help reveal the environmental risks associated with business operations. The power of nature-based solutions: How restoring rivers and natural landscapes can help reduce flooding and protect infrastructure. A different approach to mining: What Nick's experience in Namibia revealed about environmental responsibility and the possibility of restoration. Redefining business success: Why future generations may judge today's businesses by how they managed the natural resources on which prosperity depends. Connect and Learn More NatureAlpha — Nature Intelligence and Risk Analytics Meet the NatureAlpha Team About the guest Nick Hough Robbins is CEO of NatureAlpha. His background spans enterprise technology and data strategy, including work in Shell's new energies business. At NatureAlpha, he helps build technology that enables businesses and investors to understand nature-related risks. EXPLORE THE CONVERSATION NatureAlpha https://www.naturealpha.ai/ AlphaX — Explore the platform discussed in the episode. https://alphax.ai/ NatureAlpha articles and insights https://www.naturealpha.ai/articles FOLLOW, RATE & SHARE Follow Wild by Nature for more conversations at the intersection of nature, science, and human potential. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wild-by-nature-stories-of-human-connection-to-the-wild/id1895871367 Listen and follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/523LALr8BxVn21ane1rXYQ Subscribe and watch full episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WildByNaturePodcast If this conversation resonated with you, leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, drop a comment on Spotify or YouTube, and share the episode with someone who would enjoy it. CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE Website: https://wildbynaturepodcast.app/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast/ Have a guest or topic you'd love us to explore? Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com HELP WILD BY NATURE GROW Believe in what we're building? Help Wild by Nature bring more stories of human connection with the natural world to audiences around the world—by sharing the series, connecting us with like-minded partners, or supporting our independent production. For partnership and support inquiries: www.wildbynaturepodcast/partnerships wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com

  2. Oct 1 ·  Video

    What Nature Can Teach Leaders with Jochen Zeitz

    What if some of the most important lessons about leadership aren't found in a boardroom—but in nature? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif sits down with business leader, conservationist and philanthropist Jochen Zeitz to explore how nature has shaped the way he thinks about leadership, business, responsibility and success. Jochen shares how childhood weekends spent in the forests of Germany and a fascination with Africa developed into a lifelong relationship with the natural world. He recalls a pivotal moment early in his career at PUMA, when witnessing pollution and poor conditions at a factory in Asia forced him to confront the environmental consequences of business—and his own responsibility as a leader. The conversation travels to Segera Conservancy in Kenya, where Jochen has spent more than two decades helping restore a landscape once depleted of much of its wildlife. Today, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs and other species have returned, while the critically endangered black rhino has been reintroduced after decades of absence. Through that experience, Jochen discovered that conservation cannot succeed by protecting wildlife alone. Communities, culture and economic opportunity must be part of the equation—a philosophy that became his 4Cs: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce. And nature, he says, offers lessons that extend far beyond conservation. Unlike traditional models of endless growth, nature operates through cycles, seasons, regeneration and resilience. It teaches patience, interconnectedness and the importance of thinking long term. Ultimately, this is a conversation about more than leadership. It is about remembering something modern life can make easy to forget: we are not separate from nature. We are part of it. IN THIS EPISODE The childhood experiences that shaped Jochen's connection to nature Why Africa captured his imagination at an early age The factory visit that changed how he viewed corporate responsibility Restoring Segera Conservancy and watching wildlife return The emotional reintroduction of the critically endangered black rhino Why conservation must benefit local communities The 4Cs: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce What nature teaches us about patience, resilience and leadership Why endless growth is different from the cycles we see in nature Measuring the environmental impact of business How businesses can reduce their footprint on the natural world What modern society may have lost in separating itself from nature Why stories can inspire action in ways facts alone sometimes cannot Where Jochen finds hope for the future What nature has taught him about being human ABOUT THE GUEST Jochen Zeitz is a business leader, conservationist and philanthropist whose career has been shaped by the belief that business, people and nature are deeply interconnected. He became Chairman and CEO of PUMA at age 30, leading the company's transformation and pioneering new ways to measure business's impact on nature, including its Environmental Profit & Loss approach. He later led Kering's Sport & Lifestyle division and served as President, CEO and Chairman of Harley-Davidson. Alongside his business career, Jochen has spent more than two decades working to restore and protect natural landscapes. He is the founder and chair of the ZEITZ foundation and founder of Segera Conservancy in Kenya, a 50,000-acre wildlife refuge where degraded land has been restored, wildlife has returned, and the Eastern black rhino was reintroduced in 2025 after more than 50 years of absence. His work at Segera helped shape his 4Cs philosophy: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce—a model based on the idea that protecting nature works best when wildlife, local communities, culture and sustainable economic opportunity can thrive together. Jochen is also co-founder of The B Team and founder of The Long Run, extending these ideas globally through efforts to connect business, conservation and long-term stewardship of the natural world. A THOUGHT TO TAKE WITH YOU Nature doesn't measure success by endless growth. It moves through cycles of growth, disruption, recovery and renewal. And perhaps leadership can work the same way—not simply asking how much more we can build, but what we can restore, strengthen and leave behind for others. As Jochen tells Vian, being human means recognizing that we are not the only characters in the story. We are part of a much larger whole. LEARN MORE Jochen Zeitz Zeitz Foundation https://zeitzfoundation.org/ Segera Conservancy https://www.segera.com/ The Long Run https://www.thelongrun.org/ The B Team https://bteam.org/ CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE Wild by Nature — Stories of Human Connection to the Wild Hosted by Dr. Vian Sharif Website: https://wildbynaturepodcast.app/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WildbyNaturePodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wild-by-nature/id1895871367 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2F5B8E9xHsQgYFVE7dQUZk PARTNER WITH WILD BY NATURE Wild by Nature works with select organizations and brands aligned with our exploration of nature, human connection and the natural world. Explore partnership opportunities →https://wildbynaturepodcast.app/#partnerships FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW If this conversation made you think differently about leadership, nature or the impact each of us can have, follow Wild by Nature and share the episode with someone who might enjoy it. Ratings and reviews help more people discover stories about our connection to the natural world. LISTEN NEXT Reconnect With Nature & Purpose: The Enlightened Bottom Line with Jenna Nicholas For the connection between nature, purpose, leadership and better business decisions. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reconnect-with-nature-purpose-the-enlightened-bottom/id1895871367?i=1000772234423 Why Nature Is the Foundation of Our Economy with Marc Palahí For the bigger-picture connection between nature, business and the economic systems we all depend on. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-nature-is-the-foundation-of-our-economy-with/id1895871367?i=1000774139939

  3. Sep 17 ·  Video

    Why Children Need Nature More Than Ever with Ernesto Rodriguez

    What if simply looking up at a canopy of trees could help children feel calmer, focus better, and reconnect with the natural world? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif sits down with Ernesto Rodriguez, founder of Nature in the Classroom, a nonprofit transforming learning environments by bringing immersive tree canopy installations into schools. A former school psychologist, park ranger, award-winning photographer, and certified interpretive naturalist, Ernesto shares how decades of research inspired a simple but profound idea: helping children experience the restorative effects of nature—even when they can't go outside. From the science of Attention Restoration Theory to inspiring stories from classrooms, hospitals, and even juvenile detention facilities, this conversation explores how reconnecting with nature may be one of the most powerful tools we have for improving mental health, learning, and human connection. In This Episode Why modern children are experiencing an unprecedented "nature disconnect" The science behind Attention Restoration Theory How viewing trees—even photographs of trees—can reduce stress and improve focus The surprising research behind the 3-30-300 Rule Why millions of children learn in classrooms without windows How Nature in the Classroom transforms ceilings into living tree canopies The connection between green spaces and improved mental health Ernesto's remarkable journey from school psychologist to photographer, park ranger, and nonprofit founder How photography, psychology, and conservation unexpectedly came together The profound wilderness experience that changed Ernesto's life forever Why children instinctively respond to nature How hospitals, schools, and correctional facilities are using nature imagery to improve wellbeing What neuroscience tells us about why our brains crave natural environments Practical ways schools and families can reconnect children with nature Stories You'll Hear A kindergarten student's unforgettable explanation of how a tree canopy mural made her feel. How a California school created calming spaces for students struggling with post-pandemic anxiety. The remarkable improvements seen after tree canopy installations were introduced into a school for incarcerated teenagers. Ernesto's life-changing wilderness experience in Yellowstone that forever changed how he understood humanity's relationship with nature. How a visit to a hospital inspired work that has since reached thousands of healthcare facilities around the world. About Ernesto Rodriguez Ernesto Rodriguez is a school psychologist, photographer, entrepreneur, and nature advocate dedicated to improving well-being through nature. After serving at U.S. State Department schools in Colombia and Saudi Arabia, he founded ER Photo, with work featured in the MoMA Curator's Collection and exhibited at the Smithsonian. He later founded SereneView®, whose evidence-based nature scene privacy curtains are used in more than 3,500 hospitals worldwide, and Nature In The Classroom®, a nonprofit bringing nature-inspired learning environments to over 10,000 students across 20 school districts in nine states. Today, Ernesto is a park ranger and interpretive naturalist on California's Catalina Island, where he continues sharing the restorative power of nature through education and storytelling. Resources Mentioned Nature in the Classroom https://natureintheclassroom.org Learn more about Ernesto's nonprofit, classroom installations, educator resources, research library, and ways to support bringing nature into schools. Research & Scientists Dr. Roger Ulrich Pioneer in evidence-based healthcare design whose landmark studies showed that views of nature can improve patient recovery. https://naturesacred.org/researcher/roger-ulrich-phd/ Dr. Marc Berman Neuroscientist whose work explores how natural environments improve cognition, memory, attention, and mental wellbeing.  https://psychology.uchicago.edu/directory/marc-g-berman Dr. Richard Taylor Leading researcher on fractals and the neurological benefits of natural patterns.  https://psychology.uoregon.edu/profile/richardt/ Learn More North American Association for Environmental Education https://naaee.org Catalina Island Conservancy https://catalinaconservancy.org Connect with Wild by Nature If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Wild by Nature wherever you listen to podcasts. If this episode inspired you, share it with an educator, school leader, parent, healthcare professional, or anyone interested in the intersection of nature, education, psychology, and human wellbeing. Sometimes changing a child's future begins with something as simple as helping them look up. 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com. 📸 Instagram: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast ▶️ YouTube: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.youtube.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 🎵 TikTok: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Wild By Nature Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast 🎧 Apple Podcasts: Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild Apple Podcasts 📧 Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com Website: wildbynaturepodcast.com If this conversation resonates with you, listen next to one of our most popular episodes: "Nature as Medicine: The Science of Forest Bathing" with Gary Evans. Gary explores what science reveals about nature's effects on stress, the brain and the body. Together, these episodes make a compelling case: connection with nature isn't an optional extra. It is fundamental to human health—from childhood through adulthood.

  4. Sep 3 ·  Video

    Finding the Wild in the City with Neha Sinha

    What if the wild isn't somewhere far away—but right outside your front door? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif is joined by conservation biologist, nature writer, and WWF India conservation leader Neha Sinha. Together they explore how cities are living ecosystems filled with birds, insects, native plants, and hidden stories that most of us simply overlook. Drawing from her book My Wild City, Neha explains why paying attention to the natural world isn't just good for conservation—it can transform our mental wellbeing, restore patience, deepen our sense of belonging, and reconnect us with the wonder we often lose as adults. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, notice more, and rediscover the extraordinary wildlife woven into everyday urban life. In This Episode Why the wild exists in every city—even if we no longer notice it How childhood experiences in nature shaped Neha's life and career Why storytelling can inspire conservation more effectively than facts alone The disappearance of vultures and sparrows—and what "shifting baselines" mean How COVID changed the way many people experienced urban nature Why the smallest plants and insects may hold the biggest lessons about resilience Patience as a superpower learned through birdwatching The connection between attention, care, and conservation Can humans "rewild" themselves? Creating wildlife habitat with native plants—even on a balcony The challenges women face working in conservation How inclusive communities make nature more accessible for everyone Practical ways anyone can begin reconnecting with nature today   Resources Mentioned Learn More : About Neha Sinha Official Website: https://nehasinha.in WWF India Profile: https://www.wwfindia.org/about_wwf/our_team/ Books My Wild City by Neha Sinha https://www.chelseagreen.com/product/my-wild-city/ Wild and Wilful by Neha Sinha https://harpercollins.co.in/product/wild-and-wilful/ Feral by George Monbiot https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/F/bo19341756.html B raiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer https://milkweed.org/book/braiding-sweetgrass Robert Macfarlane's Books https://www.robertmacfarlane.com/books/ Nature Identification Apps : These free apps make it easy to begin identifying birds, plants, insects, and other wildlife wherever you are. Merlin Bird ID https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org eBird https://ebird.org iNaturalist https://www.inaturalist.org Organizations WWF India https://www.wwfindia.org Cornell Lab of Ornithology https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/ Featured Conservation Destination Okonjima Nature Reserve (Namibia), mentioned by Dr. Vian Sharif during the conversation, is internationally recognized for leopard conservation and wildlife research. https://okonjima.com Key Takeaways Nature isn't confined to national parks or remote wilderness. It exists in neighborhoods, city parks, roadside trees, balconies, and even the smallest patches of native vegetation. Observation is the first step toward conservation. Before people protect nature, they must first learn to see it. Urban wildlife offers more than ecological value—it provides perspective, resilience, and opportunities for healing in an increasingly busy world. Rewilding doesn't always require traveling somewhere extraordinary. Sometimes it begins by slowing down, paying attention, and noticing the living world that's already around us. Connect with Wild by Nature If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Wild by Nature on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover conversations exploring humanity's relationship with the natural world. Share this episode with someone who could use a reminder that the wild may be much closer than they think. 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com. Connect with Wild By Nature 📸 Instagram: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast ▶️ YouTube: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.youtube.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 🎵 TikTok: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Wild By Nature Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast 🎧 Apple Podcasts: Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild Apple Podcasts 📧 Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com If this conversation inspired you, please help us grow the Wild By Nature community. 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com.

  5. Aug 20 ·  Video

    Building Trust to Heal Nature with Serena Oppenheim

    What if the biggest breakthrough for nature isn't a new technology—but a better conversation? In this episode of Wild By Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif speaks with Serena Oppenheim, founder of Fin-Erth, about why trust, relationships, and meaningful human connection may be the missing ingredients in solving the climate and biodiversity crisis. Serena shares her unexpected journey from developing some of Scotland's earliest wind farms to creating Fin-Erth, a global community that brings together leaders across finance, business, policy, technology, and conservation to accelerate climate and nature solutions. Along the way, she reflects on the moments that transformed her perspective—from watching alpine glaciers disappear to attending a dinner that revealed how climate change could reshape the foods we eat. Together, Serena and Vian explore what leadership can learn from nature, why optimism is essential, how collaboration unlocks capital for environmental solutions, and why trust—not transactions—is the foundation for meaningful progress. This conversation is an inspiring reminder that solving complex global challenges begins by bringing the right people together. In This Episode: Serena's unexpected path to founding Fin-Erth How family meals inspired a philosophy of connection and collaboration Witnessing climate change through retreating glaciers The dinner that changed Serena's understanding of biodiversity loss Why traditional conferences often fail to create meaningful relationships Breaking down silos between finance, technology, policy, and conservation Why trust is essential for unlocking climate finance Lessons leadership can learn from nature's resilience How Fin-Erth has sparked real-world partnerships and investment Finding hope through communities of people creating solutions Recommended Reading Messy: How to Be Creative and Resilient in a Tidy-Minded World by Tim Harford https://timharford.com/books/messy/ During the conversation, Serena recommends Messy as a book that influenced her thinking about innovation, collaboration, and why breakthrough ideas often emerge from unexpected, "messy" interactions between people from different disciplines. The book explores how creativity, resilience, and innovation frequently flourish in environments that embrace complexity rather than rigid order. About Serena Oppenheim Serena Oppenheim is the founder of Fin-Erth, a global community connecting leaders across finance, business, technology, policy, and conservation to accelerate investment in nature and climate solutions. Through curated dinners, forums, and the Fin-Erth Climate Awards, she helps build trusted relationships that unlock collaboration, innovation, and capital for a more resilient future. Serena previously worked in renewable energy, including developing some of Scotland's early wind farms, and has become a recognized convener at the intersection of climate, finance, and leadership. About Wild By Nature Wild By Nature explores the relationship between people and the natural world through conversations with scientists, entrepreneurs, conservationists, investors, and changemakers shaping a more resilient future. Hosted by Dr. Vian Sharif, the podcast examines how nature influences leadership, innovation, wellbeing, and the decisions that will define our collective future. If this conversation inspired you, please help us grow the Wild By Nature community. 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com. Connect with Wild By Nature📸 Instagram: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast ▶️ YouTube: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.youtube.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 🎵 TikTok: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Wild By Nature Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast 🎧 Apple Podcasts: Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild Apple Podcasts 📧 Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com

  6. Aug 6 ·  Video

    What Birds Can Teach Us About Attention, Wonder and Living with John Farnsworth

    What if the greatest gift in modern life isn't productivity, efficiency, or technology—but attention? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif sits down with environmental writer, educator, and author John Farnsworth to explore the transformative practice of "deep birding"—a way of engaging with birds that goes far beyond species identification. Together, they examine how birds can become teachers of curiosity, wonder, humility, and presence. Through stories from decades spent observing birds in wild places, John reveals how paying closer attention to the natural world can sharpen our minds, deepen our sense of connection, and help us embrace uncertainty in a culture that prizes certainty. The conversation explores why wonder begins where expertise ends, how birding can improve cognitive health and neuroplasticity, and why the loss of more than three billion birds in North America should concern all of us. At its heart, this episode is not simply about birds. It is about learning to see. To notice. To listen. And to rediscover our place within the living world. In This Episode Why attention may be one of the most valuable skills of modern life The difference between traditional birding and "deep birding" How birds teach us curiosity, observation, and wonder Why certainty can limit discovery The surprising connection between birding and brain health What scientists are learning about birding and neuroplasticity The story of the surf scoter and the mysteries science still can't explain Learning to stop chasing nature and let nature come to you Patch birding and developing relationships with local ecosystems Why common birds deserve as much appreciation as rare species The role birds play in healthy ecosystems The loss of more than three billion birds in North America Why conservation must become part of the birding practice Humility, resilience, and what birds can teach us about living well Key Takeaways Attention is a practice. Like any skill, attention can be strengthened through observation, curiosity, and reflection. Wonder lives beyond certainty. Many of nature's most fascinating mysteries remain unanswered, inviting us into deeper exploration rather than simple explanations. Birds benefit us in profound ways. Research suggests that advanced birding may contribute to cognitive health and help maintain mental sharpness as we age. Birds need our attention now. Despite their remarkable resilience, North American bird populations have declined by more than three billion birds in recent decades, making conservation more important than ever. The natural world is constantly telling stories. The question is whether we slow down enough to notice them.   About John Farnsworth John Seibert Farnsworth was a founding member of the Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences at Santa Clara University, where he taught a range of courses in environmental writing and literature. His graduate studies focused on literary natural history, and included master's degrees from Antioch University and Stanford, and a PhD from the University of Stirling, in Scotland. Dr. Farnsworth's most recent books are: Nature Beyond Solitude: Notes from the Field; Coves of Departure: Field Notes from the Sea of Cortes, and Reading Nature: The Evolution of American Nature Writing. He is currently working on a book about deep birding, as well as a memoir about learning new ecosystems. Dr. Farnsworth's volunteer activities focus on wildlife conservation, and he will soon begin a term as chair of Washington State's Wildlife Diversity Advisory Council. Books by John Farnsworth: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07DB8Z1B2/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=b57f1221-db22-4ecb-b369-a2006ca1a67c&ccs_id=56e1596e-a0b0-42f6-8746-5d39512fe0e0 Additional ResourcesBird species information referenced for listener education: California Condor https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/California_Condor/overview Great Blue Heron https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Blue_Heron Turkey Vulture https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Turkey_Vulture American Robin https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Robin Surf Scoter https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Surf_Scoter Short-eared Owl https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Short-eared_Owl Northern Harrier https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Harrier Olive sided Flycatcher https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Olive-sided_Flycatcher Bird species resources provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Birds project, one of the world's leading sources for bird identification, behavior, and conservation information. Connect With Wild by Nature Follow Wild by Nature for conversations exploring human connection to the natural world through science, storytelling, ecology, conservation, and wonder. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from slowing down, looking closer, and paying attention.

  7. Jul 23 ·  Video

    Finding Belonging in Nature with Rue Mapp

    In a world facing rising loneliness, division, and disconnection, where do we find belonging? In this episode of Wild by Nature, host Vian Sharif sits down with author, activist, and Outdoor Afro founder Rue Mapp to explore how nature can become one of our most powerful tools for connection—not only to the natural world, but to each other. Rue shares the remarkable story of growing up on her family's ranch in California, where hospitality, community, and outdoor experiences shaped her understanding of belonging. She explains how those early lessons inspired the creation of Outdoor Afro, a movement that has helped thousands of people reconnect with nature, confidence, joy, and community. Together, Vian and Rue discuss why nature is far more than recreation. From campfires and family traditions to mountaineering adventures and transformative outdoor experiences, they explore how the outdoors can help us build resilience, deepen relationships, overcome fear, and discover who we truly are. Rue also shares the powerful story behind her book, Nature Swagger, and why representation, invitation, and confidence matter when helping people reconnect with the natural world. Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or someone searching for a greater sense of connection, this conversation offers a compelling reminder that nature welcomes us all. In This Episode Why belonging begins with feeling welcomed How Outdoor Afro is changing who we may imagine belongs outdoors The role of nature in addressing loneliness and social disconnection What "deep hanging out" teaches us about community Lessons from mountaineering, wilderness, and trusting yourself The story behind Nature Swagger How nature helps us connect across differences Why shared outdoor experiences create lifelong friendships What the natural world teaches us about humility, courage, and humanity Memorable Quote "Nature neutralizes all the things that separate us and reminds us what it means to simply be human." — Rue Mapp About Rue Mapp Rue Mapp is the founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro, a nationally recognized organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. She is the author of Nature Swagger: Stories of Finding Confidence, Connection, and Joy in the Outdoors and has spent more than a decade helping expand access, representation, and belonging in outdoor spaces. Through storytelling, community building, and outdoor leadership, she has helped thousands of people reconnect with nature—and with each other. Connect with Rue Mapp Website: https://ruemapp.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruemapp/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruemapp/ Learn more about Outdoor Afro: https://outdoorafro.com Connect with Wild by Nature If you enjoyed this conversation 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com. 📸 Instagram: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast ▶️ YouTube: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.youtube.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 🎵 TikTok: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Wild By Nature Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast 📧 Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com Website: wildbynaturepodcast.com

  8. Jul 9 ·  Video

    Forest Therapy, Stress Reduction & Human Connection with Amos Clifford

    What happens when we stop rushing through nature—and finally allow ourselves to truly experience it? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif speaks with renowned forest therapy guide and author Amos Clifford, founder of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), about the transformative practice of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) and the growing science behind nature connection. Drawing from decades of experience as a wilderness guide, psychotherapist, and teacher, Amos explains why forest bathing is far more than a walk in the woods. By slowing down, engaging our senses, and becoming fully present, we open ourselves to restoration, clarity, and a deeper relationship with the living world. Together, Vian and Amos explore the Japanese roots of Shinrin-yoku, the research linking nature to reduced stress and improved well-being, and the powerful idea that "the forest is the therapist; the guide opens the doors." They discuss how simple invitations—not instructions—can foster healing, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of connection. Whether you're seeking greater calm, resilience, or a more meaningful relationship with nature, this conversation offers practical wisdom and timeless insight. In This Episode What forest bathing is—and how it differs from hiking The origins of Shinrin-yoku The science behind nature, stress reduction, and well-being Why slowing down is essential for healing "The forest is the therapist" Nature as a path to presence, clarity, and connection How forest therapy transforms the way we relate to ourselves and the natural worldd train forest therapy guides around the world and has introduced thousands of people to the benefits of nature connection. Learn more: https://anft.earth/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/natureandforesttherapy/ Books by M. Amos Clifford: https://anft.earth/resources/ CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WildByNaturePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com Connect with Wild by Nature If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Wild by Nature wherever you listen to podcasts. If this episode inspired you, share it with an educator, school leader, parent, healthcare professional, or anyone interested in the intersection of nature, education, psychology, and human wellbeing. Sometimes changing a child's future begins with something as simple as helping them look up. 🌿 Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—it helps others discover these conversations. 📲 Share this episode with someone who believes people and nature are deeply connected. 🎙️ Watch the full video on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments. 💌 Have an idea for a future guest or topic? We'd love to hear from you at wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com. 📸 Instagram: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.instagram.com/wildbynaturepodcast ▶️ YouTube: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.youtube.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 🎵 TikTok: @wildbynaturepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@wildbynaturepodcast 💼 LinkedIn: Wild By Nature Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/company/wild-by-nature-podcast 🎧 Apple Podcasts: Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild Apple Podcasts 📧 Email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com 📧Website: wildbynaturepodcast.com

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Wild By Nature is a podcast exploring how the natural world shapes our mental health, creativity, identity, wellbeing, leadership, and human connection. In a world that rarely slows down, many of us feel disconnected — from nature, from community, and from ourselves. Through thoughtful conversations and deeply human storytelling, Wild By Nature brings together scientists, environmental thinkers, authors, creatives, wellness experts, and changemakers to explore the powerful relationship between people and the natural world. Hosted by storyteller and thought leader Vian Sharif, the podcast was inspired by a transformative experience in Kenya where reconnecting with nature brought a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and perspective. That journey sparked a deeper exploration into how nature influences the way we live, think, heal, create, and lead. Each episode translates big ideas around: • Nature & Mental Health • Environmental Science & Psychology • Creativity & Mindfulness • Leadership & Human Behavior • Connection, Belonging & Wellbeing • Ecology, Identity & Personal Growth …into meaningful, accessible conversations listeners can apply to everyday life. Whether you're navigating burnout, searching for deeper connection, seeking inspiration, or simply longing to slow down, Wild By Nature offers space to reconnect — with the Earth, with others, and with yourself. Follow Wild By Nature on Apple podcasts or your podcast platform, leave a rating and review, and subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes and conversations. New episodes every other Thursday. PARTNER WITH US Support the stories. Deepen the connection. Help us bring more stories of human connection to the wild to life. For individual support and corporate partnership inquiries, visit https://wildbynaturepodcast.app/#partnerships or email: wildbynaturepodcast@gmail.com

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