A Little Green Avocado Green Brands

S2 E1: “One of the powers of this little canoe...is keeping these really important parts of our culture, our history, and our traditions alive.”

Thousands of years ago, Polynesian seafarers did something remarkable: they navigated their way across endless miles of open ocean guided only by the stars, the wind, and the sea, ultimately arriving in Hawaii. As a child, Lehua Kamalu grew up hearing this epic story, and in 2022, she was the first woman to captain and navigate that ancient route. To kick season two of A Little Green off, Lehua shares how one historic canoe and the people that make up its crew could help preserve Hawaiian culture and the health of our planet.

Visit www.hokulea.com to learn more about the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Do you have a story to share? Tell us how nature has changed your life @avocadogreenbrands on Instagram.

S2 E2: “It was almost the revelation of my own humanity.”

Spending just two hours a week in nature could improve your mental and physical health. That’s the conclusion researchers at the University of Exeter Medical School came to in their 2019 study; that analysis would change Mike Fuhrmann’s life forever. After struggling with anxiety and depression, he would go on to hike over 13,000 miles of the country’s most spectacular trails. Along the way, he learned to manage his mental health, was inspired to pick up a camera, and made lasting connections with fellow wanderers.

Visit www.portraitofahiker.com to follow Mike’s journey.

Content Warning: This episode contains a brief discussion of suicide, which may be upsetting to some listeners. If you or a loved one is in crisis, or having thoughts of suicide, help is available, please call 988, the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Hotline or visit their website at 988lifeline.org.

S2 E3: “Nature saved my spirit, saved my marriage and created a safe place for me to...find purpose and meaning in what life really is about.”

Sonya and Necota Staples fell in love in college, got married, and bought a house in the suburbs of Atlanta. But happily ever after wouldn’t be that simple. They tell a story about the camping trip that changed the trajectory of their marriage, and their relationship with nature, forever.

Follow @staplesintents on Instagram or visit staplesintents.com to follow their work. We’d love to hear about your life-changing experience with nature. Share it with us @avocadogreenbrands on Instagram.

S2 E4: “You have to figure out how to use your wings and what they're for.”

Nichole Alexander spent three years raising endangered butterflies while incarcerated. The butterflies weren’t the only beings that metamorphosed along the way. Nichole had experienced immense loss and years of discouragement within the prison system. Nature provided respite, a healing environment, and newfound confidence that would inspire Nichole to better her community and make the world a more just place.

Visit sustainabilityinprisons.org to learn more about their programs.

S2 E5: “That started my journey to being an activist and an artist.”

In 2022, Staten Island’s Elizabeth Shvarts was named New York’s Youth Poet Laureate. Ten years earlier, her home was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy; the experience opened her eyes to the devastating impacts of climate change at a young age. Elizabeth devoted herself to poetry and channeled her exceptional gift into climate action, becoming part of a community of young people driving change.

You can follow Elizabeth on Instagram @elizabeth.shvarts. Tell us how nature has changed your life @avocadogreenbrands on Instagram.

S2 E6: “Oh my gosh, this is my very best self. And I am happier than I have ever been.”

Virginia Rose grew up loving nature. She rode horses and went backpacking with her family until a sudden accident changed her life forever. Virginia would go on to pursue a career in education. After retiring, Virginia found an unlikely hobby that would reconnect her with the outdoors and with an integral part of herself. Her experience would launch a movement to make nature more accessible for all.

Visit birdability.org to learn more about Virginia’s work.