The Wild Lab

Ned Weidner
  • 5.0 (4)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

The Wild Lab, explores how wildness still lives in our bodies, our relationships, and the natural world. Through story, conversation, and practice, we investigate how to reawaken what the modern world made us forget. We talk with trackers, horsemen, monks, plant shamans, hunters, coaches, and wild-hearted thinkers. And the host Ned Weidner goes solo too—digging into what it means to live closer to instinct, to let the wilderness shape us, and to walk the long road back to ourselves.

  1. 12/19/2025

    Empowering Women in Hunting: A Conversation with Jess Johnson

    In this episode, Jess Johnson shares her journey as a woman in the hunting community, discussing her upbringing in nature, the importance of reciprocity in conservation, and the unique challenges women face in the hunting world. She emphasizes the role of intuition in hunting, the emotional journey of new hunters, and the need for diverse voices in the hunting community. Jess also highlights the mission of Artemis, a program aimed at empowering women in hunting and conservation efforts, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with others. To connect with Jess: @jesscjohnson_   Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html   Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild   Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

    1h 13m

  2. 12/13/2025

    Modern Rites of Passage with Adam Jackson

    In this conversation, Adam Jackson, co-founder of Sacred Sons, shares his journey from a troubled youth to a leader in the men's movement. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of gratitude in personal growth, and the need for modern rites of passage for young men. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, service, and authenticity in creating a culture of brotherhood. Adam reflects on the impact of grief and loss, the legacy of service, and the vision for Sacred Sons as a movement that fosters connection and healing among men. To connect with Adam and Sacred Sons: @sacredsons   Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html   Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild   Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

    1h 9m

  3. 12/07/2025

    Fear and Growth: A Journey with Ned Weidner

    In this episode I explore the concept of 'The Space Between,' a metaphorical space representing the moments of uncertainty and fear before making significant life decisions. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, I highlight the importance of embracing these moments, understanding the fear they bring, and the growth that comes from facing them. The narrative is enriched with stories from my own experiences as a young horseman, highlighting the tension between control and surrender, and the lessons learned from taking risks. Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html   Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild   Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

    31 min

  4. 11/25/2025

    The Journey of The Way Around with Nicholas Triolo

    In this conversation, I speak with filmmaker and author Nicholas Triolo about his book The Way Around and the themes of wildness, discipline, and personal growth. We explore how nature influences our lives, the importance of stillness, and the journey of writing as a conversation with the world. Triolo shares insights on revision as a spiritual practice and the balance between conquest and connection in nature. Our discussion emphasizes the ongoing nature of writing and the transformative power of personal experiences in the wild. To contact Nick on IG: @nicholas.triolo   Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Interested in hunting, fishing, or tracking? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

    1h 9m

  5. 11/18/2025

    Learning to Trust: A Bridge between Wildness and Control with Ned Weidner

    Join me (Ned Weidner) as I explore the intricate dance of trust, fear, and courage through personal stories and experiences with a horse named Toby. Discover how trust is not just a leap of faith but a series of small, intentional steps that bridge the gap between wildness and control. This episode delves into the nuances of building trust in oneself and others, offering insights into how these lessons can be applied to everyday life. The stories in this episode challenge the conventional wisdom of 'going all in' and embrace the power of patience and presence. If you are interested in diving in deeper with me in person, DM me on instagram @stepintoyourwild   Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend. Help spread the medicine.

    38 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    The Future of Public Lands with Devin O'Dea

    In this conversation, I speak with Devin O'Dea, the Western Policy and Conservation Manager for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA). We discuss the vital role of BHA in advocating for public lands and wildlife conservation, the challenges facing these areas, and the importance of community involvement in stewardship projects. Devin shares his personal journey into hunting and fishing, emphasizing the connection to wild food and the need for sustainable practices. We also explore the implications of the Roadless Rule, the North American model of conservation, and the future of public lands amidst habitat fragmentation and climate change. To contact Devin on IG: chefboyodea or check out the work happening over at BHA    Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Interested in hunting, fishing, or tracking? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend. Help spread the medicine.

    1h 9m

  7. 10/29/2025

    Rewilding Our Lives with Daniel Vitalis

    In this conversation, I speak with Daniel Vitalis, a prominent figure in the world of wild food and rewilding. We explore the importance of connecting with nature, the challenges of modern life, and the need for balance between wildness and structure. Daniel shares his insights on the significance of understanding food as a part of living organisms and the impact of death on our relationship with nature. Our discussion emphasizes the need to slow down and appreciate the magic of life while navigating the complexities of the digital and built environments. To contact Daniel on IG: danielvitalis or check out WildFed on YouTube.   Stay Connected
 Instagram: @stepintoyourwild   Interested in hunting, fishing, or tracking? Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend. Help spread the medicine.

    1h 12m

  8. 10/24/2025

    Learning from Creeks and the Power of Stillness with Ned Weidner

    In this solo episode, I explore the concept of stillness, using the metaphor of a creek to explore mental health and personal growth. Reflecting on my childhood experiences in Ohio, I share how the creek taught me patience, connection, and the importance of letting life's currents clear the path ahead.  If you are interested in diving in deeper with me in person, DM me on instagram @stepintoyourwild   Subscribe to The Wild Lab 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild Please like, share, and follow:
 If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend. Help spread the medicine.

    20 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Wild Lab, explores how wildness still lives in our bodies, our relationships, and the natural world. Through story, conversation, and practice, we investigate how to reawaken what the modern world made us forget. We talk with trackers, horsemen, monks, plant shamans, hunters, coaches, and wild-hearted thinkers. And the host Ned Weidner goes solo too—digging into what it means to live closer to instinct, to let the wilderness shape us, and to walk the long road back to ourselves.

Information

  • Creator
    Ned Weidner
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Wild Lab
  • Show Website
    The Wild Lab