The Wild Lab

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
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Rites of Passage and What It Means to Be an Adult with Darcy Ottey

In this conversation, I speak with Darcy Ottey about her book Rites and Responsibilities: A Guide to Growing Up. We explore the complexities of adulthood, the importance of community in personal development, and the paradox of writing a guide to growing up while emphasizing the need for communal support. Darcy shares insights on identity formation and the journey of understanding oneself within a community context. She also talks about the importance of understanding our ancestry. 
 
To contact Darcy: @darcy.ottey
 
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.

The Skiff as Confessional with Johann Dupreez

In this conversation, Johann Dupreez and I talk about the work he does as executive director of Indifly Foundation, a 501C3 nonprofit that guides indigenous communities towards sustainable futures through fly fishing eco-tourism. We delve into the transformative power of fishing and the ways fishing can bring communities together in the name of conservation. 
 
Check out the work Indifly is doing: @indiflyfoundation
To check out Johann and his art: @johanndupreez_art
 
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.

Father and Son Dynamics in Nature with Vince Chafin

In this conversation, Vince Chafin and I explore the concept of wildness, freedom, and the deep connection to nature that shapes a person's spirit. Vince shares his experiences growing up in the woods, the lessons learned from hunting, and the bond formed with his father through these shared experiences. Our discussion delves into the masculine and feminine expressions of wildness, the importance of responsibility, and the profound gratitude that comes from understanding life and death. 
 
To get in contact with Vince: @vincematoska
 
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.

You Gotta Bleed a Little to Be Free with Traver Boehm

In this conversation, Traver Boehm discusses his journey of personal growth through the Uncivilized Movement, the significance of stillness, and the transformative experiences of dark retreats. He emphasizes the importance of living authentically and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. Traver shares insights on masculinity, fear, and the necessity of confronting one's own mortality to live a fulfilling life. He offers advice for those considering dark retreats and reflects on the profound lessons learned from his experiences in darkness.
 
To get in contact with Traver: @traverboehm or https://www.manuncivilized.com/
 
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.
 
 

Redefining Masculinity in Nature with Jarod Anderson

In this conversation, Jared Anderson and I explore the themes of wildness, masculinity, and the healing power of nature. We discuss the importance of stillness, observation, and the role of words in mental health. Our dialogue emphasizes the need for vulnerability and empathy in redefining masculinity, while also recognizing the significance of personal boundaries. Through our shared experiences, we highlight the connection between nature and emotional well-being, advocating for a more authentic and fulfilling life.
 
To get in contact with Jarod: @cryptonaturalist
 
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.
 

Hunting is a Mirror to Life

In this solo episode, I explore the profound connection between hunting and intimacy, challenging the traditional notions of conquest in both realms. I emphasizes the importance of presence, patience, and reverence in our interactions with nature and relationships. 
We have two spots available for our upcoming men's backcountry retreat Sept 18-21. DM on Instagram if you are interested in joining. 
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.
 

From Pastor to Hunter: A Journey into Wildness with Tony Jones

In this conversation, Tony Jones and I explore the concept of wildness, the journey of rewilding from a structured life to embracing the outdoors, and the spiritual connections found in hunting and fishing. We discuss the ethics of hunting, the importance of conservation, and the ongoing battle to protect the Boundary Waters from mining. Our conversation emphasizes the need for stewardship over dominion and encourages listeners to engage in conservation efforts.
 
To get in contact with Tony: @thereverendhunter
 
Stay Connected

Instagram: @stepintoyourwild
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.
 

Bears, Conservation, and Mental Health with Joe Kondelis.

In this conversation, Joe Kondelis and I talk about the role of hunting in maintaining ecological balance and conservation efforts. We discuss personal stories about the role of hunting in our own mental health, and the importance of hunter advocacy for wildlife conservation. 
To get in contact with Joe and the American Bear Foundation: https://americanbearfoundation.org/
 
Stay Connected

Instagram: @stepintoyourwild
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.

Horses and Lessons in Authenticity with Duey Freeman

In this conversation, Duey Freeman and I explore the intricate dynamics of human relationships, trauma, and healing. We discuss the importance of creating spiritual connections, understanding the prey-predator dynamic in relationships, and the empowerment that comes from community. Our conversation delves into the roles of victims, predators, and perpetrators, emphasizing the need for men to confront their inner predator and foster healthy relationships. We also highlight the significance of attachment and trust, advocating for emotional openness and the ability to navigate tough times together.
 
To get in contact with Duey: https://www.dueyfreeman.org/
 
Stay Connected

Instagram: @stepintoyourwild
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.