The Wild Lab

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
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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.
 
 
 

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.
 

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.
 

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.

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.

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.

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.
 
 

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.
 

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.