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The Wild Lab

The Wild Lab

Written by: Ned Weidner
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About this listen

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.© 2025 The Wild Lab Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Protecting the Boundary Waters with Ingrid Lyons
    Feb 15 2026

    In this conversation, Ingrid Lyons, the executive director of Save the Boundary Waters, discusses the current threats facing the Boundary Waters wilderness area in Minnesota due to proposed copper mining. She shares her personal connection to the area, the ecological and economic implications of mining, and the importance of public engagement in protecting this vital natural resource. Our conversation emphasizes the need for collective action to safeguard the Boundary Waters for future generations.

    To take action for the BWCAW: https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/

    Want to learn wilderness skills and connect with the land? https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Boundary Waters and Ingrid Lyons 02:57 Ingrid's Early Memories and Connection to the Boundary Waters 05:54 Transition from Visitor to Advocate for the Boundary Waters 08:43 The Unique Experience of the Boundary Waters Wilderness 11:47 Current Threats to the Boundary Waters: Mining Issues 14:53 Understanding the Mining Controversy and Its Implications 17:32 The Environmental Risks of Copper Mining 22:19 The Pollution Dilemma of Copper Mining 23:18 Ecological and Cultural Risks of Mining 27:55 Economic Impacts of the Boundary Waters 29:16 Advocacy for Protection of the Boundary Waters 31:51 The Broader Implications of Mining Legislation 35:22 Potential Consequences of Mining Approval 37:54 A Vision for the Future of the Boundary Waters

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    40 mins
  • The Heart of Botany: A Conversation with Nick Jensen of CNPS
    Feb 5 2026

    In this conversation, Nick Jensen and I explore the significance of plants and ecosystems, discussing topics such as plant blindness, the importance of native plants, and the role of conservation in public lands. Nick emphasizes the need for observation in nature, personal connections to plants, and the impact of community advocacy on conservation efforts. Our discussion also touches on the beauty of ecosystems, challenges posed by invasive species, and the importance of engaging with nature in everyday life.

    To connect with California Native Plant Society: https://www.instagram.com/california_native_plants/

    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.

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Walking to Listen with Andrew Forsthoefel
    Jan 26 2026

    In this conversation, Andrew Forsthoefel shares his transformative journey of walking across America, exploring themes of fatherhood, self-discovery, and the importance of listening. He discusses the challenges and joys of new fatherhood, the balance between work and family life, and the significance of creating heart-centered spaces in education. Andrew emphasizes the healing power of vulnerability and the role of mentorship in personal growth, ultimately highlighting that listening is an act of love that fosters deeper connections between individuals.

    To connect with Andrew: https://littlecourtyard.substack.com/

    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.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
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