Wild By Nature: Stories of Human Connection To The Wild

Wild By Nature is a podcast exploring how the natural world shapes our mental health, creativity, identity, wellbeing, leadership, and human connection. In a world that rarely slows down, many of us feel disconnected — from nature, from community, and from ourselves. Through thoughtful conversations and deeply human storytelling, Wild By Nature brings together scientists, environmental thinkers, authors, creatives, wellness experts, and changemakers to explore the powerful relationship between people and the natural world. Hosted by storyteller and thought leader Vian Sharif, the podcast was inspired by a transformative experience in Kenya where reconnecting with nature brought a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and perspective. That journey sparked a deeper exploration into how nature influences the way we live, think, heal, create, and lead. Each episode translates big ideas around: • Nature & Mental Health • Environmental Science & Psychology • Creativity & Mindfulness • Leadership & Human Behavior • Connection, Belonging & Wellbeing • Ecology, Identity & Personal Growth …into meaningful, accessible conversations listeners can apply to everyday life. Whether you're navigating burnout, searching for deeper connection, seeking inspiration, or simply longing to slow down, Wild By Nature offers space to reconnect — with the Earth, with others, and with yourself. Follow Wild By Nature on your favorite podcast platform, leave a rating and review, and subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes and conversations. New episodes every other week.

Finding Belonging in Nature with Rue Mapp 07/23/2026

Finding Belonging in Nature with Rue Mapp In a world facing rising loneliness, division, and disconnection, where do we find belonging? In this episode of Wild by Nature, host Vian Sharif sits down with author, activist, and Outdoor Afro founder Rue Mapp to explore how nature can become one of our most powerful tools for connection—not only to the natural world, but to each other. Rue shares the remarkable story of growing up on her family's ranch in California, where hospitality, community, and outdoor experiences shaped her understanding of belonging. She explains how those early lessons inspired the creation of Outdoor Afro, a movement that has helped thousands of people reconnect with nature, confidence, joy, and community. Together, Vian and Rue discuss why nature is far more than recreation. From campfires and family traditions to mountaineering adventures and transformative outdoor experiences, they explore how the outdoors can help us build resilience, deepen relationships, overcome fear, and discover who we truly are. Rue also shares the powerful story behind her book, Nature Swagger, and why representation, invitation, and confidence matter when helping people reconnect with the natural world. Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or someone searching for a greater sense of connection, this conversation offers a compelling reminder that nature welcomes us all. In This Episode Why belonging begins with feeling welcomed How Outdoor Afro is changing who we may imagine belongs outdoors The role of nature in addressing loneliness and social disconnection What "deep hanging out" teaches us about community Lessons from mountaineering, wilderness, and trusting yourself The story behind Nature Swagger How nature helps us connect across differences Why shared outdoor experiences create lifelong friendships What the natural world teaches us about humility, courage, and humanity Memorable Quote "Nature neutralizes all the things that separate us and reminds us what it means to simply be human." — Rue Mapp About Rue MappRue Mapp is the founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro, a nationally recognized organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. She is the author of Nature Swagger: Stories of Finding Confidence, Connection, and Joy in the Outdoors and has spent more than a decade helping expand access, representation, and belonging in outdoor spaces. Through storytelling, community building, and outdoor leadership, she has helped thousands of people reconnect with nature—and with each other. Connect with Rue Mapp Website: https://ruemapp.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruemapp/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruemapp/ Learn more about Outdoor Afro: https://outdoorafro.com Connect With Wild by NatureFollow, rate, and review Wild by Nature to help more people discover stories of human connection to the wild. /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/42169905

Forest Therapy, Stress Reduction & Human Connection with Amos Clifford (Ep 5) 07/09/2026

Forest Therapy, Stress Reduction & Human Connection with Amos Clifford (Ep 5) What happens when we stop rushing through nature—and finally allow ourselves to truly experience it? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif speaks with renowned forest therapy guide and author Amos Clifford, founder of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), about the transformative practice of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) and the growing science behind nature connection. Drawing from decades of experience as a wilderness guide, psychotherapist, and teacher, Amos explains why forest bathing is far more than a walk in the woods. By slowing down, engaging our senses, and becoming fully present, we open ourselves to restoration, clarity, and a deeper relationship with the living world. Together, Vian and Amos explore the Japanese roots of Shinrin-yoku, the research linking nature to reduced stress and improved well-being, and the powerful idea that "the forest is the therapist; the guide opens the doors." They discuss how simple invitations—not instructions—can foster healing, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of connection. Whether you're seeking greater calm, resilience, or a more meaningful relationship with nature, this conversation offers practical wisdom and timeless insight. In This Episode What forest bathing is—and how it differs from hiking The origins of Shinrin-yoku The science behind nature, stress reduction, and well-being Why slowing down is essential for healing "The forest is the therapist" Nature as a path to presence, clarity, and connection How forest therapy transforms the way we relate to ourselves and the natural worldd train forest therapy guides around the world and has introduced thousands of people to the benefits of nature connection. Learn more: Instagram Books by M. Amos Clifford: CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE YouTube: Instagram: LinkedIn: Email: SUPPORT THE SHOW If you enjoyed this episode: • Follow Wild By Nature on Apple Podcasts • Subscribe on YouTube • Leave a rating and review • Share this episode with someone who loves nature, wellbeing, and personal growth /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/42022650

Why Nature Is the Foundation of Our Economy with Marc Palahí - Special London Climate Action Week Episode (Ep. 4) 06/25/2026

Why Nature Is the Foundation of Our Economy with Marc Palahí - Special London Climate Action Week Episode (Ep. 4) LONDON CLIMATE ACTION WEEK SPECIAL EPISODE As leaders, investors, scientists, and policymakers gather for London Climate Action Week (), Wild by Nature explores one of the most important questions of our time: What if nature isn't separate from the economy—but the foundation of it? In this episode, Dr. Vian Sharif sits down with Marc Palahí, CEO of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance and Chief Nature Officer at Lombard Odier, to discuss biodiversity, climate change, sustainable finance, regenerative economies, forest ecosystems, and the growing connection between environmental health and economic resilience. Together, they explore why biodiversity loss and climate risk are becoming financial risks, how forests support human wellbeing and global prosperity, and why a circular bioeconomy may be essential to creating a nature-positive future. KEY TOPICS • Biodiversity and economic resilience • Climate change and financial risk • Sustainable finance and investing • The circular bioeconomy • Regenerative economies • Forests, ecosystems, and human wellbeing • Nature-positive business strategies • Climate leadership and systems change • The future of nature-based solutions ABOUT MARC PALAHÍ Marc Palahí is CEO of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance and Chief Nature Officer at Lombard Odier. A globally recognized expert in forest ecology, biodiversity, sustainable finance, and systems transformation, he works to accelerate solutions that align economic prosperity with planetary health. RESOURCES London Climate Action Week Circular Bioeconomy Alliance LinkedIn – Circular Bioeconomy Alliance Marc Palahí on LinkedIn Marc Palahi on Instagram CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Watch the full video episode on Youtube: Have an idea for a guest or topic? Email Us: FOLLOW THE SHOW If you enjoyed this conversation about nature, biodiversity, climate action, sustainability, regenerative leadership, and the future of our planet, please follow, rate, and review Wild by Nature on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/41794605

Reconnect With Nature & Purpose: The Enlightened Bottom Line with Jenna Nicholas 06/11/2026

Reconnect With Nature & Purpose: The Enlightened Bottom Line with Jenna Nicholas What if your relationship with nature could reshape not only your wellbeing—but how you lead, invest, and make decisions? In this episode of Wild by Nature, Dr. Vian Sharif sits down with Jenna Nicholas to explore a powerful idea: nature is not separate from us—it's a teacher, a guide, and a partner in how we live and build. Jenna shares a simple but profound shift: seeing nature as a friend. From the intelligence of mycelium networks to the quiet communication of trees, this conversation reframes nature as something we can learn from—if we slow down enough to listen. Drawing from her book, The Enlightened Bottom Line, Jenna explains how aligning purpose, people, and planet can lead to more sustainable, resilient, and meaningful outcomes. Together, they explore how lessons from nature can help us make better decisions, become more effective leaders, and reconnect with what matters most. KEY TOPICS • Nature as a teacher: Moving from extraction to relationship • Stillness as strategy: Why slowing down can lead to greater insight • Interconnection: Lessons from forests on collaboration and resilience • The Enlightened Bottom Line: Aligning profit with purpose, people, and planet • Listening as leadership: Applying nature's wisdom to business, investing, and everyday life ABOUT JENNA NICHOLAS Jenna Nicholas is an impact investor, entrepreneur, and author of The Enlightened Bottom Line. She is the CEO of Impact Experience and President of LightPost Capital, focused on aligning capital, purpose, and positive impact. Website: LinkedIn: CONNECT WITH WILD BY NATURE To suggest a topic or guest: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: LinkedIn: FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review Wild by Nature. Your support helps more people discover thoughtful conversations about nature, science, wellbeing, leadership, and human potential. /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/41603280

Nature As Medicine: The Science of Forest Bathing with Gary Evans (Ep. 02) 05/28/2026

Nature As Medicine: The Science of Forest Bathing with Gary Evans (Ep. 02) What if improving your mental health, reducing stress, and strengthening your immune system didn’t start in a clinic—but in nature? In this episode of Wild by Nature, host Vian Sharif explores the science behind nature as medicine with Gary Evans, co-founder of The Forest Bathing Institute and a leading voice in nature-based health research. Drawing from global studies and real-world programs, this conversation breaks down how time in biodiverse environments—especially forests—can regulate the nervous system, improve mental health, and even strengthen immune function. Evidence is growing: regular contact with nature isn’t a luxury—it’s foundational to human health. You’ll learn how exposure to natural environments impacts your body at a biological level, why modern lifestyles may be contributing to rising inflammation and stress-related conditions, and how simple, consistent time in nature can support long-term wellbeing. This episode connects science, public health, and everyday life—offering a new perspective on how reconnecting with nature can help restore balance in both body and mind. Key Topics: Forest bathing and nervous system regulation The link between biodiversity and immune health The microbiome, inflammation, and modern environments Nature as preventative healthcare How urban design impacts mental and physical health About Gary Evans: Gary Evans is the co-founder of The Forest Bathing Institute, a leading organization focused on the science and practice of forest bathing and nature connection. His work explores how time in nature can support mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and strengthen human connection to the natural world. Explore Gary Evans’ work and discover The Healing Power of Trees: The Definitive Guide to Forest Bathing wherever books are sold — including your favorite local bookstore. Learn More The Forest Bathing Institute - Follow Wild by Nature for more conversations at the intersection of nature, science, and human potential—and take a moment today to step outside, slow down, and listen. Connect with us at WildbyNaturepodcast@gmail.com and on all social media platforms @wildbynaturepodcast Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or drop a comment on Spotify or Youtube. /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/41439535

Why Your Brain Needs Nature with Dr. Marc Berman (Ep. 01) 05/14/2026

Why Your Brain Needs Nature with Dr. Marc Berman (Ep. 01) Can spending time in nature improve focus, reduce stress, and boost mental health? Research says yes. In this episode of Wild by Nature, host Vian Sharif speaks with Marc Berman, Chair of Psychology at University of Chicago and author of Nature and the Mind, about how nature impacts the brain, attention, and overall wellbeing. Discover how environmental neuroscience shows that even short exposure to green space — like a 50-minute walk — can improve memory, increase focus, and reduce mental fatigue by up to 20%. This conversation explores: • How nature affects attention, memory, and cognitive performance • The science behind stress reduction and mental restoration • Why green space may help reduce anxiety and depression • How modern environments contribute to burnout and mental fatigue • Simple ways to reconnect with nature in everyday life If you’re feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or burned out, this episode explains why nature may be one of the most powerful — and overlooked — tools for improving emotional balance, productivity, and overall health. About Dr. Marc Berman is Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology at the University of Chicago and Director of the Environmental Neuroscience Lab. His research explores how nature and physical environments affect the brain, attention, memory, mental health, and wellbeing. His work has helped shape the growing field of environmental neuroscience and has been featured in major research discussions and publications worldwide. Explore Dr. Berman’s work and discover wherever books are sold, including your favorite local bookstore. Follow Wild by Nature for more conversations exploring the connection between nature, science, wellbeing, and human potential. And wherever you are today, we invite you to step outside, slow down, and reconnect with the natural world around you. Know a Great Guest or Topic for Wild by Nature? Connect with us: Follow on social media: , , & @wildbynaturepodcast /episode/index/show/c9fcb98c-affc-4e0a-b3e1-97bf5bdf8e92/id/41400295

Wild By Nature Trailer 04/27/2026