What if learning to love a forest could change how you see responsibility, courage, and your place in the living world? 

From trees that sweat clouds to foxes guided by invisible forces, today’s conversation invites us back into a world alive with wonder.

Joining us today on The Passing Through Podcast is Ethan Tapper, author of the award-winning book How to Love a Forest. Ethan is an internationally recognized forester, educator, and digital storyteller devoted to re-enchanting our relationship with the natural world. He currently lives on a 175-acre forest in Vermont, a place he calls “Bear Island.”

In this episode, we explore the complex beauty of the living world — from the surprising and scientifically proven connection between birding and ear hair, to the profound responsibilities of ecological stewardship, and the quiet magic of trees creating clouds. We reflect on how the forests we wander today are only shadows of their former selves, uncover the hidden wonders of magnetoreception in animals, and explore re-enchantment as an antidote to modern apathy. This conversation invites us to consider how our actions — big or small — can help cultivate a healthier, more vibrant planet. If you’re longing to deepen your relationship with nature and rediscover a sense of wonder, this episode is for you.

All the links you need to find Ethan are below:

https://ethantapper.com

https://www.instagram.com/howtoloveaforest

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG5pCDPHUyOiA2vW1l7L6oA

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551839705724

https://www.tiktok.com/@howtoloveaforest

Ethan’s book

https://bookshop.org/p/books/how-to-love-a-forest-the-bittersweet-work-of-tending-a-changing-world-ethan-tapper/aadfae3187214809?ean=9798889830559&next=t&

Winnebago Man

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWUWPx2VeQ