Earthkeepers: A Circlewood Podcast on Creation Care and Spirituality

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In this conversation, introduced by James Amadon, Forrest Inslee is a guest on the Holy Wild podcast, hosted by Victoria Loorz of the Center for Wild Spirituality. Forrest discusses his journey of transitioning from a traditional evangelical perspective to a more inclusive understanding of creation care. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of all creation and the need for a shift in the church's approach to environmental issues. The dialogue explores themes of ecological discipleship, the significance of listening to the land, and the role of spirituality in fostering a deeper connection with nature. Forrest and Victoria share their personal reflections on their experiences, and on the transformative power of community engagement in environmental stewardship.

Takeaways

• Forrest's transition reflects a broader shift in understanding creation care.
• The church's focus has historically been on human needs, neglecting the environment.
• Listening to the land is crucial for effective ecological restoration.
• Copowerment emphasizes mutual reliance rather than top-down empowerment.
• Spirituality plays a significant role in fostering a connection with nature.
• The journey of ecological discipleship involves leaving behind outdated beliefs.
• Community engagement is essential for meaningful environmental action.
• Personal experiences with nature can lead to deeper spiritual insights.
• The interconnectedness of all beings is foundational to ecological care.
• Transformation requires patience and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

Keywords

 spirituality, creation care, ecological discipleship, community development, environmental justice, church transformation, interdependence, listening to the land, co-powerment, nature connection

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In this conversation, John Vicory shares his journey of recovery through the outdoor community OSAT (One Step at a Time). He discusses the importance of nature in healing, the diverse backgrounds of OSAT members, and how the organization fosters a supportive environment for those in recovery. John reflects on his personal struggles with addiction, the transformative power of outdoor activities, and the spiritual connections formed within the community. The conversation emphasizes the significance of connection, both to nature and to others, in the recovery process.

OSAT (One Step at a Time)

Jim Hinkhouse

Friluftsliv

Earthkeepers episode 132: Finding Wholeness in Wilderness Adventure, with Jason Lyle

Takeaways

• OSAT is an outdoor club focused on recovery.
• The community includes people at various stages of recovery.
• John's journey highlights the struggle with alcohol addiction.
• Nature plays a crucial role in healing and recovery.
• OSAT provides a unique, supportive environment for recovery.
• Spirituality is an integral part of the OSAT experience.
• Connection to nature can lead to profound personal insights.
• Isolation can be detrimental to recovery efforts.
• The importance of community in the recovery process.
• Encouragement to seek nature and community for healing.

 Keywords: OSAT, recovery, addiction, nature, community, healing, outdoor activities, spirituality, personal journey, support, One Step at a Time, Alcoholics Anonymous, higher power, Al Anon, indigeneity, Jim Hinkhouse

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In this conversation, Forrest and James engage with Wes and Stephanie Vander Lugt, co-founders of Kinship Plot, an intentional community in Charlotte, North Carolina. They discuss the vision behind Kinship Plot, which focuses on cultivating resonant relationships with each other, the land, and with Spirit. The conversation explores the community's practices, challenges, and the importance of contemplative action and liberatory welcome. The founders share stories of community engagement, the joy of working together, and the deep longing for belonging and rootedness in a fast-paced world. They emphasize the need for personal reflection and the impact of community on individual healing and growth. Finally, Forrest poses questions meant to get us to think about our own needs for belonging, and how we might take action to cultivate or even initiate communities of purpose.

Read Wes and Stephanie's post on The Ecological Disciple here.

Kinship Plot

Takeaways

• Kinship Plot is a living laboratory for community engagement.
• The vision was born during COVID, focusing on relationships.
• Community gatherings often take place in their backyard and gardens.
• Names of plants and people are portals into deeper stories.
• Contemplative practices are essential for community life.
• Liberatory welcome means creating open and inclusive spaces.
• The journey of establishing Kinship Plot has been challenging yet rewarding.
• Rootedness in a place fosters a sense of belonging.
• Small actions can lead to significant community impact.
• The importance of intergenerational relationships in community building.

Keywords

Kinship Plot, Circlewood, intentional community, ecological learning, contemplative practices, liberatory welcome, belonging, community engagement, social concern, relationship with nature

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In this conversation, Jennifer Godfrey shares her journey of advocacy for the Southern Resident Killer Whales and the broader ecological health of the Puget Sound region. She discusses her emotional connection to nature, the challenges she faced in filing the Orca Appeal, and the importance of community engagement in environmental issues. Jennifer emphasizes the need for urban planning to consider endangered species and the role of individuals in making a difference, regardless of their background or position.

Info on The Orca Appeal and how you can support it

Earthkeepers episode on orcas, with Joe Olson

Takeaways

• Jennifer moved to Seattle in 1999 and was inspired by the local ecology.
• The Orca Appeal was initiated due to the lack of consideration for endangered orcas in urban planning.
• Jennifer filed the appeal just before the deadline, highlighting her commitment to the cause.
• Community support has been overwhelming, with many offering help and expertise.
• Urban planning often overlooks ecological health due to various pressures.
• Jennifer's early experiences with nature shaped her advocacy work.
• The importance of educating the public about environmental issues is crucial.
• Creativity in advocacy can engage the community and raise awareness.
• Facing opposition can be a sign of being on the right track in advocacy.
• Anyone can make a difference, regardless of their background.

Keywords

Orca Appeal, environmental advocacy, Seattle, endangered species, community engagement, urban planning, ecosystem health, Southern Resident Killer Whales, public awareness, nature connection

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Summary

In this conversation, Forrest talks with Ron Cole-Turner about his journey from traditional theological education to exploring the intersection of psychedelics and spirituality. In particular, they address themes in Ron’s new book Psychedelics and Christian Faith: Exploring an Unexpected Pathway to Healing and Spirituality. Ron emphasizes the potential of psychedelics to enhance spiritual experiences and foster a deeper connection with nature. The discussion also touches on the importance of respecting indigenous practices, the risks of cultural appropriation, and the need for the church to adapt and embrace these transformative experiences for spiritual renewal.

Takeaways

• Ron Cole-Turner reflects on his journey from traditional theology to exploring psychedelics.
• Psychedelics are substances that alter perceptions and can lead to spiritual experiences.
• Research shows a link between psychedelics and mystical experiences.
• Psychedelics can enhance feelings of connection to nature and others.
• Indigenous practices offer valuable insights into the use of psychedelics.
• Cultural appropriation is a concern when adopting indigenous practices.
• Personal stories highlight the healing potential of psychedelics.
• The book aims to encourage clergy to engage with the topic of psychedelics.
• The church must adapt to the changing spiritual landscape.
• Psychedelics may play a role in the future renewal of Christianity.

Keywords: psychedelics, spirituality, Christianity, mental health, indigenous practices, connection to nature, cultural appropriation, healing, personal stories, church renewal

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As we are all aware, so many of the issues that seem to dominate the headlines these days have to do with either racism or the climate crisis. On the face of it, these two major areas of strife and struggle don’t always seem to have a lot to do with one another, but in fact, they are fundamentally connected, sharing the very same root causes that drive them. In his book Plundered: The Tangled Roots of Racial and Environmental Injustice, David Swanson makes the case that we really can’t fully understand these two seemingly disparate issues apart from one another, and that both are inextricably linked by issues of culture, geography, history, and even theology. In this conversation, David and Forrest discuss the book, as well as his experiences living in a predominantly African American neighborhood in Chicago and how his journey has shaped his understanding of racial and environmental justice. He emphasizes the importance of community, belonging, and the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues. Swanson also explores the role of Jesus in creation and redemption, advocating for a broader understanding of hope that transcends wishful thinking and engages with the realities of the world.

Takeaways

• David Swanson emphasizes the importance of staying in one place to truly understand and connect with the community.
• The interconnectedness of racial and environmental justice is a central theme in Swanson's work.
• Swanson's experience as a white pastor in a predominantly Black neighborhood highlights the complexities of racial dynamics in church leadership.
• The concept of belonging to a place is essential for addressing systemic issues.
• Swanson argues that the church must engage with both individual transformation and systemic change.
• Hope should be rooted in reality and not just wishful thinking, according to Swanson.
• The role of Jesus in creation is pivotal to understanding redemption and hope.
• Communities of caretakers are essential for nurturing relationships with the land and each other.
• Swanson advocates for a vision of hope that is active and engaged with the present world.
• The importance of storytelling and sharing experiences within communities is highlighted as a means of fostering connection.

 Keywords: David Swanson, racial justice, environmental justice, community, belonging, church leadership, hope, creation care, indigenous, social justice

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In this episode, Forrest engages with the DeJong family, who have been pivotal in the restoration of the Cheasty Greenspace in Seattle, WA. The conversation explores their journey of transforming a neglected urban forest into a thriving community space, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, ecological restoration, and the integration of indigenous knowledge. The DeJongs share their experiences of working together as a family and the impact of their efforts on the local community and environment. They also discuss the challenges posed by climate change and the hope they hold for future generations to connect with and care for nature.

Guests: The Dejong Family 

• Mary Dejong 
• Joel Dejong  

Mentions: 

• Earthkeepers Episodes 2, 40, and 78 
• Cheasty Greenspace 
• Green Seattle Partnership 
• Duwamish Tribe 
• Check out these photo albums of Cheasty Greenspace/Mt. View and Cheasty trails! 

Takeaways

• The DeJong family has been involved in the Cheasty Greenspace restoration for 17 years.
• Community engagement is crucial for successful ecological restoration projects.
• Listening to the land and its history is essential in restoration efforts.
• The project has transformed a neglected space into a vibrant community hub.
• Indigenous knowledge plays a vital role in understanding and restoring ecosystems.
• Family involvement in community projects fosters deeper connections and shared values.
• Access to nature is a right that should be available to all communities.
• Climate change poses challenges, but local actions can lead to positive change.
• Building community around shared environmental goals enhances collective action.
• The transformation of the Cheasty Greenspace serves as a model for other urban restoration efforts.

Keywords: environmental restoration, trails, accessibility, recreation, ecosystem, ecology, invasive species, deforestation, settlers, native species, wildlife, nature, spirituality, spiritual ecology, community, cultural restitution, cultural restoration, stewardship, connections, relationships, climate change, Cheasty Greenspace, community restoration, ecology, environmental advocacy, urban nature, indigenous knowledge, climate change, family involvement

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This episode considers how much of the current language around nature therapy can actually distance some people, and focuses on the need for better ways to talk about earth care and connection to the earth for men in particular. Jason Lyle shares with Forrest about Adventures in Recovery, an organization in the state of Georgia that uses wilderness experience to facilitate healing and personal growth for men. He discusses the profound impact of wilderness therapy on mental health, the importance of reconnecting with the body and nature, and the evolving landscape of spirituality in modern society. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for individuals to immerse themselves in nature, and highlights the significance of community connection recovery processes. 

Adventures in Recovery (soon to be rebranded as AIR Georgia)

Freeology Podcast (soon to be rebranded as Sacred Grit podcast)

BONUS CONTENT: Jason coaches Forrest about cold water immersion

 Takeaways

• Jason shares his deep connection to nature and its impact on his life.
• Adventures in Recovery focuses on healing through nature and community.
• The importance of personal experiences in shaping one's purpose.
• Nature immersion helps individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions.
• Spirituality can be practical and rooted in everyday decisions.
• The body and mind connection is crucial for personal growth.
• Community support plays a vital role in recovery processes.
• Nature teaches resilience and adaptability in challenging situations.
• Practical strategies for reconnecting with nature include immersion and foraging.
• The future of spiritual communities may focus on personal experiences rather than traditional structures.

 Keywords

nature, healing, recovery, spirituality, wilderness therapy, personal growth, men's mental health, adventure, community, connection, nature-based therapy, redneck culture, adoption trauma, cold water immersion

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Americans are facing a massive crisis in earth care. The stark reality is that we’ve all been witnessing the decimation of multiple government land management agencies, such as the National Park Service and US Fish and Wildlife, among many others. And it’s becoming increasingly obvious how the present administration’s drastic cuts to staffing and budgets translates into the wholesale gutting of public services, environmental protections, and critical research for planetary health. But what we don’t hear about so much is the cost of these changes to the actual federal employees on the front lines of these agencies-- in terms of their economic security, their mental health, and even their human dignity.

In this conversation, Mark, a federal worker reflects on his 33-year career with the U.S. Forest Service, discussing his journey in land conservation, the importance of education in fostering environmental values, and the current threats to environmental regulations under political changes. He emphasizes the human cost of these policies and the need for community engagement and honest conversations to resist anti-Earth agendas. Mark also shares his ongoing passion for conservation and the role of education in shaping future generations' relationship with the environment.

Episode 12: Mark's previous episode on Earthkeepers

Episode 14: Children and earthkeeping: The Woodsong Forest School

Takeaways
Mark reflects on his fulfilling career in land conservation.
Education plays a crucial role in valuing the environment.
The dismantling of environmental regulations poses significant risks.
Political changes have drastically affected land management agencies.
Restoring environmental standards will be a long and costly process.
Federal employees are facing unprecedented challenges and trauma.
Community engagement is essential for effective conservation efforts.
Real resistance requires honest conversations and understanding.
Mark emphasizes the importance of native species in restoration.
Everyone has a role in educating others about environmental issues.

Keywords
land conservation, environmental policy, education, native species, public lands, whistleblower, environmental regulations, political impact, community engagement, national parks

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Have you ever wondered what it might be like to align your daily work in ways that directly benefit the planet? Or, do you know folks in the early stages of vocational exploration who are seeking meaningful work in fields connected to earth care? In this episode, Forrest talks with Brennan Ziegler—a guy in his mid-twenties who has dedicated himself to exploring many possible paths in earthkeeping as vocation. Brennan Ziegler shares his journey as a young advocate for the environment, discussing the emotional landscape of his generation regarding climate change, his formative experiences in nature, and his educational path that led him to work at Dr. Bronner's Soap Company. He emphasizes the importance of community support, the authenticity of business practices, and the role of education in fostering climate action. Brennan also reflects on his involvement with the ClimateBase fellowship and his aspirations for a sustainable future, encouraging others to become agents of change.

Takeaways

• Younger generations experience a spectrum of emotions about climate change.
• Community support is crucial for feeling empowered to advocate for change.
• Experiences in nature can shape a passion for environmental advocacy.
• Education plays a significant role in developing a service-oriented mindset.
• Dr. Bronner's is a leader in ethical sourcing and sustainability.
• B Corp certification helps ensure transparency in business practices.
• Authenticity in business is essential to combat greenwashing.
• The ClimateBase fellowship provides valuable insights into climate solutions.
• Future aspirations include living in a sustainable, car-free environment.
• Education is key for aspiring change-makers to take action. 

Keywords

climate change, environmental advocacy, generational perspectives, sustainability, Dr. Bronner's, B Corp, ClimateBase, education, activism, future aspirations

Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple