What if the way we see nature could be the key to a more sustainable future? 

In this two-part series, we're turning to see nature as a gardener. In this conversation, Brian speaks with two of his children, Brett and Rachel McLaren, about their love for nature and gardening. They discuss their childhood memories of exploring and appreciating the natural world, the joy and importance of gardening, the value of diversity in plants, and the challenges of restoration and preservation. They also explore how their experiences with nature have changed their perspective on the world and their role as caretakers of the earth.

About Brett:

Brett McLaren is the Chief Strategy Officer of MetaPhase Consulting. Brett is responsible for overseeing business development, strategic partnerships, development of corporate capabilities, marketing, and proposal operations activities. Prior to MetaPhase, Brett supported large scale federal IT programs at federal consulting firms including Booz Allen Hamilton and CGI. He holds a B.A. in Computer Information Systems from James Madison University and an MBA from Georgetown University. He is a PMI-Certified Project Management Professional, and holds Agile SCRUM and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) certifications. Outside of work, Brett enjoys trying new ethnic food, fishing, the outdoors, and coaching soccer.

About Rachel:

Dr. Rachel McLaren is an associate professor in the Communication Studies Department at the University of Iowa. Rachel’s social-scientific research revolves around the exploration of how individuals navigate and derive meaning from significant experiences within their relationships, encompassing various facets such as conflict resolution, handling transgressions, and managing emotions. Her recent work has focused on sense-making and conflict in parent-adolescent relationships. You can find links to her research articles here.

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