In this episode, Rob sits down with maker-educator and sustainability innovator Gus Merckel, whose global journey, from Mexico to Germany to Thailand,has shaped a powerful approach to experiential learning.

Together, they explore how hands-on making, reclaimed materials, circular design, and outdoor learning can reconnect students with the real world and spark authentic curiosity.

Gus shares stories from the field and how outdoor learning helps students feel the impact of environmental change

Whether you're in design, outdoor ed, sustainability, or simply passionate about learning that matters, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink how young people learn — and what they can create when given the chance.

https://www.youtube.com/gusmerckel

Host Rob Carmichael sits down with Dr. Nevin Harper—outdoor educator, therapist, and co-author of Kids These Days—to explore how real growth happens through connection, challenge, and time outside. Neven traces his path from a northern Canadian childhood to wilderness guiding and clinical counseling, and unpacks big ideas from the new book: why risk ≠ hazard, how our modern “safety trap” and over-diagnosis can backfire, and why belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity (the Circle of Courage) are essential for youth development.

They also tackle hot topics like cell-phone bans, pandemic aftershocks, and the role of discomfort, play, and nature in building resilient young people. Practical takeaways for teachers, counselors, and parents included—plus simple ways to bring therapeutic, nature-based practices into everyday life.

Learn more about Nevin Harper: https://www.nevinharper.com/ and discover his new book https://www.kidsthesedaysbook.com/.

In this episode, Rob speaks with Pete Tupper, founder of Imagine — a network of outdoor learning and adventure companies operating across China, Japan, and Taiwan.

From ski slopes to startup offices, Pete shares how Imagine grew from a simple idea into a platform for outdoor education across Asia. Together, we explore the power of imagination in education, what it takes to lead outdoor programs across borders, and what outdoor entrepreneurship looks like.

Authentic, reflective, and full of practical insights for educators and entrepreneurs alike. Together, they explore:

• 🌿 Why outdoor education gives young people the space to imagine again
• 🌏 The challenge of adapting programs across different cultures and climates
• 💼 The transition from instructor to entrepreneur — and how to keep your passion alive
• ⚡ Why outdoor educators are “safe from AI” — and why the human connection to nature still matters

If you believe in learning through challenge, creativity, and connection, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how imagination and action can shape the future of outdoor learning.

🎧 Follow and share The Outdoor Education Podcast to help grow the global community of educators and adventurers taking learning outside.

Ressources:

https://www.imagine-asia.net/

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1X3JMHGU2w4QcRfUyIj8gS?si=982e5196c218406e