The Wild Lab

By Ned Weidner

The Wild Lab, explores how wildness still lives in our bodies, our relationships, and the natural world. Through story, conversation, and practice, we investigate how to reawaken what the modern world... more

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FAQs about The Wild Lab:

How many episodes does The Wild Lab have?

The podcast currently has 39 episodes available.

The Wild Lab episodes:

March 25, 2026 Apathy is Killing Our Rivers: A Conversation w/ Chris Wood of Trout Unlimited
In this conversation, Chris Wood discusses his journey from a passion for fishing to a career in conservation, emphasizing the importance of protecting cold water fisheries and public lands. He highlights the significance of the Roadless Rule, the role of sportsmen in conservation efforts, and the ongoing challenges faced in the field. The conversation also touches on the Klamath River restoration project and the need for community engagement to combat apathy towards conservation. Chris shares insights on the healing power of nature and the optimism that drives conservationists to continue their work despite the challenges.

To connect with Trout Unlimited: @troutunlimited

Want to learn to hunt or fish? https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chris Wood and His Work
02:58 Early Fishing Memories and Connection to Nature
05:54 The Transition from Fishing to Conservation
08:54 The Roadless Rule and Its Importance
11:50 Current Challenges Facing the Roadless Rule
19:35 Rallying Voices for Conservation
22:03 The Importance of Roadless Areas
23:07 Connecting with Decision Makers
27:20 Organizing for Conservation
30:33 Restoring River Ecosystems
34:49 The Resilience of Native Fish
48:55 Optimism in Conservation
58:30 The Call to Action
...more
1h 11min
March 11, 2026Unlocking Ecological Leadership: Transform Your Perception and Impact w/ Ned Weidner
Unlocking Leadership Through the Wisdom of Plants and Ecosystems
In this episode, Ned Weidner explores the surprising connection between ecological systems and effective leadership. Discover how learning to see the complexity in nature can transform your perception, decision-making, and ability to lead with clarity and resilience.
Key Topics:
The ecological importance of biodiversity in alpine meadows and its parallels to organizational resilience
How oversimplification and "plant blindness" hinder our understanding of complex systems
The role of perception, attunement, and relational awareness in leadership
Practical insights from learning plant identification to develop leadership skills
The dangers of monocultures in ecosystems and organizations and the benefits of diversity
Techniques for training perception and developing nuanced judgment
The importance of slow observation and relationship mapping for leaders
How societal and political structures collapse under oversimplified narratives
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The connection between ecological systems and leadership
00:19 - The ecological importance of alpine meadows and biodiversity
00:31 - How diversity preserves water flow and ecosystem resilience
01:00 - The role of complexity in ecological functions and societal systems
01:29 - Oversimplification and "green stuff": misunderstanding ecosystems
02:16 - The impact of ideological narratives on perception
02:59 - How perception collapse leads to societal division
03:29 - The importance of understanding relationships and system complexity
03:43 - Leadership as navigating complex, intertwined systems
04:28 - Flattening complexity in political and social narratives
05:07 - Learning plants as a method to train perception and attunement
05:35 - Developing sensory awareness through plant identification
06:24 - Recognizing relationships and diversity in ecosystems
07:03 - The concept of monocultures and their fragility
07:33 - Resilience in diverse ecosystems versus monocultures
08:09 - Societal monocultures and echo chambers in thought
08:40 - Collapse of fragile thought structures under stress
09:07 - The importance of interspecies dependencies and resilience
09:36 - Shifting perception in nature hikes from surface to depth
10:00 - Learning plant relationships and traditional uses
10:27 - The transformative moment of connecting with wild nature
11:12 - How observing relationships creates resilient perspectives
11:51 - Learning plants to enhance perception and leadership judgment
12:21 - The connection between nuanced perception and good decision-making
13:03 - The societal crisis: Loss of perception, attunement, and relationships
13:39 - Fast-paced media training causes superficial understanding
14:10 - Slow observation as the key to developing leadership skills
14:40 - Rebuilding attention and attunement through plant learning
15:08 - The difference between ideological and ecological leadership
15:39 - Invitation to deepen perception skills through outdoor programs
16:07 - Final thoughts: The path to better leadership is through understanding nature
Connect with Ned:
IG @stepintoyourwild
TikTok @stepintoyourwild
YouTube @stepintoyourwild
...more
22min
February 27, 2026What Military, Ranching, and Wilderness Teach You about Leadership with James Nash
Discover how leadership skills developed in the military, ranching, and wilderness survival translate across life, emphasizing trust, decision-making, and resilience. James Nash shares his journey from tank commander to ranch owner and guide, highlighting the importance of fundamentals, risk-taking, and embracing failure.

Want to learn to hunt or fish? https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/
Connect with James: James Nash's profile
Resources & Links
In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick
Endurance by Alfred Lansing
Six Ranch
The Wild Lab Podcast
Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to James Nash and the history of Six Ranch
01:02 - The rugged landscape surrounding the Six Ranch and Hell’s Canyon
03:55 - Military service, combat experience, and lessons in leadership under stress
04:51 - Transition from war to ranching and guiding adventures globally
06:15 - What makes Hell’s Canyon unique and challenging terrain navigation
07:55 - Applying military fundamentals to ranch work and wilderness guides
09:08 - Trust-building and communication as core leadership skills
11:21 - Balancing democratic and autocratic leadership styles
13:10 - Making quick decisions at 70% certainty and avoiding analysis paralysis
16:26 - Overcoming decision fears through small, low-stakes choices like restaurant orders
17:36 - The importance of after-action reviews and learning from hunts and huntsmen
18:28 - Embracing failure as a learning tool and encouraging initiative in others
21:06 - The significance of seizing opportunities before time runs out
22:02 - The critical role of decision speed in hunting success and personal confidence
24:41 - The value of hunting not just for meat, but for knowledge transfer
25:42 - Defining success in guiding: process over outcome
28:13 - Hard work, perseverance, and multiple endeavors as keys to growth
31:01 - Allowing mistakes to foster development rather than overprotecting
33:45 - The importance of stories in understanding truth and history
36:07 - Lessons from "In the Heart of the Sea" and "Endurance" about leadership and resilience
38:21 - The interplay of fiction and nonfiction in grappling with universal truths
40:55 - The influence of stories and metaphors in human understanding
42:31 - The relationship with death shaped by ranching, hunting, and military service
44:25 - Ecosystem balance and the role of life and death in nature’s cycle
45:42 - Recognizing death as a part of life’s shared experience and its societal impact
50:06 - Small steps to reconnect with nature and the cycle of life and death
51:19 - Advice for young leaders: seize opportunities, act decisively, and start now
52:44 - Connecting with James for hunting, ranching, or ranch consultancy
53:20 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to support the podcast
...more
1h 3min
February 15, 2026 Protecting the Boundary Waters with Ingrid Lyons
In this conversation, Ingrid Lyons, the executive director of Save the Boundary Waters, discusses the current threats facing the Boundary Waters wilderness area in Minnesota due to proposed copper mining. She shares her personal connection to the area, the ecological and economic implications of mining, and the importance of public engagement in protecting this vital natural resource. Our conversation emphasizes the need for collective action to safeguard the Boundary Waters for future generations.
To take action for the BWCAW: https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/
Want to learn wilderness skills and connect with the land? https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Boundary Waters and Ingrid Lyons
02:57 Ingrid's Early Memories and Connection to the Boundary Waters
05:54 Transition from Visitor to Advocate for the Boundary Waters
08:43 The Unique Experience of the Boundary Waters Wilderness
11:47 Current Threats to the Boundary Waters: Mining Issues
14:53 Understanding the Mining Controversy and Its Implications
17:32 The Environmental Risks of Copper Mining
22:19 The Pollution Dilemma of Copper Mining
23:18 Ecological and Cultural Risks of Mining
27:55 Economic Impacts of the Boundary Waters
29:16 Advocacy for Protection of the Boundary Waters
31:51 The Broader Implications of Mining Legislation
35:22 Potential Consequences of Mining Approval
37:54 A Vision for the Future of the Boundary Waters
...more
41min
February 05, 2026 The Heart of Botany: A Conversation with Nick Jensen of CNPS
In this conversation, Nick Jensen and I explore the significance of plants and ecosystems, discussing topics such as plant blindness, the importance of native plants, and the role of conservation in public lands. Nick emphasizes the need for observation in nature, personal connections to plants, and the impact of community advocacy on conservation efforts. Our discussion also touches on the beauty of ecosystems, challenges posed by invasive species, and the importance of engaging with nature in everyday life.
To connect with California Native Plant Society: https://www.instagram.com/california_native_plants/

Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

...more
1h 11min
January 26, 2026 Walking to Listen with Andrew Forsthoefel
In this conversation, Andrew Forsthoefel shares his transformative journey of walking across America, exploring themes of fatherhood, self-discovery, and the importance of listening. He discusses the challenges and joys of new fatherhood, the balance between work and family life, and the significance of creating heart-centered spaces in education. Andrew emphasizes the healing power of vulnerability and the role of mentorship in personal growth, ultimately highlighting that listening is an act of love that fosters deeper connections between individuals.
To connect with Andrew: https://littlecourtyard.substack.com/

Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

...more
1h 5min
January 19, 2026 Exploring the Depths of Plant Medicine with Garett Renon
In this conversation, Garrett Renon shares his transformative journey from a career in the military industrial complex to becoming a plant medicine practitioner and coach. He discusses the importance of gratitude, presence, and celebrating small wins in life. Garrett delves into his experiences with ayahuasca and the Shipibo tradition, emphasizing the significance of building relationships with plant spirits through the dieta process. He highlights the need for focus and depth in personal growth, as well as the importance of safety and responsibility in plant medicine practices. The conversation culminates in the introduction of Garrett's new program aimed at integrating mind, body, and spirit for holistic personal development.

To connect with Garett: @unpluggedhuman.life

Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.
...more
1h 10min
January 07, 2026 Hunting Makes Us Human with Ned Weidner
In this episode, I explore the question of why we hunt, and delve into the deeper reasons that connect hunting to our humanity. I discuss the evolutionary, psychological, and philosophical implications of hunting, emphasizing its role in shaping our species and our relationships with nature. The conversation sets the stage for a multi-part series that will further investigate how hunting influences our identity and existence.
Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.
...more
50min
December 19, 2025 Empowering Women in Hunting: A Conversation with Jess Johnson
In this episode, Jess Johnson shares her journey as a woman in the hunting community, discussing her upbringing in nature, the importance of reciprocity in conservation, and the unique challenges women face in the hunting world. She emphasizes the role of intuition in hunting, the emotional journey of new hunters, and the need for diverse voices in the hunting community. Jess also highlights the mission of Artemis, a program aimed at empowering women in hunting and conservation efforts, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with others.
To connect with Jess: @jesscjohnson_

Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

...more
1h 14min
December 13, 2025 Modern Rites of Passage with Adam Jackson
In this conversation, Adam Jackson, co-founder of Sacred Sons, shares his journey from a troubled youth to a leader in the men's movement. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of gratitude in personal growth, and the need for modern rites of passage for young men. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, service, and authenticity in creating a culture of brotherhood. Adam reflects on the impact of grief and loss, the legacy of service, and the vision for Sacred Sons as a movement that fosters connection and healing among men.
To connect with Adam and Sacred Sons: @sacredsons

Stay Connected 
Instagram: @stepintoyourwild

Want to join a Primal Hunt or Fishing Trip?
Walker School of the Wild: https://www.stepintoyourwild.com/walker-school-of-the-wild.html

Subscribe to The Wild Lab
 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6TzHzFi8lkaxIqyJDwoAet?si=33d247444d3d4042
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-lab/id1816620068
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@stepintoyourwild

Please like, share, and follow:  If this episode stirred something in you, send it to a friend.

...more
1h 10min

FAQs about The Wild Lab:

How many episodes does The Wild Lab have?

The podcast currently has 39 episodes available.