What Can Nature Teach Us Today? Biomimicry, Community & Regenerative Design with Deborah Benham

Guest BioDeborah Benham is a marine biologist, nature connection practitioner, and biomimicry educator based in Dorset, England. She works with Transition Network International supporting community-led action across 60+ countries and is co-creating the Living Systems Alliance—a collaboration bringing biomimicry, permaculture, and regenerative design to communities worldwide. Deborah lives in the UK's largest cohousing community and is passionate about helping people reconnect with nature, learn from living systems, and become positive keystone species in their ecosystems.Resources MentionedDeborah's Work & Resources:Becoming Ecological Citizens Framework: www.deborahbenham.comRestoring Your Ecological Awareness Course (Biomimicry Institute)Living Systems Alliance (launching 2025)Organisations & Networks:Transition Network International: www.transitionnetwork.orgBiomimicry Institute & Ask Nature Database: www.asknature.orgPermaculture Association (UK): www.permaculture.org.ukGlobal Ecovillage Network: www.ecovillage.orgLearn Biomimicry: Self-guided courses and educator resourcesBooks & Influences:Rob Hopkins' work on imagination and transitionDr Lila June: Indigenous perspectives on regenerative human presenceJanine Benyus: Biomimicry pioneer and founderJohn Young: Deep Nature Connection and 8 Shields modelResearch:Zelensky et al. (2023): "Nature Connection as a Pathway to Personal and Planetary Health" (open access)Media & Inspiration:Fix the News Newsletter: Weekly global good news storiesNature Culture Camp: Annual nature connection gathering (UK)Connect with DeborahWebsite: www.deborahbenham.comEmail: Available via websiteConnect with LeonaWebsite: www.leonajohnson.lifeInstagram: @connection.matters.leonaFree Life Compass AssessmentQuotes to Share"I'm not depressed, I just haven't had any nature connection for the last few weeks." - Deborah Benham"Nature doesn't have a bin. There is no waste. Everything becomes food for something else." - Deborah Benham"We're not a plague. We're not a blight. We've just gone off course." - Deborah Benham"That's how culture can arise from nature connection—not forced, not manufactured, but arising naturally when people have the opportunity to gather around the land they're stewarding together." - Deborah Benham"What can I learn from nature today? Just open up your senses and really listen. Notice with curiosity. See what you come back with." - Deborah Benham"We don't need to change everything. We just need to remember. And when we forget—because we will forget—we need to start again." - Leona Johnson"Connection first. Design as nature. Do it together. That's how we create the culture that comes next." - Leona JohnsonCall to ActionTake Deborah's closing question on your next walk: What can I learn from nature today?Then share what you discover—tag us on social media or leave a comment on the blog.Want to go deeper?🎁 Take the free Life Compass Assessment to see where you're thriving and where you're longing for more🌿 Join us at Nature Quest Weekend for an immersive nature connection experience💫 Explore the Life Compass Curriculum for 6 months of connected self-leadership Thank You for Listening!I am so grateful to you for tuning into this episode of Connection Matters Podcast. This is my passion and where I share my hope for a better world. If you enjoyed what you heard, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast on your preferred platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and spread the message of connection, healing and growth!Stay Connected:Join the Community: Be part of our growing community by signing up for my newsletter here. You'll receive updates on new episodes, resources, and exclusive offers!Read the Blog for all the actionable tips, journal prompts and a deeper read of my thoughts and perspectives on connected self-leadership.Follow Me: Stay inspired and connected on social media:  Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn , PintrestConnect with Me: Have thoughts or questions about the episode? I'd love to hear from you! Reach out at [email protected]. I always respond.Find out more about working with me here. Upcoming Events:Don't miss out on upcoming workshops, courses, or events! Stay informed by visiting the website here for more details for details.