The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast

What does it mean to really notice the world around us?In this episode of The World We Want, host Gerry Ellis speaks with poet and nature writer Aimee Nezhukumatathil about curiosity, attention, and the role that observation plays in environmental education and our relationship with the natural world.Aimee’s work explores the connections between poetry, science, nature, and memory, and how naming plants, animals, and landscapes helps us build a deeper connection to the places where we live. Her latest book, Night Owl, looks at the natural world after dark and invites readers to slow down, listen, and rediscover a sense of wonder and curiosity about the living world around them.This conversation explores the quiet heart of environmental education—not just learning facts about the environment, but learning how to pay attention, how to ask questions, and how to remain curious about the world throughout our lives.We talk about nature writing, teaching, curiosity, naming species, childhood wonder, and how observation can lead to care, connection, and lifelong learning.This episode is about noticing, curiosity, poetry, and our shared relationship with the living world.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

What does it mean to fall in love with nature—and why does that love matter for the future of our planet? In this episode of The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast, host Gerry Ellis sits down with Sean Southey, CEO of the Canadian Wildlife Federation and longtime champion of nature-based education, to explore how love and connection form the foundation of lasting change. Sean shares powerful stories about how nature-based education transforms not only classrooms, but also communities, shaping how we live, lead, and care for the world around us. This conversation reveals why fostering a culture of care begins with the simple act of helping people connect—and fall in love—with nature. Sean guides listeners through the stages of reflection from childhood memories of wild play to global movements like Nature for All and Outdoor Grannies, from that one teacher who planted seeds of connection with nature to the potential for a more caring and connected community spanning countries and continents.Join us as we hear from someone whose confidence in love’s ability to change the world and our relationship to it is both inspiring and activating: “When you have that continued immersive experience in nature, your learning outcomes get better. Your health outcomes get better. Your empathy, anxiety, your trauma all go down. Nature's an incredible healer. Nature's also a teacher. It's also a classroom. It is a soother. A calmer and a stimulator. So what I'm advocating a lot more for is to recognize that we need more nature in the classroom, and we need to put the classroom more into nature. It's a very simple but profound idea, and the best ideas are both simple and profound.”Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

How can environmental education (EE) serve as a bridge in our increasingly fractured society? Filmmakers James Parker and Juliet Grable are exploring a powerful question through their upcoming documentary, In Our Nature. Drawing on their previous work documenting rural Oregon communities adapting to a changing climate, James and Juliet have discovered that assumptions about populations different from our own often dissolve when people connect over what we share: the planet. In Our Nature investigates how environmental education is one of our most effective tools for building community and finding common ground across perceived divides. Learn more about James and Juliet's work and find the educator resources and insights that demonstrate how environmental education can create bridges and connect communities. Visit https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/James-Parker-Juliet-Grable/Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

In this special Earth Day episode of The World We Want, host Gerry Ellis is joined by Judy Braus, Executive Director of NAAEE and longtime leader in the environmental education field, to talk about how education fuels action, connection, and a sense of possibility in the face of our biggest challenges.Access the resources, webinars, and podcasts referenced by Judy and Gerry by visiting https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Earth-Day-2025.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

For many teens, finding a place where they truly belong can be life-changing. CJ Greco knows this firsthand. Having grown up in zoo education programs and after a voyage of self-discovery halfway around the world, CJ has found a safe space to explore, learn, and be herself. Now, as a teen program manager at Lincoln Park Zoo, CJ is creating that same sense of place for young people stepping into the world of conservation.Teen volunteer programs aren’t just about learning science—they’re about finding a place where you can be yourself.CJ Greco shares how Lincoln Park Zoo’s Teen Program provides teens with hands-on learning experiences that deepen their connection to wildlife, conservation, and community engagement. With a literal lifetime of experience, NAAEE 30 Under 30 CJ highlights the transformative impact of mentorship in environmental education, guiding teens toward careers in science, conservation, and education. This episode explores how creating space for youth in zoo programs just like CJ’s can foster a sense of belonging, safety, and long-lasting passion for conservation. Learn more about CJ's journey and discover tools and resources for educators by visiting https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/CJ-Greco.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

Turning universal challenges into local solutions through environmental education, two young African leaders, Harrison Ashangwa and Ritchie Tusabe, are keeping EE relevant and thriving through youth-led initiatives. Harrison and Ritchie both grew up in African countries where environmental education is part of daily life—as knowledge passed down from elders and incorporated into everyday care for their land and communities.So what inspired these two young men along their paths to become educators and organizational leaders for thousands of youth and adults across the continent? Join The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast Episode 9 to find out!Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

How can a student’s future be impacted when a scientist passionate about education steps into the classroom? Stefan Moss, an environmental scientist and educator, joins host Gerry Ellis to discuss how he transforms complex science principles into engaging, hands-on learning experiences, fostering both hope and awe in young learners. From his early days growing up in the Bahamas to working with middle schoolers in Georgia, Stefan shares how curiosity and representation can change the way young people see themselves—and their future careers in science.Visit https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Stefan-Moss to learn more about Stefan and The World We Want. Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

Delve into how environmental education programs have evolved from lessons of awareness to calls to action.  Join host Gerry Ellis in this thought-provoking conversation with Kathy McGlauflin and Gus Medina, examining how these shifts, along with the changes in methods and technology, have shaped the field and what it means for connecting people to nature in a modern world. Find resources and teaching materials that address these very concepts by visiting https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Gus-Medina-Kathy-McGlauflin.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

How can humor break down barriers and ignite hope in the face of climate change? Join comedian and climate educator Esteban Gast as he reveals how comedy can inspire climate awareness and action. From navigating diverse audiences to building bridges through laughter and shared experiences, Esteban and his cohort of comedians bring fresh perspectives on hope and creativity in times of real challenge. In this episode of The World We Want, Esteban takes us on a journey of blending comedy and education to address climate change. Learn how his innovative approach helps foster understanding and inspire action in unexpected and meaningful ways.Visit https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Esteban-Gast to learn more about Esteban's work and explore resources on creative thinking and climate communication for educators.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

How can we rethink the role of nonformal education and conservation spaces to build deeper connections with the world around us? In this episode of The World We Want, Dr. Kathayoon Khalil shares how breaking barriers, building connections, and fostering empathy can create a brighter future for people and the planet. She also discusses the value of conservation educators embracing their full identities—beyond their roles in environmental education—to bring fresh perspectives and resilience to the work they do.Visit https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Kathayoon-Khalil to learn more about Kathayoon and The World We Want. Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

Effective education doesn't happen accidentally. Fred Rogers, beloved educator, television personality, and friend to millions through the TV screen, knew this. His thoughtful approach to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood was grounded in science, pedagogy, and a deep understanding of children’s emotional and intellectual needs. In this episode of The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast, Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski invite us into The Neighborhood and Mister Rogers’ meticulous method for inspiring curiosity and wonder, key states of mind for fostering learning in environmental education.From using digital tools and hands-on classroom activities to simply saying, "I noticed you were wondering about...," educators today are able to spark the same sense of discovery Mister Rogers instilled across generations. Gregg and Ryan discuss how Fred's influence extends beyond the screen into their own lives as parents, shaping their approach to raising children with an emphasis on wonder and intentionality. This heartfelt conversation reminds us that Fred's legacy is alive both in the lessons he taught and in the way his approach to care, curiosity, and kindness continue to inspire families and educators alike.Learn more about Gregg, Ryan, and The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast at https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Gregg-Behr-Ryan-RydzewskiSend us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

Dr. Vik Mohan speaks of his lifelong journey of stewardship, healing, listening, and community building in this episode of The World We Want: the NAAEE Podcast. Find out more about Vik's work in Madagascar, across Africa, and within, as he and host Gerry Ellis discuss what it takes for meaningful partnerships and on a personal level, the well-being that supercharges the work he and other conservation leaders pursue. Listen in on the conversation that highlights the value of integrating diverse disciplines, fostering deep, sustained community connections, and embracing a holistic view of well-being in environmental work. To see more of Vik's passion for well-being, conservation, and wellness both personal and planetary, watch his TEDx talk or connect on LinkedIn.Learn more about Vik and The World We Want at https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/vik-mohan. Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

A key component of effective environmental education is working with the communities you're helping, even letting them lead. Joy Munthali, founder of Green Girls Platform, speaks to the process that has led to meaningful and longlasting partnerships both with communities and funders."We need education that works for young people, education that works for children, and education that works in our context. And the only way we can learn that is if we are connected, if we have the networks that we need. "As Joy details, part of strong partnerships in mitigating the effects of climate change is creating a safe space for the community to drive solutions. If an organization provides a solution that doesn't fit the culture of the people receiving it, the solution won't be successful and the community won't feel the benefits of those efforts."If we have a space that they can just come and share what they think works or what the wildest dream is, and then make that happen, they are assured that this is something that is going to help them to enjoy their human rights." Learn more about Joy and The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast at https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/joy-hayley-munthaliSend us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!

Explore the urban wilderness with conservation educator Jaime González as he talks about the evolution of the conservation field as well as his own growth as an educator. Having grown up in Houston, Texas, Jaime shares about the impact a "nature-deprived" community has on our perception of where beauty, wonder, and yes, conservation can take place. As Jaime explains, urban forests, prairies, and green spaces have the power to reduce the environmental and health-related inequities brought by the historically dichotomous perception of nature as a separate entity from developed urban areas. A passionate advocate for the One Health approach to conservation, Jaime's journey as a prairie conservationist, environmental educator, and community steward continues to build year over year and across his growing network of individuals of all ages. Jaime delights in connecting youth, particularly of underrepresented groups, to opportunities for meaningful engagement in nature. Read more about Jaime's work on the Student Conservation Association’s Urban Green Page.Follow along with Jaime's passion for art and conservation on LinkedIn and Instagram.Learn more about Jaime González and The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast by visiting https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/Jaime-GonzálezSend us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!