Healthier, Happier, Smarter: Wisconsin Voices on the Power of Nature

About Healthier, Happier, Smarter: Wisconsin Voices on the Power of Nature

Welcome to Healthier, Happier, Smarter, a podcast about connecting with Wisconsin’s outdoors through learning, stories, and community. Co-hosts Jaeden and Xia share the voices, places, and ideas shaping environmental education across the state. From schoolyards and forests to youth-led climate action and community programs, this show explores what happens when learning moves beyond the classroom and into the natural world, and the impact that shift has on students and communities alike. Outdoor and environmental education is about more than nature. It is about health, equity, and opportunity. When students learn outside, they build confidence, strengthen their well-being, and develop a deeper connection to the world around them. On Healthier, Happier, Smarter, we amplify voices from across Wisconsin, including students, educators, and leaders who are using the outdoors as a powerful classroom. Tune in to discover how environmental learning is helping build a healthier, happier, and smarter future for everyone.

Publisher

Jaeden Carrasquillo + Xia Lowery

Category

education · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

19 Mar 2026

Latest episode

7 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Oct 2026

   13. Climate Change on Your Health: A Conversation with Pediatrician Dr. Andrew Lewandowski

   Climate change is a health issue, and its impacts are already affecting our families and communities. Jaeden and Xia talk with pediatrician Dr. Andrew Lewandowski about how climate change intersects with health, why healthcare professionals have an important role in educating patients, and what climate change counseling can look like in a clinical setting. They also explore how factors like exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity shape a person’s climate change vulnerability, the importance of addressing systemic inequities, and how healthcare providers can advocate for evidence-based climate solutions. Links + Resources: Healthy Climate Wisconsin: www.healthyclimatewi.org (http://www.healthyclimatewi.org) Resources about climate change & health: World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/ (https://www.who.int/) Columbia University: https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/news/topics/climate-health (https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/news/topics/climate-health) National Academy of Medicine: https://nam.edu/our-work/programs/climate-and-health/communicating-about-climate-change-health/ (https://nam.edu/our-work/programs/climate-and-health/communicating-about-climate-change-health/) Department of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health: https://www.pediatrics.wisc.edu/ (https://www.pediatrics.wisc.edu/)  - You can reach out and ask to talk to Dr. Andrew Lewandowski Wisconsin Department of Health Services: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/) Kate Beardmore: Program Manager for the Climate and Health Program with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Phone: 608-266-9978 Email: katharine.beardmore@dhs.wisconsin.gov (mailto:katharine.beardmore@dhs.wisconsin.gov) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

2. 

   23 Sept 2026

   12. Rooted in Wisdom: Indigenous Teachings with Dr. Kathleen Ratteree and Gabrielle Metoxen

   What does it mean to truly embrace well becoming? Xia talks with Dr. Kathleen Ratteree of Sweet Willow Herbals and Cafe and Gabrielle Metoxen, Oneida Nation Arts Program Supervisor, about the idea of “well becoming” and what it can teach us about health, healing, and connection. Together, they explore how Indigenous knowledge, relationships with plants and the land, art, culture, and community can help us embrace the full spectrum of being human and find meaningful ways to care for ourselves and one another. Links + Resources: Sweet Willow Herbals and Cafe: https://www.sweetwillowwellness.com/ (https://www.sweetwillowwellness.com/) Oneida Nation Arts Program: https://oneida-nsn.gov/divisions/human-services/our-culture/arts-program-2/ (https://oneida-nsn.gov/divisions/human-services/our-culture/arts-program-2/) State Environmental Education Conference: https://www.waee.org/annual-conference (https://www.waee.org/annual-conference) (https://www.waee.org/annual-conference)Lip scrub and sunscreen products made by Gabrielle Mextoxen: https://www.facebook.com/gobeautyglow (https://www.facebook.com/gobeautyglow) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

3. 

   9 Sept 2026

   11. Place-based Learning; Connecting Community, Advocacy, and Youth at Oshkosh North High School

   What happens when students move beyond learning about environmental problems and start becoming part of the solution? Jaeden and Xia talk with Rick Leib, a social studies teacher at Oshkosh North High School, and senior Ella about the school’s Communities program and its student-led environmental projects. From stormwater pollution and plastic waste to outdoor classrooms, biking, and community service, they explore how authentic, place-based learning can help students connect their education to real-world issues, build confidence, discover new career possibilities, and see themselves as change makers in their own communities. Links + Resources: Communities at Oshkosh North: https://www.communitiesonhs.org/ (https://www.communitiesonhs.org/) Wisconsin Stormwater Week: https://www.wistormwater.com/ (https://www.wistormwater.com/) Recycling Excellence Awards: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Recycling/Awards.html (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Recycling/Awards.html) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/communitiesonhs/ (https://www.instagram.com/communitiesonhs/) Bike Osh Event: https://www.facebook.com/bikeosh/ (https://www.facebook.com/bikeosh/) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

4. 

   26 Aug 2026

   10. Wi Gather Outside: Centering Equity, Joy, and Cultural Relevance in Outdoor Spaces

   What does it look like to create meaningful connections between communities and the outdoors? Jaeden and Xia talk with Zaynab Balbeki, founder of Wi Gather Outside (WIGO), about making outdoor experiences more accessible, culturally relevant, and rooted in community. Zaynab shares how her experiences as an educator inspired her to create opportunities for Black, Brown, and Latino communities to explore Wisconsin’s parks and natural spaces, and how those experiences can foster connection, joy, and environmental stewardship. Links + Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wigatheroutside/ (https://www.instagram.com/wigatheroutside/) Read more about Wi Gather Outside’s Eco Justice award and other honorees at: https://www.waee.org/2026-waee-awardees (https://www.waee.org/2026-waee-awardees) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

5. 

   12 Aug 2026

   9. Teaching for Tomorrow: Climate Education in Milwaukee Public Schools

   Preparing students for tomorrow means helping them understand the world they're shaping. Jaeden and Xia sit down with Chelsea Malacara, Sustainability Project Specialist, and Kim Talarico, Climate Education Coach from Milwaukee Public Schools, to discuss how the state's largest school district is weaving climate education and sustainability into everyday learning. They share how community partnerships, outdoor learning, and a district-wide sustainability plan are helping students build a stronger connection to their environment while creating healthier schools, more engaged learners, and a more sustainable future for the next generation. Links + Resources: Find district resolutions and learn more about the Green Schoolyards Project at https://www.milwaukeepublicschools.org/about/strategic-plan/healthy-sustainable-schools (https://www.milwaukeepublicschools.org/about/strategic-plan/healthy-sustainable-schools) Find teaching resources on the Wisconsin Climate Education Hub: https://teachwisconsinclimate.org/ (https://teachwisconsinclimate.org/) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

6. 

   29 Jul 2026

   8. Learning Without Walls: The Magic of FIELD Edventures and Maple Grove Charter School

   Some of the most meaningful learning happens when students step outside the classroom. Jaeden and Xia are joined by Robin Hanson, teaching principal at Maple Grove Charter School, and Sandy Benton, co-founder of FIELD Edventures, to explore how outdoor, place-based learning helps students build curiosity, confidence, and a stronger connection to the world around them. From turning school grounds into living classrooms to sharing practical strategies that educators can implement anywhere, this conversation highlights how learning without walls can inspire students, strengthen communities, and make education more engaging for everyone. Links + Resources: FIELD Edventures Website: https://www.fieldedventures.org/ (https://www.fieldedventures.org/) Maple Grove Charter School Website: https://www.athens1.org/o/mgcs (https://www.athens1.org/o/mgcs) WISELearn Resources: https://wlresources.dpi.wi.gov/ (https://wlresources.dpi.wi.gov/) Environmental Education for Kids (EEK):  https://www.eekwi.org/ (https://www.eekwi.org/) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

7. 

   15 Jul 2026

   7. Empowering Youth to Lead Climate Action with the Dane County Youth Environmental Committee

   Young people are proving that meaningful climate action starts with community. Jaeden and Xia are joined by Nina, Brooke, and Ayelet of the Dane County Youth Environmental Committee (DCYEC) to explore how the student-led organization is empowering youth across Wisconsin to advocate for environmental change through leadership, education, and collaboration. From organizing the annual Dane County Youth Climate Conference and bringing sustainability initiatives back to their schools to connecting peers who may be experiencing climate anxiety, the conversation highlights how giving students opportunities to lead helps build confidence, hope, and lasting impact. Links + Resources: Dane County Youth Environmental Committee: https://www.dcyec.org/ (https://www.dcyec.org/) Citizens’ Climate Lobby: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/ (https://citizensclimatelobby.org/) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

8. 

   1 Jul 2026

   6. Using Nature to Promote Wellness and Equity at Lakeview Elementary

   Lakeview School in Madison is redefining what learning can look like through its Nature-Based Learning Opportunity program, and in this episode, Principal Nu Vang-Vue, Physical Education Teacher James Kersten, and Occupational Therapist Deborah Craig share the profound impact that getting kids outside has on their growth and development. From fostering cooperation, confidence, and a sense of belonging to strengthening the gross motor, fine motor, and sensory foundations needed for classroom success, outdoor learning supports the whole child. The conversation explores how nature-based experiences can create more equitable opportunities for students of all backgrounds and abilities while helping them build meaningful connections with their school, their community, and themselves. Discover why stepping outside the classroom may be one of the most powerful ways to help children become healthier, happier, and smarter. Links + Resources: Follow Lakeview Elementary on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMSDLakeView (https://www.facebook.com/MMSDLakeView) Lakeview Elementary Website: https://lakeview.madison.k12.wi.us/ (https://lakeview.madison.k12.wi.us/) Article about Lakeview Elementary in Capital Times: https://captimes.com/news/education/how-one-madison-school-became-an-outdoor-education-hotspot/article_f92db948-aa8f-4725-b7a8-fdbf03fda529.html (https://captimes.com/news/education/how-one-madison-school-became-an-outdoor-education-hotspot/article_f92db948-aa8f-4725-b7a8-fdbf03fda529.html) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

9. 

   17 Jun 2026

   5. Urban Nature Connection: Addressing Mental Health, Wellness, and Trauma through Outdoor Activity

   Reconnecting people and nature - that is the goal of Urban Nature Connection. Timothy Scott, executive director of Urban Nature Connection based in Milwaukee, experienced a family crisis which set his life off kilter. After seeking help through therapy and trying medications that didn’t work for him, he found peace through nature. What started simply as cutting the grass and gardening, has quickly become respite river walks, bike rides, and leading advocacy for access to nature in his community. Bringing on a board that shared the same vision, like Julian Phifer, they now attend meetings pertaining to green space expansions throughout the city, create events for the black and brown communities of the area to get outside together, and promote health and wellness through nature. Links + Resources: Urban Nature Connection: https://www.urbannatureconnection.com/ (https://www.urbannatureconnection.com/) Urban Nature Connection Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/urban_naturemke/ (https://www.instagram.com/urban_naturemke/) Urban Nature Connection Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/people/Urban-Nature-Connection/61581101892117/ (https://www.facebook.com/people/Urban-Nature-Connection/61581101892117/) Urban Nature Connection LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/urban-nature-connection-mke (https://www.linkedin.com/company/urban-nature-connection-mke) Connect with Timothy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-scott-b1ab5875 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothy-scott-b1ab5875) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors and funding partners. Learn more and become a sponsor at https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters)

10. 

    3 Jun 2026

    4. Honoring Childhood through Nature Play: Weslie Cymerman On Outdoors We Learn (OWL)

    Learning to play outdoors is a learned skill that every child should be able to develop. In today’s episode Weslie Cymerman, founder of Outdoors We Learn (OWL), shares her journey from a nearly 20 year career teaching in the classroom setting, to the creation of her outdoor youth programming. She offers her philosophy of how allowing the opportunity for children to experience nature, and fostering their love for the Earth, leads to resilient children who will be stewards of the land. Having already had a large impact on its local community since its origin in 2020, OWL continues to encourage children of the Madison area to love nature through play! Links + Resources: Outdoors We Learn: https://www.outdoorswelearnmadison.com/ (https://www.outdoorswelearnmadison.com/) Outdoors We Learn Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorswelearn/ (https://www.instagram.com/outdoorswelearn/) Outdoors We Learn Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/outdoorswelearn (https://www.facebook.com/outdoorswelearn) Connect with Weslie: weslie@outdoorswelearnmadison.com (mailto:weslie@outdoorswelearnmadison.com) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors: James E Dutton Foundation: https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/ (https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/) Natural Resources Foundation: https://www.wisconservation.org/ (https://www.wisconservation.org/) WAEE Funding Partners: https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters) Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/ (https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/) If you’d like to become a sponsor, contact us at podcast@waee.org (mailto:podcast@waee.org).

11. 

    20 May 2026

    3. Youth Leading the Way: Chippewa Falls Green Team Turns Environmental Education into Action

    In this episode of Healthier, Happier, Smarter, hosts Jaeden and Xia sit down with the Chippewa Falls Green Team — seniors Zoe, Chloe, and Ellie — to explore how student-led environmental action is transforming their school and community. The trio shares how their mostly student-driven group secured drone pilot licenses, wrote grants to fund a solar panel installation at Camp Nawakwa, and brought hands-on renewable energy lessons to elementary classrooms and energy career fairs. From navigating a failed rooftop solar project at their high school to winning the SoulStock competition and earning the Solar Moonshot grant, the Green Team offers Wisconsin educators an inspiring model of what's possible when young people are given the freedom, mentorship, and resources to pursue passion-driven environmental projects. Links + Resources: Follow the Chippewa Falls Green Team on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chihienvironmentalclub/ (https://www.instagram.com/chihienvironmentalclub/) Follow Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chippewafallsschool (https://www.facebook.com/chippewafallsschool) Show your support for environmental education by becoming a member: waee.org/join (http://waee.org/join) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors: James E Dutton Foundation: https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/ (https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/) Natural Resources Foundation: https://www.wisconservation.org/ (https://www.wisconservation.org/) WAEE Funding Partners: https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters) Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/ (https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/) If you’d like to become a sponsor, contact us at podcast@waee.org (mailto:podcast@waee.org)

12. 

    6 May 2026

    2. Teach It Outside: Principal Justin Nies, PhD, Shares a Schoolwide Approach to Outdoor Learning

    Outdoor learning is a strategic approach to increasing student engagement, strengthening literacy skills, and building connections within a school community. Educator and administrator Dr. Justin Nies shares how Magee Elementary School in the Kettle Moraine School District implemented a year-long initiative to bring learning beyond the classroom. He explains how outdoor spaces can be used intentionally, reflects on his path into leadership, and highlights how a focus on belonging and transparency supported staff and student success. Links + Resources: Fostering Systems for Innovation Summer Institute (Applications due 5/10/26): https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIDPI/bulletins/414ca5b (https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WIDPI/bulletins/414ca5b) Wisconsin DPI Newsletter: https://dpi.wi.gov/news/dpi-connected/subscribe (https://dpi.wi.gov/news/dpi-connected/subscribe) Last Child in the Woods (Book): https://bookshop.org/a/10747/9781565126053 (https://bookshop.org/a/10747/9781565126053) Children & Nature Network: https://www.childrenandnature.org/ (https://www.childrenandnature.org/) Reach Out to Justin Here: niesjustin@kmsd.edu (mailto:niesjustin@kmsd.edu) Show your support for environmental education by becoming a member: waee.org/join (http://waee.org/join) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors: James E Dutton Foundation: https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/ (https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/) Natural Resources Foundation: https://www.wisconservation.org/ (https://www.wisconservation.org/) WAEE Funding Partners: https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters) Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/ (https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/) If you’d like to become a sponsor, contact us at podcast@waee.org (mailto:podcast@waee.org)

13. 

    22 Apr 2026

    1. Growing Connections between Nature and Public Health: A Conversation with Mary Davis Michaud

    A sense of awe might be one of the most powerful teaching tools we have. In this episode of the Happier, Healthier, Smarter Podcast, we’re joined by Mary Michaud, educator, public health professional, and certified horticultural therapist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She shares how her deep connection to nature shaped her career and inspired her to create outdoor learning spaces, while challenging students to rethink traditional school environments. We also explore the science behind why nature matters, from attention restoration theory to the well-being benefits of outdoor learning. Mary offers practical strategies for outdoor classrooms, encourages appropriate risk-taking for children, and shares simple ways to reconnect with nature in everyday life. Links + Resources: Nature Play for Healthy Development Blog: https://medium.com/@MaryMichaudHlth/nature-play-for-healthy-development-be5763bea15a (https://medium.com/@MaryMichaudHlth/nature-play-for-healthy-development-be5763bea15a) What the Robin Knows by Jon Young: https://bookshop.org/a/10747/9780544002302 (https://bookshop.org/a/10747/9780544002302) Follow Mary’s Art on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginkgoartsandletters/ (https://www.instagram.com/ginkgoartsandletters/) Show your support for environmental education by becoming a member: waee.org/join (http://waee.org/join) Follow the show online: Facebook: @WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation (https://facebook.com/WisconsinAssociationforEnvironmentalEducation/) Instagram: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://instagram.com/wisconsinassociationforee/?hl=en) LinkedIn: wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-association-for-environmental-education-inc) YouTube: @wisconsinassociationforee (https://www.youtube.com/@wisconsinassociationforee) View all book recommendations from the podcast: https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter (https://bookshop.org/lists/healthier-happier-smarter) Thank you to our sponsors: James E Dutton Foundation: https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/ (https://www.jameseduttonfoundation.org/) Natural Resources Foundation: https://www.wisconservation.org/ (https://www.wisconservation.org/) WAEE Funding Partners: https://www.waee.org/our-supporters (https://www.waee.org/our-supporters) Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin: https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/ (https://green-and-healthy-schools-wi-dnr.hub.arcgis.com/) If you’d like to become a sponsor, contact us at podcast@waee.org (mailto:podcast@waee.org)

14. 

    19 Mar 2026

    Healthier, Happier, Smarter Trailer

    Season 1 of Healthier, Happier, Smarter: Faces and Places of Wisconsin Environmental Education takes listeners across Wisconsin to explore how environmental learning comes to life in classrooms, communities, natural spaces, and cultural landscapes. Through conversations with educators, youth leaders, public health professionals, and community organizations, we highlight the many ways people are connecting with the outdoors and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. This season features student perspectives, health-focused discussions on the benefits of nature, and a range of episodes uplifting innovation, tradition, equity, and hands-on learning. From early childhood to high school climate action, from cultural connections to outdoor programs, listeners get a broad look at how environmental education supports wellbeing, learning, and community resilience. Season 1 offers stories, insights, and inspiration for anyone passionate about supporting healthy people, healthy schools, and a healthy planet.

Reach and audience

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Contact Healthier, Happier, Smarter: Wisconsin Voices on the Power of Nature

Guest appearances

Books guests

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