Wilderness Within Podcast

About Wilderness Within Podcast

Wilderness Within (WW) is an exploration of inner worlds and landscapes through shared stories, lived wisdom, and honest conversations with changemakers, elders, and visionaries whom I am privileged to call friends. Birthed from a realisation of how radical it is to carry such inspirational humans in my life, this project is an invitation to step beyond the superficial and dive into the depths of our devotions, motivations, and vulnerabilities. Each episode is an unhurried, open share celebrating the triumphs, learnings, and raw honesty of these wonderful souls. From ancient skills practitioner Tamara Wilder on eldership, paleotechnics, and ancestral connection, to organic farming pioneer Jim Barngrover on living soil, native seed saving, and rural community sovereignty, to personal solo meditations recorded on trail walks touching into truth, grief, and deep gratitude, Wilderness Within weaves a tapestry of stories reconnecting us to our spirit and inner self, to one another, and to the land. Hosted by Kai J. Lee, a storyteller, facilitator, and community weaver, this show is an uncommercialised sanctuary dedicated to whānaungatanga (kinship and genuine relationship) and deep listening. Wilderness Within runs alongside Letters at Dawn, my primary devotion on Substack. Together, these creations document a personal evolution of rediscovering identity, standing for truth, and honouring the human experience across past, present, and future. My wish is that these shared stories serve you on your own inner discoveries. Listen & Connect: Website: wildernesswithinpod.com (http://wildernesswithinpod.com) Instagram: @wildernesswithinpod Substack + financial contributions: lettersatdawn.substack.com (http://lettersatdawn.substack.com) WW is an independent, listener-supported project made possible by the ongoing generosity of our community. Deepest gratitude to my brothers Scott Hanson and Carlos Militante for the original soundtrack and logo, and to all the past patrons, clients, and friends who have sustained this passion project across the years. Note on availability: Wilderness Within is available on Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms, except Spotify, which has been intentionally removed due to their funding of military startups. Mauri ora (to life, health, and the living essence in us all), - Kai J. Lee 李曉敦

Publisher

Kai J. Lee

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Oct 2023

Latest episode

13 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Jim Barngrover - Soil, Sovereignty, and Seeds of Resilience (WW 09)

   What does it truly mean to provide for a community and care for the earth beneath our feet? In this episode of Wilderness Within, Kai J. Lee sits down with elder, lifelong organic grower, and sustainable agriculture pioneer Jim Barngrover at his home in Helena, Montana. Recorded during the summer of 2023 against the backdrop of the landmark Held v. Montana youth climate trial taking place just blocks away, this expansive kitchen-table dialogue traverses decades of grassroots organising, personal epiphanies, and the enduring power of local food sovereignty. Together, Kai and Jim trade travel stories from Mexico - from hitchhiking in Baja California with goats and meeting conservation icon Katie Lee to navigating military checkpoints during the 1994 Zapatista uprising in Chiapas - exploring how those journeys shaped their worldviews on native seeds, living culture, language, and community self-determination. Jim opens up about the personal tragedy that sparked his life's work: watching his father develop early-onset Parkinson's from toxic pesticide exposure on their Wyoming family farm. From the decline of rural Main Streets to the rise of organic pulse crops on Montana's High Line, Jim shares why local action, seed saving, and intergenerational stewardship are the ultimate antidotes to corporate monopolisation and systemic apathy. "Treat the soil well, it'll treat you well. It'll sustain life forms that enrich all." — Jim Barngrover In this episode, we explore: 00:00 - Intro: Overcoming Perfectionism & Meeting Jim Barngrover 02:59 - Early Travels in Mexico, Breaching Whales & Katie Lee 09:46 - Chiapas & Navigating the 1994 Zapatista Uprising 19:38 - Street Performers, Michoacán & Indigenous Sovereignty 27:52 - The Full Moon Epiphany: A Shovel, Frogs & Living Soil 35:40 - The Catalyst: Pesticide Poisoning and the Path to Organic Ag 39:42 - Meeting John Wicks in Chester & The Grasshopper Incident 42:57 - Support Wilderness Within & Letters at Dawn (Mid-Roll) 45:01 - Hollowed-Out Highline Towns & Rebuilding Local Food Systems 56:34 - Held v. Montana: Youth Taking the State to Court 01:08:08 - Redefining the "Provider" & Cultivating Community 01:14:22 - Reasons for Hope: Next-Gen Farmers & Soil Crawls 01:22:35 - Seed Saving, Diversity & Treating the Soil Well 01:28:08 - Outro: Held v. Montana Legal Update & Final Reflections Connect & Learn More: Letters at Dawn on Substack: Support this independent creation and subscribe to Kai's substack at https://lettersatdawn.substack.com/ (https://lettersatdawn.substack.com/) The Dandelion Effect Podcast: Listen to Jim’s previous deep dive with Andy Vantrease at the Feathered Pipe Ranch that speaks more on how he got onto this path https://featheredpipe.com/dandelion-effect-podcast/jim-barngrover-regenerating-food-soil-community/ (https://featheredpipe.com/dandelion-effect-podcast/jim-barngrover-regenerating-food-soil-community/) Wilderness Within: Explore other episodes with changemakers and dear friends at http://wildernesswithinpod.com/ (http://wildernesswithinpod.com/)

2. 

   17 Mar 2026

   Andy Vantrease - On Following Your Heart, Work as Devotion & the Cyclic Nature of Everything (WW 08)

   Some conversations take time to find their moment. This one was recorded in Mazunte, México in January 2023, just over three years ago now, waiting for the right container to release it into. Andy and I were housemates on the Oaxacan coast. We'd wake up, walk to morning meditations at a local centre, drift down to the beach, cook together, and marvel at the plants and wildlife around our tropical setting. It was one of those rare pockets of life where everything seemed to slow down just enough to actually feel it. Andy Vantrease is a writer, storyteller, and women's coach who has spent nearly two decades honing a craft that, on the surface, looks like writing or interviewing, but underneath is really about creating the conditions for people to be truly heard. From freelance journalism to producing the Dandelion Effect Podcast at Feathered Pipe Ranch in Montana, to one-on-one story mapping sessions, to facilitating circles for nurses in California, her work kept finding new forms while staying rooted in the same thread: helping people see their own magic. Since we recorded that conversation, Andy’s path has taken another turn. She now works specifically with women, educating on menstrual health, cycle wisdom and female body literacy. She is a student of the Blood Mysteries School and holds classes, circles and private sessions that help women come home to their bodies and understand the power of their biological design. So while what you’ll hear is Andy as she was in early 2023, the roots of everything she's moved toward since are all here, present and growing. We talk about what it means to build a creative livelihood without being trapped inside a label. The difference between a side gig and a calling, and the slow, unglamorous process of learning to price yourself as a whole person rather than just a finished product. The cyclic nature of life and how things, projects, relationships and chapters all want to die so something new can grow. Seva, selfless service, and why Andy isn't convinced she believes in it anymore. Through an NGO in rural Nepal where we first met, we also dove into what it taught us about reciprocity, sustainability, and the real cost of burning out in the name of devotion. And then, near the end, I share three words from a handpainted sign I came across on a mountain road in the Indian Himalayas, while bike touring in my 30th year. Words that had been living in me for years by then, and that Andy receives with the kind of quiet recognition that tells you something has landed. "Work is devotion." Love you, Andy! <3 Follow Andy and her work via: https://andyvantrease.com/ (https://www.andyvantrease.com/) - Wilderness Within (WW) is an exploration of inner worlds through shared stories and lived experiences with changemakers and visionaries whom I get to call friends. The project was birthed out of the realisation of radical it is to have such inspirational people in my life, and the interest to dive beyond the superficial and into the depths of one's devotions and motivations in life. Follow and engage: http://wildernesswithinpod.com/ (http://wildernesswithinpod.com/) @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) WW is possible due to the ongoing financial and spiritual support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)) and fans like yourselves. Hat tip to Scott Hanson & Carlos Militante for the beautiful soundtrack. Gratitude. See you again.

3. 

   9 Aug 2025

   Alyson Noele Sagala - Making Meaning and Letting Go as a Creator (WW 07)

   "Living with openness isn’t easy, but it’s the only way I feel truly connected." In this intimate, firelit conversation recorded in the oak woodlands of Mendocino, I sit down with someone who has long felt like a little sister to me - Alyson. We’ve shared many chapters over the years, from our time living and working in Nepal to weaving our own creative paths through life. What we spoke about in 2023 still holds weight today, perhaps even more so in this ever-accelerating world. Together, we unpack themes of identity, ego, creativity, and care. Alyson reflects on growing up Filipino-American in San Jose, California, finding healing through gardening and natural dyeing, and wrestling with the writer’s journey - the guilt, the fixation, the fear. We talk candidly about the shadow side of service, and the ever-present tug between doing what we love and doing what we think will make us lovable. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the cycles we move through - in art, in life, in healing. It's a timestamp of where we were, and a torchlight for the path still unfolding. Connect with Alyson on Instagram: @alysonnoele (instagram.com/alysonnoele/ (https://www.instagram.com/alysonnoele/)) (https://www.instagram.com/alysonnoele/)) - Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Support this podcast (and more): patreon.com/subtledream (https://patreon.com/subtledream) Supporter-exclusive video version of this podcast: https://www.patreon.com/posts/wilderness-ww-07-135769600 (https://www.patreon.com/posts/wilderness-ww-07-135769600) Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Special thanks also to Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true!

4. 

   26 Jun 2025

   Scott Hanson - Becoming the Man, Husband, and Father He Had Journaled About (WW 06)

   Host interviews Scott Hanson about his journey of personal growth, reflecting on his experiences in Nepal, career changes, and preparing for fatherhood, highlighting the importance of community and intentional living.

5. 

   15 May 2025

   Kai J. Lee - Becoming the Storyteller: A Walk Through Truth, Grief, and Gratitude (WW 05)

   In this deeply personal solo episode, yours truly, Kai J., return to one of the lands that raised me—Los Angeles—to walk, reflect, and speak aloud the truths that have shaped my latest chapter. Through spontaneous storytelling on the trail, I explore what it means to finally meet the hero I've been searching for: myself. From honouring ancestral roots and interviewing my parents on camera for the first time, to shedding victimhood and stepping into authorship of my own life story, this is an intimate meditation on privilege, presence, and the power of becoming our own witness. Blending ancestral reverence with humble awe for modern miracles, I invite all listeners into a moment of grounded gratitude and radical self-honesty. This episode is a reminder that storytelling isn’t just for others—it’s for the future self, too. Whether we're in transition, healing family dynamics, or redefining our own path, this episode holds space for the question: What story are we here to tell—and are we brave enough to be its protagonist? Kai J.'s website: subtledream.com (http://subtledream.com) Instagram: @subtledream (https://instagram.com/subtledream) Newsletter: subtledream.kit.com/profile (http://subtledream.kit.com/profile) Patreon to support my newsletter & this podcast: patreon.com/subtledream (https://patreon.com/subtledream) - Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) on Instagram. Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/scout.rockwell/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true!

6. 

   12 Feb 2025

   Tamara Wilder - The Journey of Becoming an Elder and Ancient Skills Teacher (WW 04)

   After a hiatus, we're back! This episode features a very special guest and friend, Tamara Wilder. Tamara became fascinated by ancient living skills in at age 19 when she attended an Ancient Living Skills gathering. She was “hooked” and quickly began incorporating the practice of skills into her daily experience. Ever since, she has been dedicating her life to enjoying, learning, researching, experimenting with, writing about and teaching Paleo Technologies through a variety of programs, workshops & demonstrations on a range of skill topics at a plethora of locations through her company Paleotechnics. Now, over 30 years later, she runs programs in stringmaking, firemaking, rope making & hunting technology and other fiber arts for grade school students all around Northern California as well as adult workshops in the Pacific Northwest and is co-author of the book Buckskin: The Ancient Art of Braintanning, a series of Paleotechnics Handbooks and numerous chapters in other books. Tamara's offerings, information, and contact can be found via https://www.paleotechnics.com (https://www.paleotechnics.com) Her patreon: https://www.patreon.com/paleotechnics (https://www.patreon.com/paleotechnics) The Spirit Weavers gathering: https://spiritweaversgathering.com/ (https://spiritweaversgathering.com/) -- Wilderness Within (WW) is possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or NordVPN discounts being offered is thanks to the few dollars that my supporters pitch in each month or year. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/creaturehour/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. A shoutout to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Reiki C., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Delvin S., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Gautier B., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Ryan L., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true.

7. 

   29 Jan 2024

   Beth Huggins - Learnings from 7 years of service in Nepal (WW 03 )

   In this episode, I speak with Beth Huggins amongst the hills of coastal Ecuador on land being stewarded and restored by Regeneration Field Institute. Beth believes in development work that intimately considers unique community and individual needs with a systemic and holistic approach. I recall her soaking up the book (amongst countless other books) 'How Can I Help?' while living and working together in Nepal. She says "The concept of service in my mind is that you just show up, day after day. You have no expectations. You have no agenda. You are there to support life." When I asked about the cultural barrier of working in Nepal, "I never imagined I'd spend 7 years in a place. But 7 years (is what) it's taken me to understand the background of those cultural challenges. To understand that, 'oh, even if I don't like this power dynamic that exists' when we work with communities, I don't really get to choose this - it's their power dynamic. It's their culture... All I get to have a say in is how I get to spend my life minutes to support other people to have a say in that - whose space it is." We also speak into sacrifices, challenges, patience, and of inspiring people in Beth's life who have guided and positively impacted her. Connect w/ Beth via @bugggins (https://www.instagram.com/bugggins/) (https://instagram.com/bugggins/) and her work @consciousimpact (https://www.instagram.com/consciousimpact/) (https://instagram.com/consciousimpact/) and @regenerationfieldinstitute (https://www.instagram.com/regenerationfieldinstitute/) (https://instagram.com/regenerationfieldinstitute/) - On the next episode - we return to California to hear from an incredible teacher and friend. - Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) on Instagram. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.melissakaitlyncarter.com/makingaudiomagic) for her editing & production magic. Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/scout.rockwell/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)!

8. 

   29 Jan 2024

   WW 03 Beth Huggins - Learnings from 7 years of service in Nepal

   Greetings, and happy new year! In this episode, I speak with Beth Huggins amongst the hills of coastal Ecuador on land being stewarded and restored by Regeneration Field Institute. This conversation was recorded in June '22. Beth believes in development work that intimately considers unique community and individual needs with a systemic and holistic approach. I recall her soaking up the book (amongst countless other books) 'How Can I Help?' while living and working together in Nepal. She says "The concept of service in my mind is that you just show up, day after day. You have no expectations. You have no agenda. You are there to support life." When I asked about the cultural barrier of working in Nepal, "I never imagined I'd spend 7 years in a place. But 7 years (is what) it's taken me to understand the background of those cultural challenges. To understand that, 'oh, even if I don't like this power dynamic that exists' when we work with communities, I don't really get to choose this - it's their power dynamic. It's their culture... All I get to have a say in is how I get to spend my life minutes to support other people to have a say in that - whose space it is." We also speak into sacrifices, challenges, patience, and of inspiring people in Beth's life who have guided and positively impacted her. Connect with Beth via @bugggins (https://www.instagram.com/bugggins/) and follow her work @consciousimpact (https://www.instagram.com/consciousimpact/) + @regenerationfieldinstitute (https://www.instagram.com/regenerationfieldinstitute/) -- On the next episode - we move out of Latin America and return north to the Pacific Northwest on the edge of the Salish Sea where I used to reside - Seattle. I sit down and have a conversation with a long-time friend, Jennifer Grasso. -- Wilderness Within (WW) is possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or NordVPN discounts being offered is thanks to the few dollars that my supporters pitch in each month or year. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your fav listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/creaturehour/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.instagram.com/makingaudiomagic/) for her editing & production magic, and the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Reiki C., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Delvin S., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Gautier B., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Ryan L., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true.

9. 

   29 Nov 2023

   Orion Haas - Being human, conscious impact, and purpose through service (WW 02)

   In this episode, I have a connective walk and talk with Orion Haas, a long-time friend, brother, and collaborator amongst the jungle on the outskirts of Tulum, Mexico. Orion speaks into the early months of our friendship, then diving into our time and work in Nepal which brought us into a post-disaster, service-oriented community and the contrast to the living situation then in Tulum as a newly married man to Mariana, who was the guest in the previous episode. He offers insight into their lifestyle decision to live life with as little plastics and inorganic waste as possible while maintaining a connection and sense of responsibility to the natural environment and the elements. In essence, Orion shares why a conscious impact is not only important but vital to living an aligned, value-driven life. We converse about community living and the difference he has experienced when the community has a collective sense of purpose. The conversation then shifts towards the ubiquitous and profound quesiton of "What does it mean to be human?" and his purpose of late of deepening his learnings and practice of Ayurveda, an ancient form of medical sciences from India dating back thousands of years. There is a bonus something at the end of the episode ;) Connect w/ Orion via @orionhaas (https://www.instagram.com/orionhaas) (https://instagram.com/orionhaas (https://www.instagram.com/orionhaas)) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/orion.haas) (https://facebook.com/orion.haas (https://www.facebook.com/orion.haas)). - On the next episode - we move continents to South America to coastal Ecuador where I converse with a dear friend, Beth Huggins. - Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) on Instagram. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.melissakaitlyncarter.com/makingaudiomagic) for her editing & production magic. Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/scout.rockwell/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true!

10. 

    29 Nov 2023

    WW 02 Orion Haas - Being human, conscious impact, and purpose through service

    In this episode, I have another connective walk and talk with Orion Haas, a long-time friend and brother amongst the jungle on the outskirts of Tulum, Mexico. Orion speaks into the early months of our friendship, then diving into our time and work in Nepal which brought us into a post-disaster, service-oriented community and the contrast to the living situation then in Tulum as a newly married man to Mariana, who was the guest in the previous episode. He offers insight into their lifestyle decision to live life with as little plastics and inorganic waste as possible while maintaining a connection and sense of responsibility to the natural environment and the elements. In essence, Orion shares why a conscious impact is not only important but vital to living an aligned, value-driven life. We converse about community living and the difference he has experienced when the community has a collective sense of purpose. The conversation then shifts towards the ubiquitous and profound quesiton of "What does it mean to be human?" and his purpose of late of deepening his learnings and practice of Ayurveda, an ancient form of medical sciences from India dating back thousands of years. There is a bonus something at the end of the episode :) Connect with Orion via Instagam @orionhaas (https://www.instagram.com/orionhaas) & Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/orion.haas). -- On the next episode - we move continents to South America, on the central coast of Ecuador amongst the rolling hills outside of Bahía de Caráquez where I converse with a dear friend, Beth Huggins. -- Wilderness Within (WW) is possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or NordVPN discounts being offered is thanks to the few dollars that my supporters pitch in each month or year. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage with this journey @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/creaturehour/) and Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack. Scott is also a guest on 1 of the upcoming episodes, and Carlos pourted his artistic talent for the WW logo. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.instagram.com/makingaudiomagic/) for her editing & production magic, and the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Reiki C., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Delvin S., Steven M., Steph B. P. Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Gautier B., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Ryan L., Mikey L., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true.

11. 

    2 Nov 2023

    WW 01 Mariana Jimenez Moreno - Connected living through travel, natural building, and community

    In our first full episode with a guest, I have a connective walk and talk with Mariana Jimenez Moreno, a dear friend, natural building teacher, and community living advocate in the tranquil forested art walk at Holistika in Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Mariana speaks into her unique dual-world upbringing in Mexico & the United States, snippets of travel and living experiences in Mexico, France, India, Dominica, and Nepal that have shaped her perspectives and ways of being. We dive into her early curiosities in school on ecologically-sound building methods, and being disappointed by professors and classes' lack of coverage beyond the conventional. Mariana and I also had a round of shares on some of the dilemmas of isolated modern day living and the contrast to the community living we experienced together through Conscious Impact in Nepal since 2015. She paints a picture as to what the near future could look like for her and her husband Orion, on land and in community, connected with the natural cycles, the elements, and leaning into the skillsets and interests of those around them. This episode was recorded in Feburary 2022 during my memorable visit to the region. Follow Mariana's natural building journeys via Instagam, @superadobe.delanait (https://www.instagram.com/superadobe.delanait/). --- On the next episode - another beautiful walk and talk with Mariana's husband and my long time friend, brother, Orion Haas. --- Wilderness Within (WW) is possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or NordVPN discounts being offered is thanks to the few dollars that my supporters pitch in each month or year. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage with this journey @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/creaturehour/) and Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack. Scott is also a guest on 1 of the upcoming episodes, and Carlos pourted his artistic talent for the WW logo. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.instagram.com/makingaudiomagic/) for her editing & production magic, and the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Reiki C., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Delvin S., Steven M., Steph B. P. Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Gautier B., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Ryan L., Mikey L., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true.

12. 

    2 Nov 2023

    Mariana Jimenez Moreno - Connected living through travel, natural building, and community (WW 01)

    In our first full episode with a guest, I have a connective walk and talk with Mariana Jimenez Moreno, a dear friend, natural building teacher, and community living advocate in the tranquil forested art walk at Holistika in Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Mariana speaks into her unique dual-world upbringing in Mexico & the United States, snippets of travel and living experiences in Mexico, France, India, Dominica, and Nepal that have shaped her perspectives and ways of being. We dive into her early curiosities in school on ecologically-sound building methods, and being disappointed by professors and classes' lack of coverage beyond the conventional. Mariana and I also had a round of shares on some of the dilemmas of isolated modern day living and the contrast to the community living we experienced together through Conscious Impact in Nepal since 2015. She paints a picture as to what the near future could look like for her and her husband Orion, on land and in community, connected with the natural cycles, the elements, and leaning into the skillsets and interests of those around them. This episode was recorded in Feburary 2022 during my memorable visit to the region. Follow Mariana's natural building journeys via Instagam, @superadobe.delanait (https://www.instagram.com/superadobe.delanait/) (https://instagram.com/superadobe.delanait/ (https://www.instagram.com/superadobe.delanait/)). - On the next episode - another beautiful walk and talk with Mariana's husband and my long time friend, brother, Orion Haas. - Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) on Instagram. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.melissakaitlyncarter.com/makingaudiomagic) for her editing & production magic. Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/scout.rockwell/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true!

13. 

    13 Oct 2023

    WW 00 Jonathan "Kai" Hiu Tun Lee - The backstory to a new devotion

    In this pilot episode-trailer, I share the "ah-ha" moment of this podcast in the Spring of 2021 during a camping trip with an old friend outside of Los Angeles in southern California, and the months and years that followed of its shaping and materialization. Next up - our first full episode with guest and dear friend, Mariana Jimenez Moreno. --- Wilderness Within (WW) is possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or NordVPN discounts being offered is thanks to the few dollars that my supporters pitch in each month or year. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage with this journey @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/creaturehour/) and Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack. Scott is also a guest on 1 of the upcoming episodes, and Carlos pourted his artistic talent for the WW logo. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.instagram.com/makingaudiomagic/) for her editing & production magic, and the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Reiki C., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Delvin S., Steven M., Steph B. P. Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Gautier B., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Ryan L., Mikey L., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true.

14. 

    13 Oct 2023

    Kai J. Lee - The backstory to a new devotion (WW 00 - Trailer)

    In this pilot episode-trailer, I, Kai J. Lee, share the "ah-ha" moment of this podcast in the Spring of 2021 during a camping trip with an old friend outside of Los Angeles in southern California, and the months and years that followed of its shaping and materialization. Next up - our first full episode with guest and dear friend, Mariana Jimenez Moreno. - Wilderness Within (WW) is made possible due to the ongoing financial support of patreon supporters (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) (https://patreon.com/subtledream (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream)). We are big fans of the value-driven, pay-it-forward model, and the reason why you won't hear razor subscriptions or VPN discounts offered is thanks to the supporters who pitch in each month. Besides becoming a patron, some of the best ways to support this podcast is to share this episode or show with a friend, and to rate WW on Spotify, Apple, or your favourite listening platform. Whatever you are able to do, thank you! Follow & engage @wildernesswithinpod (https://www.instagram.com/wildernesswithinpod/) on Instagram. A shoutout to Melissa Carter (https://www.melissakaitlyncarter.com/makingaudiomagic) for her editing & production magic. Special thanks to Scott Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/scout.rockwell/) & Carlos Militante (https://soundcloud.com/carlos-militante) for the WW soundtrack and logo. Gratitude to the following humans - Paul J., Antoine M., Aiyana B., Deborah C., Rene D., Luke F., Kelly P., Carina F., Kelsea L., Khen R., Kelsey Y., Michael C., Evan S., Kristine S., Lindsay C., Anne G., Yu Shan C., Otis S. Steven T., Steven M., Steph P., Anna W., Camila N., Dana W., Naira d. G., Dora L., Orion H., Michelle K., Steven W., Jackie C. S., Romar S., Peter W., Jacky C., Tsetop S., Frankie L., Jim B. Lisa C., Marek B., Mikey L., Alex A., and more past & present patrons (https://www.patreon.com/subtledream) - in making this dream come true!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

76

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 47 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

38

Social presence

91

YouTube

63

Engagement

32

Contact Wilderness Within Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.