The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast

In this podcast, Jan Smith, homeschool mother of four grown children and Vice President of Homeschool Louisiana, shares insights on how to foster an adventurous spirit in children. Jan believes that the first five years of a child's life are crucial in shaping their perspective on the world. In this regard, she emphasizes the importance of exposing children to new experiences and helping them learn how to overcome their fears.Jan discusses how learning to manage fear is an essential step towards cultivating an adventurous spirit in children. She emphasizes the need to teach children from a young age to face their fears and to recognize their capacity for growth. Jan suggests that parents can do this by allowing children to take risks, but in small doses, so that they can learn what they are capable of and parents can learn to let go.As children grow, Jan believes that parenting is about gradually eliminating their need for parents' constant supervision and guidance. She encourages parents to recognize their children's potential and to allow them to do more than they think they are capable of doing. Jan also encourages parents to use language that inspires bravery in their children, rather than constantly warning them to be careful.Jan acknowledges that, as a mother, contending with her own fears about her children's safety and navigating the judgments of others can be a challenging aspect of fostering an adventurous spirit. She shares her experiences of doing things that other people may have disapproved of but that were essential for her children's growth and development.Jan emphasizes the importance of letting children fail when the risks are low and allowing them to learn from their mistakes. She explains that learning new skills often involves starting out poorly and making mistakes but that the process of falling and getting back up is a valuable experience in itself.In conclusion, Jan emphasizes that creating a culture of adventure in the family means allowing children to take risks and make mistakes and recognizing that their adventures are not ours to control. She shares a personal story of how she felt like something was an unnecessary risk for her child, but it was necessary for his growth. Through her experiences, Jan encourages parents to nurture an adventurous spirit in their children and to embrace the unknown with open arms.You will absolutely adore Jan and I know this episode will encourage and inspire you.If you're interested in meeting us in Louisiana on April 22nd, 2023 just outside of Hammond, Louisiana make sure you sign up for the Homeschool Louisiana conference today! Sometimes tickets are available at the door but they often sell out. There's also a swamp tour you can sign up for that is happening on April 21st. Can't wait to see you there!Click here for more information >> https://www.homeschoollouisiana.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world where we are facing a pandemic of loneliness, it can be easy to feel disconnected from those around us. However, according to Deanna Kitchen, the founder of the Growing Kindness Project, there is a simple yet powerful way to connect with others: through the gift of homegrown flowers.In this episode, Deanna shared her insights on the capacity flowers have to connect with people and how they can be a cure for loneliness. She emphasized that growing and sharing flowers is a simple act of kindness that can have a large impact.Deanna's project is all about making it easy for people to grow and share flowers. It's as simple as planting some flowers, cutting them, and giving them to someone who needs a little extra kindness. She believes that if you have a little bit of dirt and a big heart, you have what it takes to make a difference.During the podcast, Deanna also shared her passion for cut flowers and how they have helped her find courage and connection. She believes that there is nothing quite like the feeling of having flowers in your hand and the joy of giving them to someone else.If you're interested in learning more about the Growing Kindness Project and how you can get involved, be sure to listen to this episode. You'll come away with a renewed appreciation for the power of flowers and the simple acts of kindness that can make a big difference in the lives of those around us.Learn more about The Growing Kindness Project here >> https://www.growingkindnessproject.org/ and on Instagram at @growingkindnessproject Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi, authors of the best-selling book "Where Should We Camp Next?" as they take us on a journey through the 50 states of America, highlighting some of the best and most unique camping experiences each state has to offer. From romantic getaways to family-friendly destinations, they cover it all, including campgrounds near water parks, morning pancake breakfasts, summer camp activities for all ages, and more.In this episode, they share insights from camping experiences they've had across the country and they also highlight their upcoming book "Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks" set to release in April. Their passion for camping and exploring the outdoors is contagious, as they inspire listeners to get out and discover the beauty and adventure in their own backyard.Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to plan their next outdoor adventure. Get ready to be inspired, entertained, and educated on the many fun and unique camping experiences available in the United States.Check out these trio of books from the Puglisis. They're all FANTASTIC!See You At the Campground: A Guide to Discovering Community, Connection, and a Happier Family in the Great Outdoors (Plan the Best Family-Friendly Summer Camping Vacation) - https://amzn.to/3GaDZcXWhere Should We Camp Next?: A 50-State Guide to Amazing Campground and Other Unique Outdoor Accommodations - https://amzn.to/42EtNCQ(PREORDER - Releases April 4th) Where Should We Camp Next?: National Parks: The Best Campgrounds and Unique Outdoor Accommodations In and Around National Parks, Seashores, Monuments, and More - https://amzn.to/3ZewuYOCheck out our other podcast episode with Jeremy Puglisi! Episode 117: All Things Camping! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-1000-hours-outside-podcast/id1448210728?i=1000597551972Learn more about the Puglisis at thervatlas.com and on social media @thervatlas .Also check out their podcast called The RV Atlas Podcast that Stephanie and Jeremy host together. They're kicking off their ninth season and it's a thematic season all about the National Parks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I talked with Erin Majeske, the founder of The Barefeet Farm School - one of only seventeen licensed outdoor preschools in the United States. Erin shares her journey towards creating a child-led learning environment that embraces the power of voluntary play and multi-age situations.Erin explains how and why she had to learn to let go of data collection and control in order to truly embrace child-directed experiences. She talks about how it was difficult to step back and watch the children play without intervening, but ultimately recognized the value in giving children the space to learn on their own terms.The Barefoot Farm School provides children with a unique opportunity to learn about nature while fostering a love for the outdoors. Erin started with just three students and now her summer camps for kids are sold out each year by February. She explains how you can get your own camp or outdoor preschool up and running!Erin also discusses the benefits of being in an outdoor environment, including quieter surroundings and a reduction in overstimulation that can trigger fight or flight responses in children.Learn more about Erin and The Barefeet Farm School here >> www.barefeetfarmschool.comAnd on Instagram here >> @barefeetfarmschool Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New for 2023!!I'll be speaking at eight conferences this year and when I can I'll be highlighting outdoor adventures in the states I'll be speaking at. First up is the Indiana Association of Home Educators Conference at Chapel Rock Christian Church in Indianapolis on March 24th and 25th.Click here to register >> https://iahe.net/product/2023-parenting-and-homeschool-conference-registration/The IAHE Parenting and Homeschool Conference is your big chance to connect with other homeschoolers. You aren’t on this journey alone. Come learn, grow, and connect. Hear from homeschool experts, shop in the exhibit hall, and get your questions answered. This is an excellent opportunity for continuing education. Gain insight and tips to help you be the best parent and teacher you can be. I'm hoping we get to meet there! In this episode the Publications Director of IAHE, Amy Sager joins us to talk about the immense variety of outdoor recreation opportunities at some of the state parks in Indiana. She even mentions an outdoor photography workshop opportunity! Learn more here >> https://www.lenspiration.com/workshop/mccormicks-creek-state-park-in/ You'll get lots of ideas for if you live in Indiana or are traveling to (or through) Indiana. It will also inspire you to dive into your own state parks and find out what they have to offer! Learn more about the Indiana State Park Challenges here >> https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/programs/fitness/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Digital Mindfulness Expert, author, speaker, and podcast host Christina Crook joins us to talk about filling our lives with the things that bring us the most joy. Christina reveals how key shifts in our thinking can help us to prioritize joy and draw closer to one another. Through her writing, podcast, and facilitation of The JOMO Method™—her signature program —she helps people hone in on the relationships and work that matter most to them. In this episode we discuss what elements are needed to experience joy, how to tackle the technology question with our kids, why we want uncomfortable and inconvienient experiences in our lives, and more! There are good burdens, burdens we want to hold onto because they provide lasting value.Learn more about Christina, her books, her podcast and more here >> https://www.christinacrook.com/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about this fabulous opportunity to be part of the Nature Pen Pal Exchange!! It's a way to learn about the natural environments in other areas as well as foster new relationships.Jennifer Wilmoth is the founder of Nature Pen Pal Exchange. In this episode she walks us through how to join in as well as how to start a nature club of your own. She also talks about wholeschooling, large family life (8 kids and 6 grandkids), homesteading, and how she juggles it all!Find information on The Nature Pen Pal Exchange here >> https://naturepenpalexchange.comLearn more about wholeschooling and homesteading here >> https://www.wilmothwellness.com/Check out Jennifer's Wellness services here >> https://www.wilmothwellness.com/You can also find Jen on Instagram at:@naturepenpalexchange@jenniferlwilmoth@wilmothwellness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Applied epigeneticist Simone Nofel joins us for another community episode! Simone walks us through the ins and outs of worldschooling (and roadschooling) with a toddler, starting a business, and self-publishing an entire kids book series all about natural elements! Simone is passionate about whole family holistic wellness and how nature can be used in our healing. Check out Simone on Instagram at: @heartyandfree and @way.of.the.wildlingLearn more about Hearty and Free here >> https://heartyandfree.com/homeAnd check out Simone's book series here >> https://amzn.to/3ZeDlST They're beautiful books! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The mental health epidemic began in 2012 and our children are suffering. Thomas Kersting joins us to talk about the components that are necessary for a healthy childhood. He offers encouraging and straightforward advice about what we need to take away and what we need to add back in so that our children can thrive. Kersting looks back on his simple childhood and describes it as "phenomenal." How will our kids describe their childhoods? Play is down 75%. Many of our kids are not living in the real world, they're living in a virtual one. How will our kids survive, problem solve, and thrive in the real world if they've not spent much time there? There are so many ways we can help our children and the answers may be simpler than you think!Learn more about Thomas Kersting here >> https://www.tomkersting.com/Order your copy of Raising Healthy Teenagers here >> https://amzn.to/3SqhF3V Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A public speaker, host of The Homestead Education Podcast, and creator of the Homestead Science curriculum Kody Hanner joins us to talk about self-sufficiency and about how giving our kids ownership in their responsibility to the future builds the character in them that so many of us are seeking out. We also talk about eating clean, farmers markets, homeschooling, personal growth, homestead ideas for urban settings and more! Learn more about Kody here >> www.kodyhanner.com Find Kody on Instagram @homestead_education Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices