Exploring Wilderness and Nature Education with Eric Young | The Enchanted Earth Podcast

In this episode of the Enchanted Earth Podcast, Maureen interviews Eric Young, a veteran in the field of nature education with over 35 years of experience. Together, they dive into Eric's transformative experiences in nature, from heart-pounding encounters with wildlife to awe-inspiring moments with ancient trees. Eric shares stories from his childhood that fueled his passion for the natural world, his career in environmental education, as well as his profound connection with nature through personal experiences. Tune in for a deeply inspiring conversation on the magic of nature and its power to transform our lives.

00:00 Discovering the Ancient Almond Tree

00:46 Introduction to Eric Young

02:43 Eric's Early Connection with Nature

08:11 College Disillusionment and New Directions

10:43 Finding Purpose in Outdoor Education

13:20 Life-Changing Internship at Wildlife Camp

16:40 Graduate School and Teaching Experiences

17:58 A Cold Encounter with Nature

25:42 The Deeper Connection with Nature

26:37 Encounters with Wildlife

29:32 The Great Horned Owl Experience

35:09 Role Modeling in Nature

42:25 Costa Rica Adventures

47:50 The Importance of Biodiversity

50:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Eric Young

Eric has been in the field of nature education for over 35 years. He has a master’s in Outdoor Teacher Education, three summers with the NWF Wildlife Camp and 23 years as a Program Director at a nature center. He has freelanced as a storyteller, author, and environmental educator.  Eric combined his two passions, nature and teaching children, and forged them into a successful career. Now that he has retired, he wishes to continue spreading his joy of nature to young people.   

About Maureen Calamia
Maureen Calamia has been a seeker all her life, tapping into the magic of nature, dreams, and consciousness to unearth truths of our ancient connection to heaven and earth. A teacher, author, and podcaster, she shares stories of greater meaning, purpose, and resonance with all of nature’s beings. Founded the Luminous Spaces School with online courses in feng shui, earth energy healing, biophilic design, and nature spirituality. Maureen offers private mentoring to those seeking self-discovery support. Her newest book, The Enchanted Earth: Embracing the Power of Nature to Discover the Wild in You (Mango, 2024), is available wherever online books are sold.

COURSE OFFERINGS AND CONSULTATIONS: https://www.luminous-spaces.com/

BOOK - The Enchanted Earth: Embracing the Power of Nature to Discover the Wild in You: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-enchanted-earth-maureen-calamia/21477870?ean=9781684816859

SPEAKING: https://www.luminous-spaces.com/feng-shui-speaker/

SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@maureencalamia