Discover and explore nature together. For families, home educators and teachers who want to support children to live in touch with nature. Let's rewild childhood. Hosted by Rachel Mills, educator, animation producer and founder of Buttercup Learning in conversation with our nature-curious guests.
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In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills speaks with Katie Stacey and Luke Massey about their move to Asturias, Northern Spain, to live sustainably and create a nature reserve. They discuss the challenges and joys of adapting to rural life in Spain, raising their children in a natural environment, and their commitment to rewilding efforts. The couple shares insights on balancing family life with their conservation projects, the importance of outdoor exploration for children, and the role of technology in connecting with nature.
Website: https://www.wildfinca.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildfinca/
Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode:
Introducing Katie and Luke (00:00:43)
Katie and Luke share their journey to Asturias, Spain, aiming for sustainable living with their children.
Motivation for Moving to Spain (00:01:08)
Katie discusses their previous travels and desire for a more nature-rich base.
Discovering Asturias (00:02:07)
Katie explains their love for Asturias and their decision to settle there after a road trip.
Adapting to Local Life (00:03:30)
Katie and Luke describe their initial experiences and friendships with local farmers upon arrival.
Background in Nature Conservation (00:04:32)
Luke shares his early interest in nature and his experiences with rewilding projects in the UK.
Community Support in Rewilding (00:05:24)
Katie highlights the local community's fascination with their rewilding efforts as a young couple.
Farming for Nature (00:06:14)
Katie explains their vision of farming for biodiversity rather than traditional farming methods.
Daily Life and Routine (00:07:35)
Katie describes their family routine, including school drop-offs and animal care responsibilities.
Children's Involvement in Nature (00:09:16)
Katie shares how their children participate in daily tasks and engage with nature.
Nurturing Children's Connection to Nature (00:11:05)
Katie discusses the innate connection children have with nature and the importance of nurturing it.
Comparing Childhood Experiences (00:11:27)
Katie reflects on her own childhood connection to nature compared to Luke's urban upbringing.
Learning from Nature Experiences (00:13:05)
Katie discusses the positive changes in her attitude towards nature from hands-on experiences.
Small Changes, Big Impact (00:15:09)
Katie emphasises that small actions can significantly enhance local wildlife and nature.
Enjoying Life in Asturias (00:16:00)
Katie shares her love for various outdoor activities and the joy they bring to her life.
Learning from Mistakes (00:16:49)
Katie and Luke reflect on challenges faced and lessons learned during their rewilding journey.
Challenges with Goats (00:17:00)
Luke recounts the difficulties they faced with goats and the lessons learned from that...
Curious About Nature Photography
Season 3 · Episode 7
Sunday, September 1, 2024 • Duration 21:57
In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert and keen nature photographer. They discuss Ian's journey into nature photography, his book " My year in photos: A 365 day nature inspired photo diary," and the charitable contributions from its sales. The episode emphasises the importance of connecting with nature and the joy of capturing nature's beauty. Ian shares anecdotes about photographing wildlife and the need to balance documentation with being present.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Wildlife Filmmaking
Season 2 · Episode 8
Sunday, October 1, 2023 • Duration 27:41
Rachel interviews Josh Forwood, a wildlife and science documentary cameraman and drone operator. They discuss his background, experiences in wildlife filmmaking, and the impact of wildlife documentaries on raising awareness and driving change. They also touch on industry challenges and changes, the effects of climate change on his filming locations, and his call for urgent action from governments. Additionally, they explore the role of individuals in making a difference.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
Curious About Forest School
Season 2 · Episode 7
Friday, September 1, 2023 • Duration 33:33
Rachel interviews Ellie and Chris from Little Sprouts Forest School. Chris and Ellie discuss the origins and purpose of Little Sprouts, as well as the concept of forest schools and the activities they offer to children. They also discuss the benefits of forest school, role of parents in encouraging outdoor play, and suggest nature crafts and activities for families to do at home or in local parks.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
Curious About Sustainable Tips For Families
Season 2 · Episode 6
Tuesday, August 1, 2023 • Duration 30:52
Rachel talks to Cathy Mears-Martin. Cathy discusses her experience with sustainability and the inspiration for her Eco Protection Squad. Rachel and Cathy discuss how to nurture conversations around climate anxiety and the importance of listening to children's voices. Cathy recommends resources for children's education around climate change and the environment. She recommends simple swaps for living sustainably and discusses her involvement with Plastic Free Periods. Rachel and Cathy also discuss the Women's Environmental Network and the importance of raising awareness about organisations like it.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
Curious About Animated Nature Documentaries
Season 2 · Episode 5
Saturday, July 1, 2023 • Duration 34:48
Rachel talks to Gavin Strange. Gavin shares how he got into design and animation and became a director at Aardman, emphasising the importance of curiosity, self-motivation, and finding one's own path in the creative industries. He shares the importance of using different mediums, such as animation, to tell stories and make a positive change in the world.
Gavin highlights the collaborative nature of animation, the importance of nuance and empathy in discussions about climate change and animal welfare, and the value of small changes and personal responsibility.
He also gives advice for parents with children interested in animation and talks about his personal projects.
In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, Rachel interviews Annabel Ross, the founder of "Messages from the Wild," a podcast that gives a voice to nature. Annabel discusses her background in audio and nutrition and her passion for radio and the natural world, which led her to create this unique podcast. The podcast features interviews with experts who embody different animals and plants, allowing them to speak about their lives and environments. Rachel and Annabel also discuss the importance of supporting independent bookshops and encouraging young people to read about nature.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode
Annabel Ross and Messages from the Wild [00:00:45] Annabel Ross introduces herself and her work on Messages from the Wild, a podcast that gives a voice to nature.
Favourite facts about nature [00:08:26] Annabel Ross talks about the tardigrade, a microscopic animal that can survive extreme conditions and can be brought back to life with a drop of water.
Curious About Time In Nature
Season 2 · Episode 3
Monday, May 1, 2023 • Duration 23:09
Rachel talks to Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert, to discuss his nature-friendly approach to lawn care. Ian's philosophy emphasizes the importance of preserving wildlife and nature while maintaining a healthy and lush lawn. He shares his personal strategies for engaging both children and adults with the great outdoors, including capturing unique moments through photography and paying close attention to small details. Ian's gentle tips on exploring nature will inspire you to slow down and observe your surroundings more mindfully.
Clare Willetts Founder of not only pink and blue shares her thoughts on how we can challenge gender stereotypes from birth. She describes the inequality she experienced as a child, and the impact it had on her, leading her to question the gendered nature of school uniforms. She shares resources and tips to challenge our buying behaviour for children's clothes and how we can support our children's learning without boy/girl filters.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
Curious About Outdoor Learning
Season 2 · Episode 1
Wednesday, March 1, 2023 • Duration 26:48
Jo Clanfield, the founder of Teach Outdoors and an experienced primary teacher shares her passion for getting children to learn outside.
Jo shares some accessible outdoor learning activities that families, teachers and home educators can enjoy with their young children. Learn more about beach schools and the activities we can all do to enjoy the benefits of outdoor learning.
For more details about the Outdoor Learning conference, now taking place on the 13th of June 2023 at the University of Northampton, check out Jo's website.
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints and nature activity box with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode:
Guest Introduction (00:00:43)
Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert, is welcomed back to discuss his nature photography journey.
Book Publication Announcement (00:01:12)
Ian shares his experience of publishing his book "My Year in Photos: 365 Day Nature Inspired Photo Diary."
Charitable Contributions (00:02:00)
Discussion on profits from book sales being donated to wildlife and hospice charities.
Nature Photography and Conservation (00:02:30)
Ian highlights the connection between his photography and contributions to wildlife conservation.
Ian's Early Nature Experiences (00:03:25)
Ian reflects on his childhood experiences in nature and how they shaped his passion.
Nature Photography Challenge (00:04:01)
Ian explains how he started his nature photography challenge after a friend's suggestion.
Book Two Plans (00:05:21)
Ian reveals plans for a second book and discusses its potential release timeline.
Favourite Photo Titles (00:06:06)
Ian shares amusing titles for his nature photography, emphasizing the fun aspect.
Unique Wildlife Encounters (00:06:55)
Discussion on unusual wildlife names and encounters, including the "vomit fungus."
Using Technology for Identification (00:07:43)
Ian discusses using apps like...
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode
Josh Forwood's Background [00:00:57]
Josh discusses his background and experiences in wildlife filmmaking and drone operation.
Getting into Wildlife Filmmaking and Drones [00:01:53]
Josh explains how he got into wildlife filmmaking and building drones, and what a drone is.
Most Rewarding Experience: Filming "Polar Extremes" [00:03:41]
Josh shares his most rewarding experience working on the documentary "Polar Extremes" and the message behind the film.
The impact of media industry on carbon footprint [00:10:52]
Discussion about the efforts of the media industry to reduce its carbon impact and the role of organisations like We Are Albert in promoting sustainability.
The role of wildlife film production in creating social change [00:12:16]
Exploration of the positive impact of wildlife film production on raising awareness and influencing attitudes, with examples like the impact of "Blue Planet" on single-use plastics.
Career paths in wildlife filmmaking [00:16:29]
Overview of different career paths in the wildlife filmmaking industry, including technical roles like camera operator and drone operator, as well as creative roles like directing and researching.
The impact of climate change on remote communities [00:22:01]
Discusses the drastic effects of climate change on remote communities and their livelihoods.
Government action on...
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode
The Origins of Little Sprouts Forest School [00:01:01]
Chris explains how Little Sprouts Forest School started in 2017 and the motivation behind it.
What is Forest Schools? [00:01:49]
Chris and Ellie discuss the concept of forest schools, its origins, and its approach to education.
Activities at Little Sprouts Forest School [00:07:26]
Chris and Ellie talk about the different activities offered at Little Sprouts, including stay and play sessions and holiday clubs.
The joy of forest school activities [00:10:34]
Speakers discuss how they now love the primal and meditative aspects of forest school activities.
The benefits of forest school for children [00:11:28]
The speakers highlight the confidence, risk assessment skills, and nature connection that children gain from participating in forest school.
The impact of technology on outdoor play [00:16:58]
The speakers discuss the pull of technology and screens on children and the importance of encouraging outdoor play and utilizing available outdoor spaces.
The impact of forest school on children [00:21:02]
Discussion on the positive effects of forest school on children's well-being, learning, confidence, and relationships.
Activities and nature crafts for families [00:22:13]
Suggestions for outdoor activities and nature crafts that families can do at home or in local parks.
Benefits of being outdoors and creative play [00:23:11]
Exploration of the benefits of being outdoors, the importance of open-ended creative play, and the use of natural materials like sticks for imaginative play.
The origins and locations of Little Sprouts...
What we discussed in the episode
The Inspiration behind Eco Protection Squad [00:01:26]
Cathy shares her journey into sustainability, starting with a trip to Southeast Asia and witnessing waste pollution.
Creating Characters for Eco Protection Squad [00:02:36]
Cathy discusses how she came up with the idea for the Eco Protection Squad characters and how they help educate about waste.
Engaging Children in Environmental Issues [00:08:15]
Rachel and Cathy discuss how to introduce young children to climate change without causing anxiety, emphasising the importance of making it fun and manageable.
The importance of outdoor play [00:11:04]
Cathy and Rachel discuss the joy and benefits of spending time outside, appreciating nature, and engaging in outdoor activities.
Resources for children's environmental education [00:12:00]
Rachel asks about suggestions for resources related to climate change and the environment that can support children's education and knowledge. Cathy mentions the value of books, libraries, and specific resources like Twigs magazine and The Adventures of Scout.
Favourite sustainable swaps [00:16:48]
Rachel praises Cathy's ethos around simple sustainable ideas and asks for some favourite swaps. Cathy mentions reusable wipes, reusable cotton pads, toothpaste tabs, and a travel bidet as examples of sustainable swaps.
The plastic free period movement [00:21:22]
Cathy discusses her involvement with the Women's Environmental Network and the plastic free period movement.
Starting the Eco Protection Squad [00:22:06]
Cathy talks about becoming an ambassador for Plastic Free Periods and starting online workshops to raise awareness.
Litter picking with children...
Email: info@buttercuplearning.com
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode
Background and Career [00:01:39]
Gavin Strange talks about his background and career, including his passion for design and filmmaking, and how he ended up at Aardman Animations.
Inspiration for Design and Animation [00:04:08]
Gavin Strange discusses his inspiration for design and animation, including his love for pop culture and graphic design, and how he discovered his passion for filmmaking.
Turtle Journey [00:08:52]
Gavin Strange talks about his work on the multi-award winning animation "Turtle Journey" in partnership with Greenpeace and Aardman, including the story behind the project and the use of animation to raise awareness about the plight of the world's oceans.
Translating empathy to plasticine turtles [00:10:33]
Gavin Strange talks about the inspiration behind the "Turtle Journey" animation and how they used claymation to create a human bond with the audience.
The production process of "Turtle Journey" [00:11:35]
Gavin Strange explains the process of creating the animation, including the use of stop frame animation and computer graphics, and the collaborative nature of animation production.
Learning from Greenpeace [00:18:45]
Gavin Strange shares what he learned about climate change from working with Greenpeace, including their positive and nimble...
Water Bears and House Spiders [00:09:10 - 00:10:42] Annabel Ross talks about her fascination with water bears and the reason why house spiders run so quickly.
Books on Nature [00:10:42 - 00:14:14] Annabel Ross shares her favourite books on nature, including "Extraordinary Insects" and "The Secret Network of Nature."
Nature Activities [00:15:53 - 00:18:04] Annabel Ross recommends using a microscopic camera to observe nature up close and shares an interview with a young botanist who is passionate about wildflowers and bugs.
Finding ways to be curious [00:18:17] Annabel Ross talks about her curiosity and how she finds ways to learn more about nature, including going on guided walks and drawing what she sees.
Upcoming episodes of Messages from the Wild [00:21:07] Annabel Ross discusses the upcoming episodes of her podcast, Messages from the Wild, including a series on soil and more episodes on ocean animals.
Detachment from nature and positive actions [00:25:36] Annabel Ross and Rachel Mills discuss how humans have detached themselves from nature and the negative impact it has had. But also highlight the positive actions being taken by experts in conservation and science.
Mobile phone microscopic camera and Countryfile magazine: mentioned at 00:16:49
Books
Extraordinary Insects by Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson: mentioned at 00:11:03
The Secret Network
Email: info@buttercuplearning.com
Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.
Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.
There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.
What we discussed in the episode
Background and Experience [00:00:46] Ian talks about his background and experience in lawn care, including his work on golf courses and his current job with Lawn Master.
Approach to Lawn Care [00:06:40] Ian discusses his unique approach to lawn care, which involves considering the needs of wildlife and nature.
Recommendations for Getting Outdoors [00:08:12] Rachel asks Ian for recommendations on how to get outdoors, and he talks about working with customers to incorporate nature into their lawn care.
Getting Outdoors [00:08:31] Ian suggests getting outdoors more and enjoying nature, even if it's just a local park or a tree in your garden.
Tips for Exploring Nature [00:12:39] Ian and Rachel discuss the importance of being mindful of your surroundings and not setting high expectations when exploring nature, especially with children.
Collecting Natural Finds [00:15:03] Ian and Rachel talk about collecting natural finds like leaves, feathers, and stones, and creating a scrapbook or box to keep them in. Ian also shares his inspiration for sharing wildlife photographs online.
Taking photos of nature [00:16:36] Ian talks about his hobby of...
What we Discussed in the Episode
**Clare's Background [00:01:10]**
Clare talks about her background in advertising and how it led her to start Not Only Pink and Blue.
**Challenging Stereotypes [00:02:00]**
Clare discusses the impact of stereotypes on children and how Not Only Pink and Blue challenges them through buying behaviour, collaborations with businesses, and creating parent-friendly cultures.
**Not Only Pink and Blue's Course for Parents [00:06:30]**
Clare talks about the new course for parents offered by Not Only Pink and Blue, which addresses common questions and concerns around kids' clothing, games, and toys.
**Tips for Communicating Wishes [00:07:46]**
Clare gives tips for gently communicating wishes about kids' clothing, games, and toys with friends and relatives.
**Challenging stereotypes in toys and clothing [00:08:50]**
Discussion on the importance of introducing a variety of toys and clothing colours to children to develop different skill sets and challenge gender stereotypes.
**Negative association with "girly" and pink [00:11:09]**
Exploration of how the association of pink with "girly" and negative connotations affects children's clothing choices and how to change this perception.
**Campaigns to challenge gender stereotypes [00:13:56]**
Mention of campaigns such as "Let Toys Be Toys" and Sunshine Magazine's efforts to challenge gender stereotypes in baby products and clothing.
**Practicality and fit of girls' clothing [00:15:53]**
Discussion on the practicality and fit of girls' clothing, including the length of shorts and quality differences, compared to boys' clothing.
**Portraying Gender in Children's Literature [00:18:43]**
Discussion on traditional children's books and how they often reinforce gender stereotypes, with tips on how to challenge them and examples of authors and illustrators who do so.
**Resources for Challenging Stereotypes...
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