Explore every episode of the podcast The Forest Understory

What happens when a forester, biologist, and wilderness enthusiast spends months surviving alone in the wild?

This episode of The Forest Understory features Megan Hanacek, professional forester and biologist, whose experiences range from helping landowners manage forests to testing her limits on the reality series Alone. But this conversation isn't just about survival.

We explore how time spent in forests can build mental resilience, reduce stress, sharpen focus, and help us navigate uncertainty.

Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsperson or someone who simply enjoys a walk in the woods, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the connection between forests and human resilience.

Fred Blackstein, a physicist turned outdoor enthusiast, shares his lifelong passion for backcountry camping, survival skills, and volunteerism. Discover how his unique perspective as a scientist enhances his appreciation of nature and hear his thoughts on why everyone should know how to use a compass.

Learn about Fred's Order of Canada award here: https://www.pembrokeobserver.com/news/ottawa-valleys-success-power-of-community-fred-blackstein

Learn about Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre here: https://www.shawwoods.ca/

In this episode, Lacey Rose interviews Jeff Muzzi, one of her early mentors, who helped hone her field skills at the beginning of her career. With over 50 years of experience, we spend time exploring his career, the evolution of forestry, and the importance of field skills and mentorship. Discover valuable lessons from decades in the woods, the impact of technology, and the enduring connection to nature.

Join Lacey Rose as she reconnects with her friend Michelle Varkonja, a forester and silversmith, to explore their shared history of learning about forestry and long friendship since. Hear about where Michelle's path has taken her, from landing on Northern Vancouver Island, working in places people can only dream about visiting, hugging big trees and creating incredible art inspired by nature as the Backcountry Jeweler.

Visit Michelle's website here: https://www.backcountryjeweler.com/

And check out her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backcountry.jeweler/

In this episode, Lacey Rose speaks with Katrina Van Osch, a woman of many talents who has made significant contributions to the fields of arboriculture and forestry. They discuss Katrina's journey from running an arborist business to teaching forestry, the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and her passion for empowering young women following in her footsteps. The conversation also delves into the emotional connection with nature, the importance of taking leaps, and the wisdom found in the woods.

Find out more about Katrina's adventures by following her on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@katrinavanosch or Instagram @katrina_van_osch.

To find out more about Women in Wood, visit www.womeninwood.ca.

Thanks again to Trained by Chickadees for the theme song!

In this bonus mini-episode of The Forest Understory, Lacey shares the next chapter of her own story: why she chose forestry as a career and how her path unfolded. She reflects on her years at UNB while attaining her forestry degree —highlighting academic wins, unexpected hurdles, and the twists and turns of finding meaningful summer work. Along the way Lacey reveals the life lessons that shaped her career and continue to guide her today.

In this heartfelt conversation, Lacey Rose sits down with her dad, Danny Rose, to explore their family's history, the challenges of life in Newfoundland and Labrador, and the deep connection to nature that has shaped their lives. They discuss early memories, the importance of community, the skills learned from hunting and gathering, and the evolution of forest perspectives across generations. The conversation highlights the beauty of storytelling and the lessons learned from the wilderness and includes a special dive into the archives to include priceless stories from a lost but not forgotten family member.

This episode also welcomes the introduction of the Forest Understory theme song, written and performed by Trained by Chickadees, and recorded by Laurie Sweig Productions.

In this episode of the Forest Understory, host Lacey Rose introduces her journey as a forester, sharing her deep connection to the forest and her childhood experiences in Labrador City. She reflects on the lessons learned from nature, the importance of storytelling, and the unique identity shaped by her upbringing in a remote community. The episode sets the stage for future discussions about life in the woods and the connections that bind us to nature.Learn more about Lacey at www.understoryforest.com or follow her adventures in the woods on Instagram @thelittestforester.