Explore every episode of the podcast The Global Grit Experience
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factory Farms & Their Impact on Animals, Nature & Our Health | 03 nov. 2026 | 00:28:17 | |
Today we're talking about factory farms. What are they, what kind of havoc are they wreaking, and what can we do about it to help the environment, humane treatment of animals, rural communities, small-scale farmers, and our health. My guest today offers a first-hand experience living near and trying to stop factory farms, or officially called concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). Sonja Trom Eayrs is the author of Dodge County INC. Big Ag and the Undoing of Rural America. She’s a farmer’s daughter, rural advocate, and attorney. Sonja is involved in several rural advocacy organizations, including the Socially Responsible Agriculture Project, Farm Action, Land Stewardship Project, and Dodge County Concerned Citizens. RESOURCES
FOLLOW THE GLOBAL GRIT EXPERIENCE! Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| BATS! | 27 oct. 2026 | 00:33:00 | |
This episode is all about BATS and just in time for Bat Appreciation Week! My guest today, Melissa Donnelly, loves bats and has dedicated her life to understanding and protecting them. She said she has an especially soft spot for the really ugly ones. I love that. Melissa Donnelly is a Science Specialist at Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation in Austin Texas whose mission is to inspire bat conservation worldwide. Melissa provides assistance on conservation projects and research and has been lucky enough to travel to various places around the world to help participate in bat surveys and conservation. She enjoys helping people help bats and bringing attention to the many individuals and groups doing fantastic work for bat conservation worldwide. Resources Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation (MTCB) Become a member https://www.merlintuttle.org/i-want-to-help/ Photo collection https://merlintuttle.smugmug.com/ Blog posts, events, and resources https://www.merlintuttle.org Enjoy and explore Resources, Videos, and find them online at Facebook and Instagram. Video by MTBC about the largest mammal migration- the straw-coloured fruit bat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD2DwmGFko0 More videos: https://www.youtube.com/@merlintuttlesbatconservation Books by Merlin Tuttle: America’s Neighborhood Bats The Secret Lives of Bats Melissa Donnelly How Melissa got to where she is: https://www.merlintuttle.org/livin-the-dream-introducing-melissa-donnelly/ Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Prioritizing Climate Action Where We Live | 20 oct. 2026 | 00:35:45 | |
Erika talks with Dr. Mark Seeley about climate change happening in our own backyard and what we can do about it. Is there hope? Mark says yes. But, we each need to participate. Dr. Mark Seeley retired in February of 2018 after nearly 40 years in his role as Extension Climatologist and Meteorologist at the University of Minnesota. Since then he’s continued to provide presentations to communities throughout Minnesota and beyond on climate change and its effects on our natural resources and societal infrastructure. He’s the author of Minnesota Weather Almanac and has done a weekly commentary on Minnesota Public Radio since 1992. Upcoming Presentation: For those living in MN, Dr. Mark Seeley will be speaking on Wednesday, Oct 21 at M State- Fergus Falls Legacy Hall at 7:00 pm on the state of our state- the impacts of climate change in MN and what we can do about it. Resources: The Climate Action Handbook by Dr. Heidi A. Roop: https://www.heidiroop.com/climate-action-handbook.html Minnesota Weather Almanac by Dr. Mark Seeley Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership program MCAP: https://climate.umn.edu/ Project DrawDown: https://drawdown.org/ Citizen’s Climate Lobby: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/ Follow The Global Grit Experience: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Sustainable Travel - If the Local People Hate Tourism, There's Something Wrong | 13 oct. 2026 | 00:35:27 | |
What is sustainable tourism and how can we be better travelers? And, equally important, how can we protect our own natural, cultural and historical places where we live from overtourism? It's a balance but more and more destinations are making it happen. That's good news. Jonathan B. Tourtellot, a National Geographic Explorer, is a journalist, editor, speaker, and consultant specializing in the intersection between tourism and care for places. While at National Geographic, he introduced the concept of destination stewardship and launched the “Places Rated” surveys reported annually as National Geographic Traveler cover stories. He now runs the nonprofit Destination Stewardship Center (DSC), including an online e-magazine, the Destination Stewardship Report. He was a contributing author in the book Overtourism: Lessons for a Better Future (Island Press, 2021) and is featured prominently in the just-published book Destination Stewardship by Tonya Fitzpatrick (KoganPage, 2026). In his new Substack, The Fragile Map, he reveals how the taxes travelers pay for lodging can promote overtourism. Look for his story entitled “The Mystery Tax.” Resources: Destination Stewardship Report Follow The Global Grit Experience: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Tribal Energy Sovereignty & Being Allies with Indigenous and Rural Communities | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:19:51 | |
Erika talks with guest, Bridget Guiza from the White Earth Tribal and Community College. Bridget talks about the challenges of our time being at the nexus of food, water, and energy sovereignty and being allies with Indigenous and rural communities. Bridget is the Customized Education Coordinator at the White Earth Tribal and Community College. She has a background in Environmental Systems and Planning and has experience in philanthropy, environmental justice, energy development, food sovereignty, and workforce development. Her current work focuses on building career pathways with and for the people of White Earth and adjacent communities. CLARIFICATION in EPISODE: MTERA stands for the Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association. Resources White Earth Tribal and Community College Midwest Tribal Energy Resources Association - Empowering tribes to manage tribal energy resources through collective action. https://www.mtera.org/ Follow The Global Grit Experience Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Social Inclusion - The Ticket Out of This Environmental Mess | 29 sept. 2026 | 00:29:37 | |
In this episode, Dr. Joel Powell shares his perspective on expanding acceptance of people as an absolute necessity to the preservation of the environment. And, that political organization and cooperation is the ticket out of the mess we're in. Dr. Joel Powell whose been a professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Minnesota State University Moorhead for almost forty years. Resources Book by Douglas Rushkoff about consulting tech billionaires on surviving the apocalypse. https://rushkoff.com/books/survival-of-the-richest.html Follow The Global Grit Experience: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Upcycling Fast Fashion | 22 sept. 2026 | 00:16:35 | |
In this episode, Dr. Judi Roux shares about the environmental impacts of fast fashion and clothing waste and how she's embraced creative upcycling to make a difference. Judi Roux, Ed.D has been an educator for over 30 years. As the founder of tROUXly treasures, she's combining her experience and enthusiasm for environmental sustainability with her passion for yarn crafting. She does this by repurposing clothing memories and sharing those skills with other crafters. She teaches t-shirt yarn cutting and crocheting classes at various educational venues around Duluth and the north shore of Lake Superior. RESOURCES Swagcycle: https://www.swagcycle.net/thinking-about-the-life-of-a-t-shirt/ Clothing Mountain Visible from Space: Impacts from Modern Purchases https://northshorejournal.co/editorial/impacts-of-modern-purchases/ Life Cycle of a T-Shirt The life cycle of a t-shirt - Angel Chang Statistics About Fast Fashion Waste https://earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste/ FOLLOW THE GLOBAL GRIT EXPERIENCE Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Saying No to Plastics - Why & How | 15 sept. 2026 | 00:31:37 | |
Guest Cedar Walters talks about the harms of plastics in our bodies and the environment in this episode and shares tactics to reduce plastic use. Cedar Walters is Senior Director of Community Programs at West Central Initiative (WCI), where she leads community initiatives and connects people and communities with resources that support sustainability and resilience. In 2025 and 2026 she organized and supported eight community screenings of the Plastic People documentary, which led to the formation of a Beyond Plastics local chapter in west central Minnesota. Prior to joining WCI, Cedar worked at a county recycling facility for six years and became obsessed with waste reduction – specifically for plastics and food waste. Cedar holds an MS in Biology and Environmental Education from North Dakota State University and has experience in distributed solar development, composting and recycling program development, sustainable food systems, and native prairie restoration projects. In her free time she can be found in her pollinator garden, spending time with family, reading, camping, knitting, and organizing for more inclusive and equitable communities. RESOURCES Beyond Plastics: trainings, resources, studies, fact sheets, map of local groups, speaker bureau, and more! https://www.beyondplastics.org/ Reasons to Say No to Plastics: https://files.captivate.fm/library/d7963bca-c38f-4d72-ae91-8cdf07543597/Reasons-to-Say-No-to-Plastics-Beyond-Plastics.pdf Sustainable Closet Basics: https://files.captivate.fm/library/c83f24bf-6b68-4ec2-8d0a-0f95f0cd47fc/Sustainable-Closet-Basics.pdf Thrift Tips and Gifts: https://files.captivate.fm/library/891f05db-1ed3-4c39-91e4-8e59fa005d3a/Thrift-Tips-and-Gifts.pdf Compostable Products Purchasing Guid: https://files.captivate.fm/library/c0e48e78-f7dc-4692-aecc-8dacec5406d6/Compostable-Products-Purchasing-Guide.pdf Reducing health impacts from plastics - Blog: https://www.beyondplastics.org/ask-a-scientist/avoid-plastic-toxic-chemicals For West Central MN Specifically: Quarterly Advocacy Trainings coming up in November – free on Zoom, pick a date that works for you: Screening of Plastic People -coming up on September 26th at 6:30 pm at the Becker Co Museum in Detroit Lakes, MN https://www.facebook.com/share/1LUpEdwQFH/ FOLLOW the GLOBAL GRIT EXPERIENCE Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! Erika | |||
| Tactics to be an Effective Voter for the Environment | 08 sept. 2026 | 00:26:27 | |
What does voting for the environment mean? How can we find our way through political hype? How do we listen to candidates more critically? My guest today is Dave Homans. Dave is a retired physician who serves as Citizen Climate Lobby’s Co-Coordinator for the state of Minnesota. He is active in lobbying our elected representatives to promote policies that will mitigate climate warming. Resources
Follow The Global Grit Experience: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Mn5MZyZeMgdgKROVEK1b1 Instagram @thegloabgritexperience Facebook @theglobalgritexperience Website www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| Meet Erika - Host of The Global Grit Experience Podcast | 01 sept. 2026 | 00:27:57 | |
In this episode I give a little background of how I got into video, capturing stories around the world, and eventually, here, as a podcaster and host of The Global Grit Experience. Examples of videos mentioned in the podcast Volkswagen ID.4 Road Trip - What Fuels You- Ep.1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ85tn5HDJ0 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV - Soul Pursuits Ep.1 - https://youtu.be/mlRZ-lckRWs?si=_CAeZTq5fLGZhxHd Soul of of the Western Balkans: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahpRDIo87n0&list=PLbXm1PcDvCSe_PjQUF6v1F51amDjI4cq7&index=24&t=2s Woodland League - Ireland: https://youtu.be/MUT6miz2Kys | |||
| Self-Interest vs Environmental Sustainability. Can we Find the Balance? | 25 août 2026 | 00:20:03 | |
How do we as humans balance our self-interest drive with environmental sustainability. There’s no easy answer but it’s definitely worth pondering, talking about, and hopefully acting on for the future of our natural world (and us). My guest today is Dr. Dennis Jacobs, retired physics professor, pilot, aeronautical engineer, sustainability educator, and author of multiple books. Subscribe and Follow The Global Grit Experience: Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| How a Small Group of Locals Created a Huge Nature-Based Park in their Hometown | 18 août 2026 | 00:21:11 | |
How do you make stuff happen - like saving a beautiful area from development and creating instead an amazing nature-based park that the locals, wildlife, and tourists love? Let’s find out in this episode with guest, Polly Andersen. Polly’s love of nature led her to champion the Wannigan Regional Park in her hometown of Frazee, MN. Resources https://wanniganpark.com/ Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I SO appreciate you! | |||
| The Amazing Honey Bee Matriarchal Society and a Year in Beekeeping with Sawyer Gilsdorf | 11 août 2026 | 00:22:03 | |
Honey bees! In this episode I chat with Sawyer Gilsdorf, professional beekeeper with Björn’s Colorado Honey in Boulder, Colorado (and my awesome nephew) to learn what’s involved with beekeeping year round in colder winter climates. And, of course, learn some amazing honey bee fun facts and their intricate matriarchal society. Resources: Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| Why are Three Specific Bird Species the Focus of Conservation in Minnesota? | 04 août 2026 | 00:25:17 | |
Emilia Skogen fell in love with birds at a young age and has been working with them ever since. In today's episode, I talk with her about why she's specifically working with three bird species in Minnesota and what conservation for them looks like through forestry management. Emilia is a Minnesota Public Lands Conservation Forester with the American Bird Conservancy. RESOURCES https://abcbirds.org/ways-to-give/ https://abcbirds.org/get-involved/ Outdoor Heritage Fund work - Details about the three bird species Emilia works with, where the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) works, and how many acres of habitat ABC has worked with partner agencies to manage for birds so far. https://abcbirds.org/where-we-work/north-america/great-lakes-ohf-grants/ FREE FORESTRY FOR MINNESOTA BIRDS GUIDE https://www.birds.cornell.edu/landtrust/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ForestryForMNBirdsGuidebook.pdf EMILIA SKOGEN CONTACT INFORMATION Fee free to email or call Emilia if they'd like more information on any topics, or want to connect with ABC's private lands foresters on managing their land for birds and other wildlife: eskogen@abcbirds.org / (612) 439-2011 Contact Emilia for any information about ball cactus. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES WI DNR MOSS (managed old-growth silvicultural study) https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/research/moss Audubon MN secretive marsh bird surveys https://www.audubon.org/umr/projects/monitoring-secretive-marsh-birds-minnesota Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| Why Protecting Public Lands Matters - And How We Can Help | 28 juil. 2026 | 00:19:16 | |
In this episode I hit the North Country Trail with Matt Davis, the Regional Trail Coordinator for MN, ND and WI for the nonprofit, North Country Trail Association. We talk about this beautiful 5,000 mile trail, why public lands are important (in SO many ways), how they’re being taken away, sold, and at risk, and what we can do to stop this attack. Matt also shares a few summer tips to keep us safe and comfy hiking. Resources North Country Trail Association: northcountrytrail.org Sierra Club: https://www.sierraclub.org/issues/environment/public-lands Trust for Public Land: https://www.tpl.org League of Conservation Voters: https://www.lcv.org 5 Calls - An easy place to call your legislators to protect public lands: https://5calls.org/ Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| We Just Experienced Climate Chaos in MN - What Do We Do Next? | 21 juil. 2026 | 00:30:45 | |
Minnesota's AQI hit record highs recently during the wildfires making it feel apocalyptic with smoky, brown skies, evacuated homes, and air quality that made it dangerous and painful to breathe. Erika sits down in the midst of it with guest Julia Frost Nerbonne, Executive Director of Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light to talk about what it was like experiencing climate chaos firsthand and what diverse faiths are doing together to move forward with climate solutions. This conversation is real, inspiring, and hopeful. Resources: www.mnipl.org Julia@mnipl.org 651.301.8195 Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| How Small-Scale Farming Changed Cody's Life | 14 juil. 2026 | 00:16:26 | |
Erika sits down and talks with farmer Cody Kurowski at his Sower’s Harvest Farm in Fergus Falls, MN to find out what got him into farming, why he’s going the chemical-free route, and how you farm year-round in a frigid winter state like Minnesota. Resources: Sower’s Harvest Farm https://www.sowersharvestfarm.com/ https://www.facebook.com/sowersharvestfarm/ https://www.instagram.com/sowersharvestfarm/ Summer Veggie Recipes: https://pinchofyum.com/summer-produce-recipes https://www.bakedbymelissa.com/blogs/recipes/farm-stand-salad https://www.homechef.com/meals/farmstand-salad Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| What's a Food Co-op & is 'Organic' for Real? | 07 juil. 2026 | 00:18:20 | |
What's different with a food co-op and can we really trust the organic food label? Erika talks with farmer and Manna Food Co-op General Manager, Ryan Pesch. Ryan started Lida Farm near Pelican Rapids, MN in 2004 and brings unique perspectives as a farmer, business person, and healthy foods advocate that is relevant wherever you live. Ryan refers to it as the good food movement in today's episode. Resources: Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience. I appreciate you! | |||
| FROGS! with Interpretive Park Ranger, Kelly Blackledge | 30 juin 2026 | 00:16:54 | |
Love frogs? Toads? Kelly sure does and shares with us why. In today’s episode, Erika talks with Interpretive Park Ranger of 30 years, Kelly Blackledge to learn some fun facts about frogs, their sounds, how they survive in winter, and how they're doing out there. Resources: Frog & Toad Opera https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/reptiles_amphibians/frogs_toads/opera.html Record your sightings on HerpMapper Minnesota Frog Watch https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteering/frogtoad_survey/index.html FrogWatch USA https://www.akronzoo.org/frogwatch-usa-volunteers Malformed Frogs Found in MN https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs-043-01/ Book: Peril in the Ponds: Deformed Frogs, Politics, and a Biologist's Quest by Judy Helgen (Author) Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for listening and being a part of The Global Grit Experience! | |||
| Easy & Cheap Alternatives for Non-Toxic Cleaning Supplies For Your Home | 23 juin 2026 | 00:16:16 | |
It's crazy how many toxic and hazardous 'cleaning' supplies we use in our homes. There's a better way. In today’s episode, Erika sits down with former Household Hazardous Waste Coordinator, Sandy Gunderson to talk about alternative cleaning supplies that are easy to make, better for us and the environment, and will save us lots of money. Cha-Ching! DIY Ways-TO-Clean-Green Resources: https://greenamerica.org/ways-to-clean-green https://homesteadingfamily.com/homemade-cleaning-recipes/ https://dakotavalleyrecyclingmn.gov/green-cleaners https://islandgreenliving.org/non-toxic-cleaning/ Follow The Global Grit Experience: Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit: www.theglobalgritexperience.com Thanks for being a part of The Global Grit Experience! | |||
| Tapping Into Micro-Courage to Speak Up with Dr. Karen Branden | 16 juin 2026 | 00:34:42 | |
For this episode, I’ve invited Dr. Karen Branden back on the show to talk about a topic that’s been bugging me. Why do we as humans often not speak up and challenge things that we know, at least deep down, are wrong? It’s frustrating as hell why so many people in power are doing this, but how can we, our little spread out, but collective selves around the planet do things differently to make a difference? A recent podcast guest calls it having micro-courage and that intrigued me. In this episode Dr. Karen Branden talks about our human nature, societal upbringing, and experiments that shed some light on why we tend to stay silent, and most importantly, how we can break that pattern of 'group-think’ with a bit of micro-courage. You can listen to the podcast here or wherever you like to listen to podcasts. You can also follow The Global Grit Experience on IG and FB. I’d love to hear from you! Let me know what you think and any topics you’d like to hear about on the show. Follow The Global Grit Experience on Instagram: @thegloabgritexperience Follow The Global Grit on Facebook: @theglobalgritexperience Visit www.theglobalgritexperience.com | |||
| Finding the Sweet Spot - Green Technology & Economic Sense | 09 juin 2026 | 00:32:29 | |
Jim Goodman, the owner of Bob’s Cabins in Two Harbors, MN has done what I think is very unusual in today’s world. He’s not bulldozing down a quaint getaway but instead restoring it AND building in energy efficiency and renewable energy to make it more affordable for guests to have extended stays. Having worked for most of his life in the energy field, Jim says its about ethics to pursue renewable energy and energy efficiency because it makes economic sense. He calls it the sweet spot…doing good and saving money. Jim's perspective and tactics are things you can incorporate too, in your home or business. Jim was born on the Iron Range, grew up in Two Harbors, MN, and worked at Bob’s Cabins on Lake Superior during high school. He’s a husband and dad, volunteers with the University of Minnesota Extension’s Northeast Regional Sustainable Development Partnership, and loves to bike, hike, and sail. For Bob's Cabins, he's all about progressing its operational smoothness through electrification and lowering its carbon footprint. You can learn about Bob’s Cabins below: https://www.bobscabinsonlakesuperior.com/ | |||
| Loving on BUGS with Entomologist Jessica Wyn Miller | 02 juin 2026 | 00:25:50 | |
I've been hearing people saying lately how much they hate bugs or are scared of certain bugs and I’m like, I gotta do an episode on bugs…because we need bugs and they’re really so intricate and amazing. And, because I think it would be fun to learn a little bit more about them. My guest today is Jessica Wyn Miller. She’s an environmental entomologist and insect advocate. She’s the owner of Dragons Wynd that shares the wonder and fascination of the insects and the services they provide in our own yards and environments around the globe. She does a lot of talks and workshops and uses current research and interesting facts to help people laugh and inspire a respect for insect behavior, their heavy workload, and environmental needs. Jessica shares with us some bug fun facts, their role up the food chain for birds, fish, and turtles for example that we like to see in our yards, parks, lakes and rivers and how we can protect and nurture them to thrive. You can learn more about Dragons Wynd or reach out to Jessica below: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DragonsWyndInsects | |||
| Tips for Planting a Pollinator Garden | 26 mai 2026 | 00:23:57 | |
Today we’re talking about planting for pollinators! A few years ago I received a Lawns to Legumes pollinator habitat grant through a MN statewide education program called Blue Thumb which is part of the nonprofit, Metro Blooms based in Minneapolis. Metro Blooms partners with communities and folks to create outdoor spaces that’s good for the water and land like installing rain gardens that filter and clean water and native plantings the provide habitat for pollinators. With the grant, I started my first pollinator garden which has been addictive and now has transformed a once entirely mowed backyard to about 3/4’s pollinator garden… and it’s SO much fun to see all the flowers and life back there. I’ve invited Megan and Jennifer from Metro Blooms to talk with us about how to plant for pollinators. Megan Reich is with the Education Team and Jennifer Ehlert is Vice President of the for-profit Metro blooms Design+Build that does residential and commercial design, installation and maintenance of native landscapes. But, No matter where you live, this can apply to you. Each of our little pollinator spaces, big or small are like stepping stones across the landscape to help for example, migrating monarch make their journey. And, it’s, I think, super fun. Here are a few resources: Metro Blooms Website: https://metroblooms.org/ Blue Thumb Website: https://bluethumb.org/ Blue Thumb Planting Templates: https://bluethumb.org/public-resources/ Lawns to Legumes Habitat at Home Sign Up: https://bluethumb.org/lawns-to-legumes/habitat-at-home/ Lawns to Legumes Garden Tour Day: https://bluethumb.org/garden-tour-day/ National Wildlife Federation - Native Plant Habitats - https://www.nwf.org/Native-Plant-Habitats/Plant-Native | |||
| Lessons Learned on a Winter Hike in the Colorado Rockies - a Saturday Adventure Story with Sawyer Gilsdorf | 23 mai 2026 | 00:26:08 | |
Sawyer Gilsdorf learned a few lessons on his snowy New Year's Day hike in the Colorado Rockies. | |||
| Building Nests to Help Loons | 19 mai 2026 | 00:19:17 | |
With declining natural shorelines from development, loon numbers have been hurting. People like my guest Mark Backes on Big Fish Lake in Minnesota are building loon nests to help them out. Hear what goes into making a loon nest, the success they're having, and some fun loon facts along the way. The loon calls you'll hear are recorded on Gull Lake from a friend of mine and Minnesota's 'Loon Lady', Sheila Johnston. Resources: | |||
| The Environmental Fight to Save Public and Sacred Lands with Chris Riccardo | 12 mai 2026 | 00:24:02 | |
We are at a critical time when many of our public and sacred lands across the U.S. are being threatened. Political decisions, like the recent, totally disgusting vote passed to undo protections that block copper mining in the Boundary Water’s watershed, are at risk of setting precedents for other wilderness areas, like Utah's Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument. We need to stand together, across state lines for wilderness protection. Today’s Guest is Chris Riccardo, the Midwest organizer with the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA). Hear about what's happening with the Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument, how congress is seeking to roll back protections, and what you can do (that's easy) to help. After listening, I hope you’ll take action and go to SUWA.org or make a quick call to your members of congress to vote NO on resolutions to undo the Grand Staircase-Escalante management plan. We gotta keep the pressure on together. For more info, Chris shared these resources: DC’s Switchboard: 202.224.3121 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/W1FceOMx_XQ https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/fbdd127c2bfb421a8fe56f579f252892 | |||
| Saturday Adventure Short - A Very Special Mother's Day with a Dog | 09 mai 2026 | 00:11:51 | |
This was a Mother's Day of divine intervention. | |||
| Managing Kids' Screen Time with Author Erin Walsh | 06 mai 2026 | 00:45:04 | |
Today’s episode on the challenge of balancing technology or screen time for the kids in our lives I think is really relatable to so many of us. But, how is this related to the Global Grit Experience that's about nature and the outdoors? Well, when kids and teenagers would rather be looking at a screen inside than doing something outside, we’re losing that important connection to nature and the outdoors in our kids. My guest today is FABULOUS to give us some info and tips (without shame) on how to help us with the ever changing technology pressure on our kids. Erin Walsh is the co-founder of Minnesota-based Spark & Stitch Institute. Her work has been featured in publications like the Washington Post, Minnesota Public Radio, Psychology Today, and Parents.com and she co-authored the bestselling Tenth Anniversary Edition of Why Do They Act That Way? And, her latest book, It’s Their World: Teens, Screens, and the Science of Adolescence, is out now. Erin is also a parent herself and she gets it. Navigating technology for the kids in our lives is hard. But, she's hear to help. Take a listen. Erin also shared some resources with us below: Book: https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/books/erin-walsh-its-their-world/ First Device Guide: https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/learn/free-resources/first-device-guide/ New Device Agreement: https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/First-Device-Agreements.pdf I'd Rather Inventory: https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/Id-Rather-Inventory-2020.pdf | |||
| What's Next for the Boundary Waters with Sam Chadwick | 29 avr. 2026 | 00:29:10 | |
Yowza that was a real blow with the recent Senate’s vote to overturn a 20-year ban on mining near the Boundary Waters. Argh! That vote from the House and then the Senate means voiding the protection of 225,000 acres in the Superior National Forest allowing the advancement to Twin Metals sulfide-ore copper mining upstream of the Boundary Waters wilderness near Ely, MN. This isn’t just about the Boundary Waters. These kinds of votes can set a precedent for other protected areas as well in the U.S. I’m just so disgusted as I know many of you are, too. So, let’s talk about it, get some info, see what’s next, and what we can do. My guest today is Sam Chadwick. Since 2014, Sam has helped lead the Ely, Minnesota-based national campaign to protect America's most-visited wilderness from proposed copper mining. As the Associate Director for Save the Boundary Waters and Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness, she's involved in advocacy, partnerships, and creative projects for this coalition of 400+ businesses, conservation, access, and sporting allies. Sam lives in Minnesota and loves exploring the outdoors with her kids. You can learn more and take action at www.SavetheBoundaryWaters.org | |||
| Saturday Adventure Short - An Odd Meeting in Honduras | 25 avr. 2026 | 00:06:38 | |
This story is about a film shoot in Honduras, a lost dad, and a local. Sometimes intuition is everything. I love adventure stories! If you have one, message me to be a guest on my podcast @theglobalgritexperience. Hugs! | |||
| Channeling Anger into Meaningful Action with Hallie Pond | 21 avr. 2026 | 00:39:03 | |
Today’s guest is Hallie Pond from Pine River, MN. I asked her to be a guest because I don’t know about you, but I can get so damn angry and frustrated with things going on in the world….and with our fellow human beings, who some, I’m confident we can all agree, are real shits. But, anger builds conflict and conflict can start to break down communication. And, what we need now more than ever is clear, honest, bold communication. Hallie Pond is the founder of Truespace Consulting. She helps people connect more authentically, building skills to enhance communication and engage in conflict in healthy, dignified (I don’t think that includes dropping the f-bomb) and courageous ways. She holds a masters in Organizational Psychology and an advanced certificate in Cooperation and Conflict Resolution from Columbia University. So, deep breath...let’s pick up a few tips from Hallie on how to go forth in this crazy world. You can learn more at truespaceconsulting.com about Hallie's conflict resiliency training, coaching and mediation for businesses, schools, and communities. | |||
| Scott Gives Wildlife Space to Breathe on His Restored Prairie | 17 avr. 2026 | 00:28:32 | |
Scott is SO INSPIRING! Man, he in his signature black cowboy hat has been making serious headway for nature in southwest Minnesota. I’ve been to his land, got to walk among his restored prairie and soak in the quiet, see all sorts of wild flowers and watch more fireflies at night than I’ve seen since I was a kid. Scott Rall runs his own business by day and is a conservationist every other second of his life. He’s a 30-year volunteer for Pheasants Forever, was awarded the Hero of Conservation Award by Field and Stream magazine, and has SO Much GRIT dedicated to giving wildlife a place to breathe. Scott wanted me to let you know he’d love to talk with any of you interested in as he calls it, 'catching the conservation fever'. He’d be happy to give any tips or help on how to do restoration work or taking steps in conservation. You can reach him on socials @habitatchampion His number is 507.360.6027 Or email is scottarall@gmail.com | |||
| Spring Migration! Learn Bird Calls with Park Ranger Kelly Blackledge | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:19:16 | |
Kelly Blackledge knows her birds! She's so much fun to talk with, especially this time of year during spring migration as the woods, wetlands, lakes and bird feeders start getting busy baby. And, beautifully noisy! It's SO much fun hearing the first sandhill crane of the year, or the loon, or so many other birds we all love. Kelly has over 30 years' experience as an Interpretive Park Ranger and a degree in Animal Ecology. She helps coordinate her local Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds, is a volunteer for the Minnesota loon watcher survey, and you’ll be able to tell… LOVES birds. Listen in, hear some bird calls, and impress your friends with a few fun facts. Resources: | |||
| Saturday Adventure Short - I was Drowning! | 11 avr. 2026 | 00:05:27 | |
A scuba debacle with my little brother. If you have an adventure story, message me on FB or IG! It would be fun to share it. Thanks for being a part of the Global Grit Experience! | |||
| A Teen's Perspective on Climate Action with Myiesha Antoni | 07 avr. 2026 | 00:12:43 | |
Today’s guest is another kick ass and inspiring person I wanted to share with you. I recorded this episode before I even had a podcast. I love her grit and wanted to share her perspective as a teenager on climate action. Myiesha Antoni is an 18 year-old dual enrollment senior in high school and getting her associates degree. Dang girl. She’s from Henning Minnesota and lobbied for climate action in Washington, DC with Citizens Climate Lobby. Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy climate change organization with nationwide and international chapters. Let’s meet this awesome girl who has A LOT of grit. | |||
| Jim Etzel Makes Humanure Compost - This One's a Poop Talk | 02 avr. 2026 | 00:18:24 | |
My guest today is Jim Etzel from Hackensack, Minnesota. He’s the owner of Earth is Our Home Environmental Solutions. He’s all about having healthy soils to have healthy food and a healthy world. I met Jim at a recent community event through West Central Initiative and learned about his passion for composting….but not your typical composting. Yep, today, we’re having what he calls, the poop talk. "It's like baking cookies. You gotta get the recipe right. You gotta get the ingredients right. It breaks this material down from the ‘ew’ to topsoil." Jim Etzel If you want to get a hold of Jim, you can go to earthisourhome.net or call 218.252.3258. He'd love to talk with you. | |||
| Making Your Voice Heard with Former Congress Staffer Ben Anderson | 29 mars 2026 | 00:20:14 | |
We're asked to make calls, write letters, sign petitions, protest…to make our voices heard to the higher ups in congress. But does it matter? Do our efforts actually ever make it up the food chain to make a difference? I invited Ben Anderson to give us a little insight into this. Ben has worked for three members of congress from Minnesota, the US House Committee on Agriculture, and at the US Department of Agriculture. He shares what he thinks works, matters, and is most effective. | |||
| Staying Grounded Despite Challenges with Tessa Wolden | 25 mars 2026 | 00:25:07 | |
There's no better time than NOW to freshen up our skills on being grounded, centered and living our authentic lives, especially when everything is cray-cray and some of us are about to go off the rails (if we haven't already). I feel 'ya. I’m big into mental health and I’m super excited about my guest, Tessa Wolden, whose going to give us some good tips on how to manage today's roller coaster(s) and tap into nature and the outdoors to help. Tessa is a Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 13 years of experience. She’s recently launched her own private practice, Wind Wave Counseling, based in Edina, Minnesota. Resources: https://www.climatementalhealth.net/ | |||
| The Rise of Populism and Need for Critical Thinking with Dr. Dennis Jacobs | 23 mars 2026 | 00:19:28 | |
The rise of populism is wreaking havoc on the environment. Developing critical thinking is...well...critical, as well as challenging our world views. This was kind of a deep dive that I absolutely loved. I learned so much from Dennis in this episode. Dennis Jacobs is a retired physics professor, pilot, and aeronautical engineer. He’s the author of multiple books including The Search for Science and From McEnergy to EcoEnergy, America’s Transition to Sustainable Energy, cowritten with Sociology Professor and wife, Dr. Karen Branden (also a prior podcast guest). He and Karen built and live in an environmentally friendly house in Northern Minnesota. I could talk with Dennis about a kazillion awesome topics but I asked him what he’s most passionate about sharing and sees as a major concern when it comes to the environment. His answer….the rise of populism. | |||
| Saturday Adventure Short - There Was This Crevice... | 21 mars 2026 | 00:06:42 | |
Sometimes it's fun to just hear some outdoor adventure stories. This short story was an adventures with my dad. | |||
| How to Build a Net-Zero Energy Home with Dr. Van Gooch | 17 mars 2026 | 00:21:08 | |
Van and his wife Sue built a net-zero energy home 12 miles out of Alexandria, MN. As much as I wanted to know how they did it, it was why they did it that intrigued me. Dr. Van Gooch is a retired professor of Biology from the University of Minnesota at Morris, where he taught for 35 years. After retirement, he and Sue set themselves to this challenge. And, even if building a net-zero home isn’t in your cards, Van has good tips on what we can each do to save energy and money in where we live.... and how we live. If you have questions or would like to talk with Van about building a net-zero or energy efficient home, you can reach him at: goochv@morris.umn.edu 320-283-5222 | |||
| Why Creating Change is Hard with Sociology Professor Dr. Karen Branden | 16 mars 2026 | 00:22:18 | |
I find it interesting why we do the things we do. And, why we feel compelled to play nicey-nice when it comes to talking about the environment and climate action. I get it. No one, including myself, wants to be beaten over the head with anything, especially 'shoulds', 'coulds' or major ass guilt trips. But yet, we want to take action and action can sometimes be SO damn overwhelming and frustrating. Especially when we don't see the results we want fast enough or even sometimes, at all. Today’s guest, Dr. Karen Branden, is going to give us a bit of an inside look from a sociologist’s perspective on how we work, especially when it comes to creating change and when, yep, sometimes, it's okay to be our fierce selves. Dr. Karen Branden has a PhD in Sociology, and has been a professor of Sociology for over 20 years. She’s taught at schools around the world and is currently a professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Minnesota State University Moorhead. One of the classes she teaches, that really piqued my interest, is Society and the Environment. Karen’s joining us from her home in Rochert, MN. | |||
| Religion and Climate Action with Pastor Beth Monke | 12 mars 2026 | 00:17:28 | |
Today, we’re talking with Pastor Beth Monke. I wanted to talk with Beth to hear about climate action from a religious or spiritual perspective. Beth is a Pastor at the Grove Lake Lutheran Church in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota AND she’s a climate activist! Whoop! Whoop! Beth is the Citizen's Climate Lobby (CCL) co-leader for the Fergus Falls, MN chapter. Beth has a lot of depth and wisdom you'll love to hear. Citizen's Climate Lobby is a nonpartisan organization that empowers every day people (like you and me) to work together on climate policy. There are 420+ chapters across the US and 150+ international chapters on 6 continents. Pretty cool if you’re looking for ways to get involved in your own community. Beth is also a former outpatient mental health therapist. | |||
| Kids are Thriving in Dacia's Outdoor Nature School in MN | 09 mars 2026 | 00:19:43 | |
Dacia Dauner built an outdoor nature school in Bemidji, MN. Picture a combo of a twenty something below winter and kids in cozy yurts for classrooms…. and you have Apple Blossom Nature School. She (and the kids and other teachers) have GRiT! Dacia Dauner is the founder of Apple Blossom Village, a micro-school that provides nature-based programs for kids, families and the community year round. | |||
| Getting Politically Active For The Environment with Celeste Koppe | 06 mars 2026 | 00:23:54 | |
One of the biggest things we can do for the outdoor places we love and a world we want to see where nature is priority and not a commodity is to get engaged politically, learn about and support environmental candidates and VOTE for the environment. Speaking up, standing up and voting for nature takes GRiT… but like I say, nature deserves our grit, right? Let’s learn a few tips on what we can do and how we can get involved when we really don't want to, but we know we have to. It doesn't have to be painful. Celeste Koppe is the Communications Officer on the Board of Directors for the Detroit Lakes Minnesota League of Women Voters. League of Women voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. | |||
| Feeling Overwhelmed? Coping Tips with Dr. Jonathan Aligada | 28 févr. 2026 | 00:28:48 | |
The Global Grit Experience is about having GRIT... passion and perseverance and an unwavering dedication to protecting nature despite challenges. And there are a lot of challenges out there right now, holy hell. Especially for the environment. But, having grit can sound exhausting, right? Especially when we’re worn out, overwhelmed and want to hide under the covers. So, I thought it would be good to kick this baby off with what I think is top tier important…your mental health. Because, without it, we burn out and drop out and that’s not good for you, for us, or for our precious outdoors. Because we each have something to contribute! Right? We’re amazing! My first guest is Dr. Jonathan Aligada here in my hometown. He shares mental health coping strategies to take care of ourselves so we can be our best selves. Dr. Aligada is an adult clinical psychologist at Sanford Health in Detroit Lakes, MN. I’ve interviewed Dr. Aligada before for a mental health video series and am SO grateful he’s able to join us for this podcast. Thanks for tuning in! | |||