The Outside The Box Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Feeling burned out in the classroom—even though you still love the work? In this episode, Ade shares five practical ways to reignite joy, connection, and creativity when teaching starts to feel heavy. From putting the phone down and stepping back into play, to taking your cohort beyond the fence line and introducing collaborative storytelling, these simple shifts can breathe fresh life into your days without overhauling your whole program. Whether you’re a founder, director, or teacher wearing all the hats, this episode is a reminder that burnout does not always mean it’s time to quit—sometimes it means something needs to shift. In this episode, we cover: How constant documentation may be draining your presence Why collaborative projects can reset group energy The power of changing your environment when routines feel stale How modeling restful connection impacts children and educators alike Why storytelling can transform confidence, creativity, and cohort dynamics What burnout may actually be trying to tell you as a leader If you’re in a season of depletion, this one is for you.

Running a nature- and play-based program comes with beautiful, meaningful work—but also incredibly hard, often invisible decisions. In this episode, we talk about what it really looks like to lead when things feel uncertain, emotional, and high-stakes. From questioning whether a family is the right fit mid-year, to navigating weather cancellations and running out of snow days, to holding firm to policies when your heart wants to bend—this is the side of leadership no one prepares you for. If you’ve ever found yourself second-guessing decisions, people-pleasing, or quietly holding the weight of your program alone, this episode will remind you that you’re not doing it wrong—you’re doing the real work of leadership.

If you’re dreaming about starting your own nature or play-based program—but feel overwhelmed about where to begin—you’re in the right place. Today, we’re breaking it down into three essential steps: building your support circle, navigating licensing, and securing your space. Plus, we’ll talk about the heart of it all—your why. Let’s ground your vision and get you moving, one step at a time.

Hidden under that mountain of laundry and dishes in the sink, buried within the catacombs of your to-do list - there's a message for future you. Walk with Ade as she shares how to move through seasons of overwhelm and give action steps on how to make your daily "grind" 5-10% more enjoyable. Hint: the little things are the big things. Tune into episode 24 for more details!

Nature and nutrition go together like pollinators and wildflowers. Walk with Ade as she shares her journey and discoveries in how taking a closer look at what and how she was fueling her body majorly shifted how she showed up in the space she shares with children in her forest classroom!

In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how optimizing energy isn’t just about food and movement—but also about sleep. After working with a nutritionist in preparation for USS Nationals, I discovered that despite doing everything “right,” my sleep was the missing piece. Join me as we dive into sleep cycles, daily habits, and how aligning our personal energy affects how we show up in the spaces we share with children. Plus, practical steps to investigate your own energy layers and make sustainable changes. Tune in and start building a more energized, present version of yourself—one layer at a time. UPDATE: Turns out that my percentages aren't too terrible! How about you? Use the link below to learn more about sleep cycles and how much time is recommended to be in each stage. More info on sleep stages and cycles: https://www.simplypsychology.org/sleep-stages.html

In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how nature’s seasonal rhythms can inspire us to rethink the traditional New Year's resolutions. Instead of setting goals in the depth of winter, we discuss why spring is the perfect time for new beginnings. Tune in to learn how aligning with nature’s cycles can bring balance, creativity, and renewal to both your personal growth and your work with children. Plus, practical tips on incorporating seasonal rhythms into classroom routines and home life.

Welcome back to Outside the Box! I’m your host, Ade Hofmann, and in this episode, we’re diving into the deeply personal journey of creating something from scratch—whether it’s a program, a project, or a vision for your life. The process is so much more than the end result. It’s messy, emotional, and full of unexpected beauty. Join me as we unpack what it means to build something meaningful, embrace the twists and turns, and find joy in the journey. Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s take this walk together.

www.natureplayallday.org 

Nature Play Blueprint 4 Week Intensive

In this episode, The Discipline of Freedom: How Structure Sets Us Free in Nature-Based Education, we explore the transformative power of routines and rhythms in outdoor learning. Discover how intentional structure creates safety and trust, empowering children to take risks, explore, and build meaningful connections with the natural world—and with the educators who guide them. Join us as we redefine discipline, not as control, but as the foundation for freedom and growth in nature-based education.

FREE DOWNLOAD: The 15 Minute Rule