PLAY PODCASTS
Raising Wildlings

Raising Wildlings

Vicci Oliver and Nicki Farrell

182 episodesEN-AU

Show overview

Raising Wildlings has been publishing since 2020, and across the 4 years since has built a catalogue of 182 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 130 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 5th season.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 31 min and 55 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. It is catalogued as a EN-AU-language Kids & Family show.

The catalogue appears to be on hiatus or wound down — the most recent episode landed 1.6 years ago, with no new episodes in over a year. Published by Vicci Oliver and Nicki Farrell.

Episodes
182
Running
2020–2024 · 4y
Median length
41 min
Cadence
Fortnightly

From the publisher

Welcome to Raising Wildlings, a podcast about parenting, alternative education and stepping into the wilderness, however that looks, with your family. Each week, we’ll be interviewing experts that truly inspire us, to answer your parenting and education questions. We’ll also be sharing stories from some incredible families that took the leap, and are taking the road less travelled. Whether you’re a parent looking for tips on how to better handle those sibling squabbles and tantrums, a couple searching for ways to create more freedom within your family’s lifestyle, an educator keen to explore alternative schooling models and how children learn, a father keen to delve into respectful parenting philosophies, or a mother wanting to learn more about why play is so important and how to get children outdoors safely, then this is the podcast for you. Each week you’ll get tried and tested tactics from parenting, play and education experts to help you on your journey towards creating the happiest, healthiest lifestyle you can for your family. We’ll also chat to real life families who have created freedom within their lives and are living life on their own terms. They’ll teach you how they did it and how you can too. And of course, you’ll hear from us about all things nature play and alternative education. We’ll answer all your questions on how children learn, the importance of play in all its forms, children’s rights and autonomy, and how to get your children outside safely, more often. This podcast hopes to empower parents and educators to raise kinder, more resilient, more adaptable children by helping them maintain happy connections and healthy lifestyles. So, what are you waiting for?! Let's dive in! Hit subscribe now to be notified when new episodes go live. To download our free Respectful Language Printable Cheat Sheet, head to: www.wildlingsforestschool.com/shop/respectful-language

Latest Episodes

View all 182 episodes

S5 Ep 15From Australia to Tuscany: Embracing a Boundless Life of World Schooling with Denise Georges

Send us Fan MailHow does a single mum from Australia's Sunshine Coast end up world schooling in Tuscany?Denise Georges shares her courageous leap from skepticism about homeschooling to embracing world schooling in the beautiful countryside of Italy. After losing her job during the pandemic, Denise discovered the transformative power of alternative education systems, all while navigating personal challenges and societal expectations. Her story is a testament to the strength required to break away from conventional paths for the sake of family and personal fulfillment.We chat about the innovative Boundless Life program, founded by Mauro Rapici, which offers families the chance to live and learn in stunning global locations. With destinations spanning Europe and beyond, this episode uncovers how families can effortlessly balance work, education, and adventure. Denise invites you to redefine family life and education by embracing travel and the path less travelled. Get inspired to break free from societal pressures, explore new possibilities, and perhaps embark on your very own boundless journey!Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Nov 11, 202458 min

S5 Ep 14From Science to Business: A Nature Play Adventure with Courtney Sullivan of WildPlay Co

Send us Fan MailCourtney Sullivan, the founder of Wild Play Co., joins us to share her journey from academia to entrepreneurship. Inspired by her background in exercise science and concern over youth's sedentary lifestyles, she embarked on creating a nature play business, WildPlay Co, in Bendigo, Victoria.We chat about:Launching a business while parenting young children and the unique challenges it bringsThe flexibility entrepreneurship offers as a parentThe importance of connecting with like-minded individuals who share her passion for outdoor education and environmental conservationManaging permits and zoning hurdlesCrafting authentic marketing messages and the power of storytelling in marketing.The importance of a diverse and dedicated team in their successHow the Wild Business course bolstered her confidence to ask questions and seek guidance through the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship.And we celebrated Wild Play Co. first year, and hear all about Courtney's exciting plans for the future.Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and the keys to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape with resilience and adaptability. Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Nov 5, 202459 min

S5 Ep 13What is Forest School?

Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered how to foster a deeper connection between children and the natural world? On this episode of Raising Wildlings, we sit down with soon-to-be Dr. Amanda England, an expert in nature play philosophy and pedagogy, currently pursuing her PhD in Australia. Amanda unpacks the essence of Forest School in Australia, highlighting how this approach encourages free play and curiosity-driven learning in outdoor environments, emphasising the importance of play with risk and adventure . You'll discover how children can learn about sustainability, community, and indigenous connections through their interactions with nature.Amanda's research underscores the value of regular, uninterrupted play in the same natural space, allowing children to witness and engage with seasonal changes. She passionately believes that this continuity fosters a meaningful and sustainable relationship with the natural world. We discuss the need for extended play periods and a holistic approach to education where children learn with, from, and in nature. You'll hear about the significant benefits of viewing humans as an integral part of nature, rather than as separate entities, and how this perspective can transform educational practices.So grab your boots and join us for an insightful journey into the wild world of Forest Schooling. Stay wild!Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Oct 28, 202434 min

S5 Ep 12Fostering Family Connections and Resilience Through Outdoor Education with Kristi Bryant

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to create meaningful outdoor experiences for families? Join us as we sit down with Kristi Bryant, passionate outdoor and environmental educator behind Bushwalking Mama. Kristi opens up about her journey in documenting and inspiring family-friendly outdoor activities, and the innovative methods she employs to integrate play and connection into outdoor learning. In this episode, we spotlight the significance of autonomy and personal choice in outdoor activities. Kristi emphasises the need for positive relationships and accommodating individual needs to foster a genuine connection with nature. We discuss the delicate balance between encouraging participation and respecting personal boundaries, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and respected in their outdoor educational adventures. Kristi's approach underscores the importance of gradual steps and listening to individual concerns, creating a supportive environment conducive to learning and growth.We also explore the transformative power of outdoor education in building resilience and overcoming fears. Kristi shares personal experiences and the challenges of starting a business in the nature play industry, from risk assessments to insurance hurdles. Tune in for an inspiring episode that champions the resilience, collaboration, and passion at the heart of outdoor education and nature play.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Oct 21, 20241h 16m

S5 Ep 11Big Hearted Education: Creating Connections Through Family Daycare with Victoria Edmond

Send us Fan MailCurious about the world of Family Day Care and how it might be the perfect fit for your child? Join us as we sit down with Victoria Edmond of Big Hearted Education and Rainbow Bridge Family Daycare Service. Victoria takes us through her inspiring journey from long daycare disillusionment to creating her own nurturing Family Day Care service and debunks the myth that family daycare can't be profitable. We cover:What is the difference between Family Day Care and Long Day Care and why might you choose one over the other as a parent?How do children access nature in a Family Day Care Service?What about child protection concerns in Family Day Care?How can I transition out of Long Day Care into Family Day Care?And we bust the myth that you can’t make a profit as a family day care service. So let’s welcome Victoria to the show!We know as a parents, making the choice between Long Day Care, Family Day Care and Kindy can be a hard choice. Hopefully today’s episode with Victoria will answer a few of your burning questions and give you some tips on what to look out for in any service. And if you’re an educator listening today, we hope it answers some questions you have around why you might choose to become a Family Day Care provider and what to look for when joining a service. As always, we love your thoughts, feedback and questions, so feel free to DM us with any questions you may have over on our Raising Wildlings Instagram.Stay wild!Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Oct 14, 202445 min

S5 Ep 9The Software Programs We Recommend for Wild Businesses at Start-Up

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could launch a thriving nature play business without breaking the bank? Most of you listening are nature loving hands-on type people. So when you’re thinking about starting a Nature Play business of your own, you might feel really confident in the Nature Play side of things but terrified of the day-to-day running of business. The other thing that worries people is the cost of start-up. So in this episode, we thought we’d tackle these two problems in one hit and give you a list of free, easy to use software programs to get you started on your Wild Business journey.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Oct 7, 202426 min

S5 Ep 11What's in a Name? Forest School, Nature Play or Bush Kindy? Insights from Amanda England

Send us Fan MailCan a name shape the way we connect with nature through education? On this episode of Raising Wildlings, we are joined by the insightful (and soon-to-be Dr) Amanda England, as we unpack the nuances behind terms such "Forest School," "Nature Play," and "Bush Kinder," and discuss how these names reflect the unique environments and philosophies they represent.Amanda shares her rich experiences from Europe, offering a global perspective on how these programs are practiced differently. We also delve into the importance of place-responsiveness, especially within the diverse landscapes of Australia, and debate the necessity of a unified term for nature-based education.We also explore the essential elements of a shared Nature Play philosophy and the strides made towards unifying various nature play bodies in Australia, and touch on the challenges of maintaining a genuine commitment to child-directed play, beyond just marketing allure.We encourage our listeners to join us in this lively debate over terminology and contribute your thoughts and innovative ideas. Get ready to rethink how we name and perceive Nature Play!Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Oct 2, 202417 min

Thriving in the Legal Landscape of Nature Play

Send us Fan MailAre you grappling with the fear of cease and desist letters or the anxiety of operating your nature play business in legal grey zones? Get ready to arm yourself with essential insights and practical advice that can help you stay compliant and successful in this challenging landscape. We'll help you understand where your business fits within outdoor recreation, education, and environmental education and clarify how these definitions impact your regulatory obligations. By focusing on the purpose, age group, and structure of your programs, you’ll learn how to navigate the often complex regulatory landscape effectively and ensure your nature play business thrives without legal hurdles.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Aug 5, 202424 min

Turning Criticism into Growth: Navigating Feedback and Articulating Value in Nature Play Programs

Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt crushed by criticism from a parent, especially when you're pouring your heart into your business? We've been there. This week, we share our emotional journey as nature play program facilitators, discussing how initially taking negative feedback to heart, evolved into seeing it as a critical avenue for growth. By reframing criticism and using it to reaffirm our beliefs and improve communication, we’ve developed a more resilient mindset that empowers us to turn critiques into valuable learning experiences.We also dive into the significance of clearly articulating the value and philosophy behind our nature programs to parents. Discover how emphasizing the intangible benefits—like fostering deep flow states and promoting non-traditional learning—can help parents appreciate the true impact on their children. Balancing feedback while staying true to our mission is key, and we explain why being explicit about our program’s offerings attracts the right participants. Join us for an insightful conversation on navigating feedback, maintaining authenticity, and ensuring that those who genuinely align with our goals thrive within our program.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Jul 29, 202421 min

Lifelong Learning, Challenging Conversations, and Reenergizing Business: Insights from the Forest School Podcast

Send us Fan MailThis is part one of a two part episode! You can find Part one over at The Forest School Podcast - we suggest you jump over and start there if you haven't listened to part one yet!⁠⁠And don't forget to give them a follow on their socials here:The Forest School Podcast InstagramThe Forest School Podcast FacebookChildren of the Forest UK InstagramWhat happens when educators step out of their comfort zones and embrace diverse perspectives? Get ready for an insightful and playful conversation with Lewis Ames and Gemma Southerden of the Forest School Podcast as we explore the journey of lifelong learning in education. We dive into the benefits and challenges of continuous professional development and reveal the importance of breaking free from our echo chambers. By engaging with diverse cultures we uncover how these experiences enrich our understanding and teaching practices. Navigating discomfort and fostering meaningful conversations is a crucial part of professional growth. Together, we address the complexities of Australia's history and the fear of making mistakes due to white fragility. By promoting transparency and the willingness to ask questions, we discuss how educators and business owners can support those with less capacity for continual learning. Creating accessible content like podcasts and handouts is just one way to facilitate these challenging yet necessary conversations, paving the way for significant change and understanding.Balancing business partnerships with personal values can be a tightrope walk, but it doesn't have to be daunting. Inspired by principles from Marshall Rosenberg's "Nonviolent Communication," we delve into the art of navigating difficult conversations and the concept of shadow values. Reflecting on the dual nature of personal strengths, we discuss how self-care, validation, and community support are vital in maintaining our passion for business and family. Join us for a heartfelt reflection on reenergizing our entrepreneurial spirits through mutual support, creativity, and a shared commitment to lifelong learning.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Jul 22, 202437 min

Unmasking Neurodiversity: Jane McFadden's Journey Through ADHD, Autism, and Parenting

Send us Fan MailDiscover the transformative journey of Jane McFadden, a former psychologist and founder of ADHD Mums, as she shares her late ADHD and autism diagnoses. Jane's candid recollection of the challenges she faced as a mother of three, and the realization of her neurodivergence when her eldest child started school, provides crucial insights into the intersection of neurodiversity and parenting. This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating similar paths, especially those in alternative education settings like forest schools, highlighting the importance of recognizing and supporting neurodivergent traits in both children and adults.In this episode, we uncover the chaos and revelations of adult ADHD diagnoses, illustrated by Jane's impulsive decision to embark on a year-long caravan trip around Australia, which brought her ADHD symptoms to the forefront. Her story underscores the unique way ADHD manifests in women and girls, challenging common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and support. From managing a busy lifestyle to persistent psychological consultations, we delve into the real-life impact of living with undiagnosed ADHD and the eventual clarity that comes with understanding one's condition.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Jul 15, 20241h 18m

Embracing the Magic of Stick Play with Wildlings Forest School

Send us Fan MailEver reminisced about the simple joys of childhood when a stick wasn't just a stick but a sword, a wand, or a companion on countless adventures? In today's episode, Nicki and Vicci will unravel the hidden developmental treasures found in stick play and how adults can prioritise safety without dampening the spirit of creativity.Listen in as Nicki and Vicci share their extensive knowledge of:🌱 The benefits of stick play🌱 How to find 'the perfect stick'🌱What's a 'blood bubble' and how does it create safety🌱 Antedotes and insights on guiding children to play responsibly🌱How and why children must be a part of shaping the safety rules 🌱Adults roles in recognising children's emotional cuesBringing the outdoors in can be daunting, especially in childcare settings, but it's not impossible and this episode will renew your appreciation for stick play with practical approaches to make it an enriching part of outdoor learning.

Feb 27, 202429 min

Navigating Sex Education As Parents with Cath Hakanson

Send us Fan MailIt's time to gain the confidence to flex your 'uncomfortable muscles' and become an agent of positive change in your family's life – because when it comes to sex education, silence is not an option.This week we're chatting with Cath Hakanson, mother, sex educator, and founder of Sex Ed Rescue. Cath is all about helping kids and parents have better relationships through empowering conversations. With the right tools, self-confidence, and strategies, sex education can be less threatening, more natural, and much easier.Cath is a firm believer that if kids can talk to their parents about sex, they can talk to their parents about anything!In this episode Cath shares:0:00 Empowering Parent-Child Conversations on Sex11:38 Talking About Families, Relationships, and Pleasure19:34 Open Conversations About Sex Education30:36 Resourceful Parenting and Sex Education41:34 Importance of Open Communication About SexFrom conversation starters to tackling sensitive subjects like pornography and consent, Cath's knowledge will help you feel supported and ready to make these crucial conversations a natural and normal part of your child's upbringing.

Feb 19, 202443 min

Why Communities Need Creativity with Rosie Ricketson

Send us Fan MailRosie Ricketson is a mother and award-winning creative producer passionate about maternal well-being. With a background in the arts, Rosie curates community-led experiences and projects with a vision for a more connected world. In this episode, Rosie shares:🌱Her Thoughts Investing in Community During Uncertain Times🌱Creativity's Role in Building Community🌱Modern Motherhood Challenges and Needs🌱Balancing Parenting, Education, and Work SupportThis conversation served as a tapestry woven with personal anecdotes, the wisdom of voices like Maggie Dent, and the transformative ripples that stem from intentional community engagement, reminding us how vital our bonds are for growth and survival. Grab a cuppa, listen in, and let us know your thoughts xWelcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Feb 12, 20241h 8m

2023 End of Year Wrap Up

Send us Fan MailAs we close the chapter on an incredible year of growth and connection, our latest podcast episode takes you through a heartfelt journey of our key milestones, mistakes and goals for the new year.Somehow during this time, we have hit an astonishing 420,000 downloads and cultivated conversations that have deeply resonated within the realms of parenting, alternative education, forest schooling and child development. Our little project, birthed in our humble home office, has since spread its wings, touching lives and igniting a global dialogue on the transformative power of playing and learning in nature.The hustle of running a small business is nothing short of a rollercoaster, and trust us, we've had our fair share of stomach-dropping moments! From the anticipation of launching our Forest School Skills online course to navigating the choppy waters of economic uncertainty, we share our trials and triumphs. Yet, amidst the challenges, we've seen our programs soar to new heights, with over 5,600 children stepping through the doors of our Forest School sites this year alone to the simple joys of bringing on our first full-time team member. It's these victories, large and small, that chart the course for future growth and sustainability.Fasten your seatbelts as we map out the adventures and aspirations that await us in the coming year. Our heart is set on deepening the roots of our existing projects and empowering educators through our forest school skills course. We're also gearing up for personal travel escapades, including a five-week caravan journey through Tasmania! Stay wild and join us on the journey—there's so much more to explore together.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Feb 5, 202436 min

Respecting the Wild Heart of Child Development with Gill Howarth

Send us Fan MailWe're back, baby! Kicking off the 2024 season of the Raising Wildlings Podcast with our friend and fellow business owner Gill Howarth from Born Wise Education.Gill always brings her wisdom to the table and it's great to have her back for an in-depth discussion on what raising "wild and free" children truly means.Listen in as Gill shares:🌱Her experience on the delicate balance of granting our children the space to navigate their fears and the world at large. 🌱The spectrum of childhood "wildness" from mentorship to fostering autonomy. 🌱And we confront the crucial question: Are ideas of wildness and freedom more reflective of our aspirations as adults than the experiences of our children?Listen in and come away with a deepened understanding of nature play, child-centered learning, and the broader movements towards decolonising forest school education. Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Jan 30, 202430 min

Breaking Educational Boundaries with Dr. Naomi Fisher

Send us Fan MailHave you ever questioned the traditional education system and its one-size-fits-all approach? If so, this episode is a must-listen as clinical psychologist and education advocate Dr. Naomi Fisher embarks on a deep discussion about alternative pathways to learning. Dr Naomi Fisher is a clinical psychologist who specialises in autism, trauma and alternative ways to learn. She is the author of two books, both about self-directed education, and she is the mother of two children. For full show notes head to 👉https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/breaking-educational-boundaries-with-dr-naomi-fisherWelcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Dec 11, 202358 min

Honouring Land and First Nations Traditions with Tiffany Gesler from Sow & Nurtured

Send us Fan MailAre you curious about how to reconnect with your inner wisdom and that of the land, seasons, and cycles? Today we are in conversation with the wonderful Tiffany Gesler, a proud Gunggari woman passionate about connecting people to their own nature. Tiffany is a seasoned early years and outdoor learning educator with expertise in Aboriginal health, midwifery, and women's business. In this last year, she launched her wild business Sowed and Nurtured, Toowoomba's first private bush school. Join us as we delve into the process of decolonizing outdoor education, promoting First Nation perspectives, and the impact of nature play businesses on families and communities. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation that is sure to challenge, educate, and inspire!Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Dec 4, 20231h 18m

Stepping Out Of The Classroom With Leanne Webster From Wild Gully

Send us Fan MailStepping out of the mainstream education system and into the business world is equal parts daunting and exhilarating.In today's episode, we are talking with one of our founding Your Wild Business students Leanne Webster who has created a community and connection in Bundaberg QLD with her wonderful business Wild Gully.In this episode Leanne shares:🌱Her personal journey from the four walls of a classroom into the limitless expanse of the wilderness🌱The realities of running an early learning business🌱The power of personal connection when growing a customer base🌱 The importance of community collaboration when it comes to Nature Play🌱 How our signature Your Wild Business Course influenced her journeyIf you want a behind-the-scenes view into what it's like to start a Nature Play business or simply love a good story, this episode will leave you inspired and full of inspiration.Full Show Notes Can Be Found Here https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/stepping-out-of-the-classroom-with-leanne-webster-from-wild-gullyWelcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Nov 27, 202335 min

Unveiling the Truth About Natural Play Spaces

Send us Fan MailEver thought you couldn't run a Nature Play program because your site isn't postcard-worthy? Newsflash: Picturesque beaches, a bubbling creek, or a lush rainforest are pretty but they are not essential for your Nature Play program.We repeat they are not essential. Today we are discussing place-based learning and how it's actually really important that children connect with their own local environment in a deep and meaningful way.Nicki and Vicci will share:🌱The benefits of running programs in dry locations🌱The three absolute 'must have' facilities for your site🌱Why picturesque locations could attract 'the wrong crowd' for your programs🌱Practical ways you can foster deep connections at your nature play siteJoin us as we explore why a picture-perfect environment might look great in photos, but can often come with challenges that make long-term engagement difficult. Whether you're a parent, an educator, or simply interested in alternative education and parenting, tune in and we promise to shift your perspective on nature play programs.Welcome back to Raising Wildlings — where we explore raising brave, resilient, curious kids who feel at home outdoors.If you're an educator ready to bring more nature play and child-led learning into your Early Years program, our Bush Kindy Professional Development Workshops are for you. You'll walk away with practical tools, risk-benefit strategies, and the confidence to take learning outside in a way that's safe, meaningful, and genuinely exciting for You know this podcast is just a small part of what we do at Wildlings Forest School. So if you want to find out more about our range of programs for children, our professional development workshops for educators, our free downloadables, blogs or our online store, just head to wildlingsforestschool.com. It's all there waiting for you. Come and join the village.

Nov 20, 202314 min
© 2026 Raising Wildlings