Welcome to episode 43 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Mara Mennicken, founder of The Good Chocolatier based in Vancouver, Canada. As a not so secret chocolate lover I was really excited to speak with Mara about her amazing craft chocolate business.Whilst there’s plenty of chocolate chat, this fascinating conversation delivered so much more. Mara is an absolute inspiration & doesn’t just talk the talk but is walking the walk to show that a different vision for business can & should be a reality. She is incredibly passionate about the power of social enterprises & the importance of social sustainability in business & how this is sadly often not as frequently considered as it should be. Despite being a small company she has embraced working with marginalised groups, including adapting roles & work environments to allow neurodivergent staff to thrive in her business.We talk about supply chains, human rights, changing the world closer to home, connecting to our food supply, fair prices for farmers & even some of the tools that can help us as consumers to make ethical choices for both people & the environment, including FairTrade & B-Corp.My conversation with Mara filled me with so much hope & inspiration around how business can truly be a significant force for good in our world & how as consumers we can help to shape this impact too.Learn more about MaraHi, my name is Mara. I started the GOOD Chocolatier out of a need for a true feel-good chocolate and a desire for a world where a quality product doesn't come at the cost of other people or the environment. That's why our chocolate contributes to a healthier YOU, a healthier planet, and more equity in the labour market. I hope that you feel the GOOD in every bite! :)Website:  https://thegoodchocolatier.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thegoodchocolatierLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-mennicken-24609469/Mara’s TEDex Talk: https://youtu.be/PsZ50MlXCMc?si=rpYRz8pEjxgOwe1yThe Cacao Crisis: https://thegoodchocolatier.com/news/navigating-the-cacao-crisis/New Summer Flavours: https://thegoodchocolatier.com/product/60-cardamom-latte/https://thegoodchocolatier.com/product/80-thyme-basil-lime/ Other Useful Links:B-corp: https://www.bcorporation.net/Fair Trade: https://www.fairtrade.net/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 42 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Lilli Badcock, a singer and sound reiki master based in Salisbury in the UK.During this fascinating conversation Lilli shares her love for the incredible power of singing, which she beautifully describes as the way our soul gets to speak. Her journey through her own challenges including anxiety, grief and depression, lead her to more deeply explore sound healing, which she has now combined with her background in music and song through her company Sing to Heal. We explore how sound frequency, singing and vocalisations are an important part of our bodies ability to self-sooth and help us to regulate our nervous system allowing us to cope with Life’s challenges. Utilising singing in the space of community has some added benefits for allowing us to co-regulate and process what we need to let go of. This conversation is also packed full of Lilli’s beautiful heartfelt wisdom about life; she shares how we could all benefit from letting go of our expectations about how we think life should be, whilst challenging the meaning we give to events and the stories we are choosing to tell ourselves, remembering it is a choice to be empowered, to believe in yourself and to develop awareness of where you are putting your energy and focus. Life is always going to give us challenges, we need to find the ways that allow us to thrive in spite of the challenges we face.Learn more about LilliLilli is a professional Singer, Vocal Coach and Sound Reiki Master who helps to ignite more passion, joy and purpose into the lives of busy professionals and business owners with her unique fusion of traditional singing and ancient sound healing principals.Lilli is the founder of her own company Sing To Heal Ltd and host of two podcasts, The Confidence Academy and Let’s Talk About Woo.She is passionate about getting spiritual and holistic practices into the lives of more people so they can learn to support and empower themselves as they navigate life’s challenges.Website:  https://www.singtoheal.co.ukFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/singtohealInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sing_to_healOther Useful Links:Amanda Frances: https://amandafrances.com/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 41 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Leah Rampy, author of the recently released book Earth and Soul: Reconnecting Amid Climate Chaos.In Leah I found a kindred spirit, someone who has a deep love, respect & friendship for Mother Earth & all the beings we share our world with. Her beautiful book, is a sign post to hope for all of us, that emerged as she herself grappled with the question: How do those of us who care about the Earth live in these times? How do we navigate our collective grief without being consumed & losing our way?   Leah provides a narrative of gentle remembering, of not turning away from our dear friend, Mother Earth during her suffering, but of coming together to bear witness with open hearts, to hold each other as we move through these difficult edge times, finding ways to keep going through the uncertainty, to take each step slowly as we pick up the threads to help weave a new vision for the Earth. We explore ways to hold our grief, during these times of unraveling, from seeking company to remembering to embrace Awe & Wonder, through practices like the Celtic 5 Stringed Harp & the mindset of the pilgrim in communion with the land. Leah encourages us to value these threshold times, finding sanctuary in the discernment of cultivating deep listening, as we remember that a different relationship with nature is possible. Learn more about LeahAfter giving numerous presentations on the dangers of impending climate change, Leah Rampy became convinced that something was missing from the conversations. With experience as a teacher, professor, corporate and nonprofit executive, and leadership consultant, she began a decades-long journey to understand what lies beneath our unwillingness to change our interactions with the natural world. Her growing commitment to reweaving soul and Earth has been informed by leading over a dozen pilgrimages and many more retreats, extensive reading and research, her contemplative practice, and the wisdom of the living world. Leah lives in a cohousing community in Shepherdstown, WV, with her husband David. They have two adult children.Website:  https://www.leahmoranrampy.com Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/leahrampy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahrampy/Other Useful Links:Robin Wall Kimmerer - Braiding Sweetgrass - https://www.robinwallkimmerer.com/Joanna Macy - https://www.joannamacy.net/Centre For Spirituality in Nature - https://www.centerforspiritualityinnature.org/Christine Valters Paintner - https://abbeyofthearts.com/about/about-christineSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Ricardo Sierra, who has dedicated his life to working in the wilderness skills & nature educator space.With mainstream education systems coming under increasing pressure, the systemic issues can no longer be ignored, necessity is now forcing a change of perspective, with this an awareness of the benefits for children of being part of nature and forest school education programs has been gaining momentum and credibility.  Despite our rapidly changing society and the increasing focus on technology and the skills associated with it, Ricardo strongly believes that helping children forge a foundational relationship with nature and the skills you can learn in the wilderness will always be beneficial, providing a natural advantage both during childhood and throughout our adult lives. With demands increasing on both children and educators we also touch on the rising levels of anxiety amongst children and how having these skills and a relationship with nature can be incredibly important, supporting better mental and physical health as well as providing a sense of safety and security to cope with challenging times.We discuss ways that parents and extended families can help offer these opportunities to their children, and the importance of community in sharing skills and support. In our hustle culture we are being conditioned to expect things to be easy, to find the hack, and look for the shortcut but in doing so we are focusing on outcomes without apprenticing the rewards on the path.We so often want to change the world and think that it is done in the biggest of gestures, when really it’s in the small acts of kindness that the seeds of positive change can germinate. Learn more about RicardoRicardo Sierra is the host of The Forest Educator Podcast, a wilderness skills and nature educator with over 35 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, families, educators and organizations. He is a TEDx Speaker, a conference presenter and training facilitator who works with schools and organizations to train staff and incorporate nature at all levels for students of all ages.  He is the creator of The Forest Box for Kids, a monthly nature craft subscription box that helps families and children get outside and begin building an authentic relationship to the natural world.Website: https://www.foresteducator.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_forest_educator_podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicardohawkSierraMonthly Nature Education Activities: https://www.theforestboxforkids.com/Hawk Circle Wilderness Education: https://www.hawkcircle.com/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

On this Earth Day special I'm delighted to be joined by Nick, who founded his business Wooden Journey 5 yrs ago on Earth Day. Earth Day, is an annual celebration on the 22nd April that brings together people from around the world to celebrate the Earth & share their commitments to support the environment. My conversation with Nick was the perfect way to celebrate the intention of this day. Nick is one of those beautiful, kind, compassionate & inspiring people, who’s courage, enthusiasm & passion is both infectious & impactful & I hope that hearing his story will leave you all feeling re-invigorated & empowered to know that it’s a lot easier than you think to be part of the solution, to help bring to life the vision of a better future where we return to right relationship with the earth & the positive news outweighs the bad.Nick had an experience we will all relate to, feeling a sense of profound despair due to the state of the environment, that left him with the question, what can I do? He took this question & from it sprung an amazing idea, to find a way to have an impact & that allowed others to join him on the journey. Alongside his friend, working in their spare time & on a bootstrap budget, they taught themselves to roast coffee & created several speciality roasts from Organic, Fair Trade beans. With the profits from the sales of their coffee they invest in restoring the earth, supporting tree planting organisations & other wildlife initiatives, their impact is already tangible.Nick is a wonderful example of Active Hope in action & reminds us that there is power in following your dreams, not giving up even when it feels insurmountable & never doubting  that it is possible for you to make a difference.Learn more about Nick:Nick is the founder of Wooden Journey and is a coffee roaster, specializing in Fair Trade, Organic coffee with a portion of his sales going towards both reforestation and conservation movements with the organizations that he has partnered with. Nick has a humble beginning at the start of his journey. As he started learning about all of the terrible things happening globally on the planet we all call home, he had a very empty feeling he has said he'll never forget. It all started there on his journey to make it accessible to someone to stand behind his mission and cause for people that felt the same way that may know how to help. To date, he is proud to have already planted over 35,000 trees and fully conserved 200+ acres of wildlife habitat.Website:  www.woodenjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodenjourney/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@woodenjourneyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mywoodenjourney/Other Useful Links: Earth Day: https://www.earthday.org/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by the amazing Angie, a Bowen Therapist from Adelaide, Australia. If you’ve never heard of Bowen therapy than join us to explore how it can help you “get rid of the issues in your tissues”. This gentle yet powerful modality, is suitable for all from babies to older people & even animals, has an incredible relationship in supporting the fascia in the body. Fascia is a remarkable web-like tissue that interconnects organs, muscles & more, but it is only more recently that science is starting to understand it’s importance to the functioning of our bodies & helping us to understand the true power of healing modalities like Bowen Therapy. Angie is passionate about the mind & body connection, working with the root of an issue rather than just the symptoms, she supports her practice with essential oils, understanding of meridians, muscle testing & the importance of hydration. We also explore how stress & trauma affect the nervous system & how Bowen therapy helps to give the body space to reset & feel safe, whilst also helping alleviate physical pain which can shift us back into the parasympathetic nervous system or “rest & digest”, opening up space for the releasing of stored emotions. She reminds us of the importance of caring for ourselves. She isn’t here to “fix” you but to support you  to feel empowered in remembering who you are & what you are truly capable of, a gentle reminder to simply Believe in yourself. Learn more about Angie:Angie is a passionate Bowen therapist based in Adelaide, South Australia. Bowen therapy, is a gentle yet powerful technique that stimulates the body’s innate healing mechanisms. At Balance and Energise Bowen Therapy, I integrate the use of essential oils to enhance the therapeutic experience, tapping into the profound link between emotions and physical well-being. My goal is to help individuals achieve holistic wellness by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their ailments. By incorporating Bowen therapy and essential oils into their healing journey, clients experience relief from pain and gain a deeper understanding of the emotional factors influencing their health.Website: www.balanceandenergisebowen.com.auFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BalanceAndEnergiseBowenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/balanceandenergisebowenOther Useful Links:Barbara O’ Neill - Self Heal by Design - Celtic Sea Salt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlliAiLgTooDr Gabor Maté - When the Body Says No. https://drgabormate.com/Dr Joe Dispenza - https://drjoedispenza.com/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Eugenie Kruger, a Homeopath & host of the Homeopathy Hangout Podcast from Perth, Australia. In this inspiring episode we dive into the fascinating world of homeopathy, a medical modality that has been in existence for over 200 years & is currently utilised by over 1/2 a billion people worldwide. In this fun & informative chat Eugenie shares how homeopathy helps us approach health & wellbeing in a different more empowering way; getting curious about symptoms & what they can teach us rather than simply suppressing them. We explore how science is helping explain the power of homeopathy, including how amazing people like Vada Austin, are unlocking the secret intelligence of water & the impact this has on understanding the potency of homeopathic remedies. Homeopathy offers support to the entire family, including pregnant mothers, new born babies, animals & even plants, it helps in first aid situations & chronic long-term conditions. If you’ve previously dismissed Homeopathy, please listen to this conversation with an open mind & delve into some of the incredible resources in the links below & hopefully you'll consider utilising the incredible support of homeopathy going forwards. Learn more about Eugenie Kruger: Eugenie is a Homeopath on a mission – to empower families with the knowledge of using homeopathy in their home to treat various acute & first aid situations. Homeopathic medicine is a natural, safe & effective medicine that has been used for over 200 years & used by over 500 million people worldwide. Eugenie works tirelessly to promote homeopathy through her podcast – Homeopathy Hangout – which is in the top 1.5% of podcasts worldwide https://www.eugeniekruger.com/homeopathy-hangout-podcast.  Eugenie also produces beautiful homeopathic kits and single and combination remedies which her clinic posts worldwide and can be purchased online. To learn the basics of Homeopathy in 30 minutes, check our Eugenie’s introduction video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqBUpxO4pZQ&feature=youtu.be Eugenie has a very busy clinic in Stoneville, Perth, with 6 part time staff & 5 Homeopaths on her team. Website: www.eugeniekruger.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eugeniekrugerhomeopathyOther Links:https://justonedropfilm.com/thefilm/https://magicpillsmovie.com/https://introducinghomeopathy.com/ Homeopathy Research Institute: https://www.hri-research.org/Amma Resonance Healing Foundation: https://arhf.nl/https://homeopathyforhealthinafrica.org/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Meridyth Driskill.  This is a conversation that truly everyone needs to hear, you might at first think Trauma doesn’t apply to you, but think again, this may be the piece of the puzzle we’ve all been missing. In this thought-provoking conversation, Meredith & I discuss the fascinating topic of Trauma at the intersection of the climate crisis & eco-activism; we explore nervous system regulation & the impact of fight/flight/freeze. Learning to understand this natural reflex, your body’s innate safety system, will affect not just you but also the people around you & society as a whole & has huge consequences for how effective we can be at facilitating the changes that will create a happier, healthier society where nature is truly nurtured.Meredith has so much wisdom to share, critically reminding us that what is “common” isn’t automatically “normal”. She encourages us to seek new levels of tolerance & kindness towards ourselves, replacing our harsh inner judgement with curiosity & our criticism with compassion and regularly returns to the idea that whilst it may be simple it is not always easy to embody. This was such an incredible topic that Meredith & I will be sharing another conversation very soon.Learn more about Meridyth: A card-carrying member of the trauma club turned purpose-driven healer, I discovered my life's mission through the crucible of my own pain. After a radical personal transformation, I devoted 7 years to delving into the intricacies of the subconscious mind, energy dynamics, emotions, the body-mind connection, & the profound impact of trauma.Certified in Reiki, somatics, parts work, Somatic Activated Healing™, Human Design, & trauma releasing bodywork, I've cultivated a unique approach that merges ancient wisdom with modern healing modalities. My transformative journey laid the foundation for a powerful process I share with my clients, rooted in three pillars: Safety, Connection, and Fulfillment.At the core of my practice is nervous system work; an essential compass guiding individuals toward healing. Through a blend of emotional de-repression, boundary reclamation, & fostering authentic expression, my clients experience profound shifts in their lives.I truly believe that every woman on this planet has magic & medicine to share with the world, & that the world will be a better place when we can fully own our power. When powerful women heal their wounds, I believe every human on earth can be fed, clothed, & hugged. We have the power to end generational trauma & create a new reality. Website: https://www.easywonderfullife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meridythdriskillOther Useful Links:Dr Gabor Maté - When the Body Says No.Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Elizabeth Glenn-Copeland. Having dedicated her life to exploring how eco-activism can be weaved into artistic practice in an effort to facilitate societal change. She draws on myth, indigenous wisdom & collaborations with science through a lens of current events, utilising story-telling, song & poetry to convey powerful messages that speak straight to our souls. We discuss the impact of eco-anxiety, low grade fear & complex PTSD that is affecting so many of us who are deeply connected to the environment, & how importantly we need not be blinded by the popular climate doomerism, because when we look beyond this narrative we discover millions of people around the world already doing amazing things. Elizabeth poignantly encourages us to not falter or give-up, but to remember that the story is still being written, the ending is not yet determined, that we all have the ability to engage in “Active Hope” & come together with collective strength to reframe how we vision ourselves into the world & forge new ways that nurture the earth.Learn more about ElizabethElizabeth is a writer, theatre maker & arts educator whose career over the last forty years has evolved at the intersection of arts &activism. She has long had a passion for communicating with the animate world that began in childhood high up in the arms of an old weeping willow.Fast forward sixty years. Elizabeth is offered a writing residency at the Joggins Fossil Institute, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the mighty Bay of Fundy. She jumps at the chance to connect/converse with 300 million-year-old-rock, to go to Stone as supplicant, to fully engage with sea & sand & sky & winged helpers to deepen her connection to the living world.What emerged was a narrative of the odyssey in poetic form, "Daring to Hope at the Cliff's Edge: Pangea's Dream Remembered". Music journalist, Nick Starring says of the this work: “Lyrical, bewildering, heartening, a& unsettling, this work sees an individual voice reckoning with the overwhelming complexity of our present moment.”Elizabeth lives in Hamilton, Ontario with her composer husband, Beverly Glenn-Copeland.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnlythroughartWebsite: http://www.elizabethcopeland.ca/Purchase 'Daring to Hope...': https://chapelstreeteditions.com/book-catagories/poetry/daring-to-hope-at-the-cliffs-edge/Rock Poem: https://nsadvocate.org/2021/06/26/rock-a-poem-by-elizabeth-glenn-copeland/Listen to Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s music: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnwmuje1H7edkx3vSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 34 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Meghan, a herbalist based in Yorkshire in the UK.In this inspiring conversation Meghan shares how her fascination with herbal medicine began when trying to find a solution for her own long term health issues. She reminds us that symptoms are simply messages from our body, an opportunity for us to listen and pay attention, and not something to be feared. Having studied both western herbal medicine and Ayurveda her nurturing approach to embracing herbal wisdom in your life, encourages us to trace the messages back, and what you will normally discover is one of just a handful of core imbalances that can then be addressed. We delve into the amazing benefits of utilising herbs and she reminds us that our relationship with herbs should be approached in a similar way to a relationship with other people, moving beyond simply what someone can do for us to understanding the intricate levels of their unique personality. Through it all Meghan offers the most important guidance that now more than ever we need to foster our skills of discernment to make healthier choices for both ourselves and are natural world, to which we are inextricably linked. Learn more about MeghanMeghan Rhodes is a qualified herbalist who has helped over 90 people start living herbalism, making healthier, safer solutions for themselves and their families a reality. As the founder of Rhodes Roots & Remedies, she has written 10 course books, authored the books Easy Herbal Remedies for Infants and Slow-Infused Self-Care, and developed a unique four season sense-based herbalism course and journey, Awaken Herbal Wisdom.Meghan’s practice of herbalism is rooted in the belief that we must remember, reclaim and relearn our knowledge of our bodies, our autonomy and how to work with plant medicine in order to bring control of our own health back into our families and homes for a sustainable future for ourselves and the planet.Meghan is a member of both the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy and the Ayurvedic Professionals Association.Awaken Herbal Wisdom - Meghan's intensive herbalism course - enrolling annually - Find our more and get on the waiting list here: bit.ly/3JsKIAq or DM Meghan the word ACCESS for the link.Exploring one of the seven tastes - Exclusive access - https://bit.ly/47vdbQsWebsite: https://www.rhodesrootsandremedies.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhodesrootsandremediesSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Phiomène. We discuss her passion for cultivating a more mindful & sustainable lifestyle. She shares how her journey has been inspired by her love of creativity & her insights on embracing the seasons to shape our lives, creating awareness for the wisdom they bring, including her love of slowing down & cozying up in winter. Our conversation meanders through a shared vision for supporting women & our communities to consider ways of growing in a new direction, redefining our current paradigm. From looking at where we source our food to the  wisdom the journey of homeschooling her children has given her, we consider the role of education & the space for co-creation that is available when we give value to everyone's voices. Philomène shares a gentle reminder that it’s ok: we don’t have to be perfect or do everything & in each small step we take, the seeds of the next step germinate if we have the courage to slow down & be patient with ourselves & others. Learn more about Philomène:Philomène is a passionate advocate for slow living, gracefully navigating the intricate tapestry of family, career & the pursuit of a healthy, eco-conscious lifestyle.Currently calling a quaintly renovated farm in rural Brittany home, Philomène's journey has woven through the vibrant cities of Bristol & London in the UK, the artistic landscape of Paris in France, & the eclectic charm of Berkeley in California.Drawn from profound inspiration gathered along her diverse path, Philomène is on a dedicated mission to live & consume more mindfully, actively working to minimize her environmental footprint.Committed to the philosophy of sharing knowledge & fostering support, Philomène has established a membership platform to empower women in transforming their daily lives & perspectives. Her vision is to guide members in leading lives that are not just sustainable but also joyously creative, where thriving & wholeness take center stage.When not tending her garden, doing pottery, knitting, or concocting culinary delights, Philomène dedicates her time to homeschooling her 2 children. Education, curiosity, & creativity form the core of the values she instills in her sons. She firmly believes in nurturing strong bonds with nature, hopeful that these mindful children of today will blossom into responsible nature-loving adults, committed to caring for our precious planet.Get the Beautiful Free Gift: Easy Nature-Based Activities to do with Kids Booklet: https://creativitytochangeeverything.com/easynaturebasedactivitiesWebsite: https://creativitytochangeeverything.com/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thrivingtogetherwomenscircleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativitytochangeeverything/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 32 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Claire from the Irish Forest Garden. Claire is an incredible force for nature, having been friends with Mary Reynolds, the inspirational Chelsea award winning landscape designer for many years. In 2014 Claire and her family worked with Mary to bring the Forest Garden from her book the Garden Awakening to life on a small disused 1/8 acre paddock. This was the start of their incredible journey embracing their responsibility to become true guardians of the earth, no longer fighting against nature but working in harmony to nurture all creatures both rooted and un-rooted. As both Mary, Claire and her family’s vision has evolved so too has their approach and most recently they have expanded beyond the forest garden to embrace ARKing and offering up even more land to nurturing the native flora and fauna.During this magical and laughter filled conversation, Claire takes us along on their journey from the challenges of starting at below zero in a nature depleted couch-grass filled landscape to the highs of seeing their hard work literally bare fruit and witnessing the myriad of creatures that have benefitted during their beautiful journey of co-creation with the earth. We share our mutual hopes as we acknowledge the changes that have occurred in our lifetime and how discussions around nature are seeping into the reality of more people. Claire imparts two profoundly simple but empowering pieces of wisdom for us all to embrace: Before doing something, always pause and ask Why? And Just Do It, no matter how small the action may feel, just make the decision at the start of this new year to just do something and take that first step to becoming part of the solution, you will surprised at how quickly nature steps into the spaces we make for her. Learn more about ClaireI’m Claire Leadbitter and I’m sharing about our Forest Garden and ARK designs here in Wexford, Ireland which were inspired by Mary Reynolds and her books The Garden Awakening and We Are the ARK.  Trying for a gentle, organic approach to living with the land under our care, to feed ourselves and creating as much habitat as possible for native flora and fauna.Website: www.irishforestgarden.ieInstagram: www.instagram.com/irishforestgardenOther Useful Links:Mary Reynolds - https://marymary.ie/We Are The Ark - https://wearetheark.org/Books The Garden Awakening: Designs to nurture our land and ourselves - Mary ReynoldsWe Are the ARK: Returning Our Gardens to Their True Nature Through Acts of Restorative Kindness - Mary ReynoldsSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 31 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Lucy, the founder of the medicine woman gathering and a musician based in East Devon in the UK. We are living in a time that is calling woman to reconnect with themselves and the natural world and come together through sisterhood, community and ceremony to re-establish the balance of reciprocity and communion with the land and each other. Having always felt a connection with the natural world and found inspiration from Mother Earth in her singing and song writing, Lucy shares what inspired her to create a gathering that honours the idea that we are all medicine woman. Based near Glastonbury the gathering is a place where the ancient Celtic wisdom of this sacred land weaves with modern ideas and creates space for us to move into right relationship with the earth and honour our calling as her protectors.The medicine woman gathering is now in it’s second year and will be held in July 2024 so there is still time for you to get involved.  It is a place where woman and children come together to witness each other and open a beautiful portal of energy for transformation. From the sharing of ancient skills to a concert by the voices of the wild feminine, this years event will create a powerful container to honour the collective grief of our world and offer strength to the wild woman to gently awaken and return to their roots, reconnected to their innate wisdom.   Learn more about LucyLucy Wylde, Founder of Medicine Woman has a multitude of assets that she is bringing forth to be more in service to this world. Lucy has spent the last 3 years dedicated to sisterhood, the arts and nature. Supporting women through her work to come home to themselves, fully in their sovereignty through what she has learnt through her own life workings. Growing up in East Devon, Lucy has always felt a deep connection to nature and the beauty and reciprocity that comes when we tune into our Mother Earth. Nature and the animal kingdom were Lucy’s ally’s through a traumatic upbringing. Bridging a world of modern and ancient teachings, Lucy is here to guide the way that can bring us back into balance through deep connection to ourselves, each other and all that surrounds us. Website: www.medicinewomangathering.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/Medicine.woman.gatheringWant to attend the event in 2024 use the special discount code for our listeners: NURTURE20Which will gift you 20% off their full ticket price.Find Lucy’s Music:Spotify: Lucy WyldeInstagram: www.Instagram.com/lucywyldemusicYoutube: youtube.com/lucywyldeOther Useful Links:Robin Wall Kimmerer - Braiding Sweetgrass Sharon Blackie - The Enchanted LifeSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 30 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm taking some time to offer up my gratitude to you my beautiful community and to reflect on our amazing journey a year into our Nurtured By Nature story and to remember some of the incredible wisdom that we have shared with all the amazing guests who have offered us their stories so far.Whilst reminiscing on some of my favourite moments, I’m reminded of some of the common threads that have woven their way into many of our conversations: The importance of community and what we can achieve when we come together (of course that includes not just our human world but our non-human communities too). The fact that we aren’t powerless, that as consumers we have incredible power to support those businesses that are holding nature at the centre of their business decisions, that we don’t have to wait for the legislation from governments to make the change, in fact my conversation with Jessica Brennan was a wonderful example of how the legislation often follows the change rather than proceeding it. And perhaps most importantly to embrace the power of love for healing ourselves and our world, and remembering to give ourselves and those around us the benefit of grace, knowing that most people want to help and do good, but that no-one is perfect and we are all clumsily simply doing the best we can to make the world a little better, day by day.Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

I'm delighted to be joined by Lucy the founder of Hedgewitch Essentials.  Whilst we often think about what we put in our bodies, how often do we think about the scents & smells we are exposed to? Lucy shares her passion for the science of smell, the therapeutic properties of essential oils & how this lead to the formation of her own products for both horses & humans. We also delve into the challenges of running a small business, delivering quality essential oil based products that preserve their true therapeutic properties.  We share how embracing self-selection & the use of essential oils, empowered our horses, giving us a new way to communicate & transformed our relationships, whilst also helping them resolve both emotional & physical symptoms. Having overcome some incredible challenges, not least a severe brain injury, Lucy reminds us to have hope, look for the silver lining & the opportunities that may arise. Learn more about LucyLucy always had a strong connection with the land being a farmer’s daughter. With a B.Sc. Hons in Agriculture, she began her working life as an agronomist, advising farmers on their crops & soil management. She later combined a love of writing with farming, becoming an agricultural journalist & magazine editor.Her connection with horses also began at a young age & it was the feeling of helplessness when knowing they were ‘not quite right’ – that led her to alternative therapies, & in particular animal aromatherapy – which has since become known as animal pharmacognosy. After a severe traumatic brain injury in 2017, life changed considerably for Lucy but it allowed her to follow her dreams & become an equine pharmacognosy practitioner with Caroline Ingraham. The training involved learning about the pharmacology & biochemistry of essential oils & it was this that sparked the founding of Hedgewitch Essentials Ltd, with her partner Mike.Hedgewitch recognised that the therapeutic properties of species-appropriate essential oils could be enormously beneficial to the wider population of horses. It was a tough decision because the first rule when offering essential oils to horses to self-medicate is to allow them the freedom to move away – to give them a choice. With the use of essential oils growing in horse care products, Lucy wanted to create a natural range, based on the oils horses would select themselves for certain conditions. Importantly, she wanted to make sure that these were pedantically & sustainably sourced because the quality of the oils is paramount when using them therapeutically – both for the health of the horse & to be effective. Website: https://www.hedgewitchessentials.co.ukFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hedgewitchessentials/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hedgewitchessentials/Other Links:Caroline Ingraham: https://www.carolineingraham.com/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 28 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by Lucy Ní hAodhagáin / O'Hagan the founder of Wild Awake Ireland. Lucy is quite simply one of the most kind hearted, intriguing and inspiring people I have had the pleasure to meet. During our conversation she shares her journey which is beautifully woven with her love of nature. A relationship that began from a need for sanctuary from the challenges of life and has blossomed into a life where she consciously awakens a deeper relationship with the world rooted in reciprocity, reverence and responsibility in both her own life but also the experiences of the many people she works with and guides to their own remembering. Our conversation gently meanders through her wisdom of ancestral skills, ceremonial rites of passage and wildlife tracking and the richness these threads can bring to the tapestry of life. We also hold space for the grief and pain so many of us are experiencing in this time and celebrate the importance of looking to the richness and resilience to be found in the edges, so we can move away from polarisation towards embracing the incredible diversity of voices in  our own communities and in the natural world. Lucy offers up the sacred invitation to deeply listen, and witness each others stories, to find the courage to sit with the questions and challenges of our time and dream into the new world that we believe is possible, whilst remembering to trust that most people have good intentions and truly want to do something to help. Learn more about LucyLucy Ní hAodhagáin / O'Hagan (They/She) is the founder and director of Wild Awake Ireland, a project which seeks to rekindle ancestral life ways for cultural and ecological resilience across the island of Ireland. Lucy is passionate about supporting people to re-establish connection with themselves, their communities and to nature, of which we are a part. Lucy is particularly interested in rewilding and rekindling the knowledge and skills we once knew so intimately, which connect us to place.Lucy's interests range from ethnobotany to wildlife tracking, ancestral skills to restoring rites of passage. All while leaning into the ways in which we can collectively decolonise our relationship to the land and ourselves and be in reciprocity with life. Lucy is happiest when outside, following the trails of deer across the landscape and nibbling on what nature has to offer. Website: https://www.wildawake.ie/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildawakeireland/Other Useful Links:Lynx Vilden - https://www.lynxvilden.com/John Rhyder - Wood Craft School - https://www.woodcraftschool.co.uk/Rupert Marquez - Hand On The Earth - https://www.handontheearth.org/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 27 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast. Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by the fabulous Jackie Winters of the British Academy of Crystal Healing. During this inspiring episode, Jackie shares how her own health challenges with severe Asthma, lead to her delving into the fascinating world of frequencies & how crystals are able to support the restoration of harmony in the natural frequencies of our bodies. Wisdom from a neolithic rock in the Spanish mountains leads us to consider the use of language in reconnecting with ancient wisdom & through taking in the lay of the land, we explore how lay lines, nodes & sacred sites recognised by our ancestors provide us places to reconnect to reenergise ourselves. Jackie shares surprising examples of how harnessing this energy can have profound benefits for ourselves & also in helping to heal the land, environment & our own communities.At a time when we are bombarded by negative stories about the natural world, which are inducing many heavy emotions in all of us, we discuss the importance of intention & needing awareness of the emotions we are holding & carrying into our actions, as these unintended frequencies leave their own imprint on the land & our environment. With compassion & the support of crystals we can learn to return to & hold the frequency of love in our hearts, which can allow us to be of even greater service in being the change we want to see in this world. Learn more about Jackie Winters FM BACHJackie is an FHT Accredited Course Provider and the founder of the British Academy of Crystal Healing (est. 2004). With 5-star ratings from numerous students, the academy is renowned as a leading authority in crystal healing and energy medicine. Jackie is also author of Messages from Mother Earth Divination Cards Volume 1 & 2 and has a successful free podcast that attracts regular listeners from the UK and around the world.The Academy warmly welcomes students globally, offering online tutor-led sessions. Jackie’s 40 years of research into energy medicine and crystal healing are evident in her inexhaustible knowledge. As a Shaman at heart, she provides retreats and guidance on Shamanic lifestyle, with a remarkable connection to the mineral kingdom and energy wisdom.Website: https://www.britishacademyofcrystalhealing.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britishacademyofcrystalhealing/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.britishacademyofcrystalhealing.co.ukCrystal Lightworkers Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/crystal-lightworkers-podcast-to-aid-spirituality-and/id1605621976Podcast:https://www.britishacadeSupport the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 26 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast, today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by the wonderful Helen Neave of Make it Wild.Large Landscape level Rewilding projects are gaining momentum across the UK & Europe, but Make It Wild are taking a slightly different approach, demonstrating Rewilding is possible & scalable for those with less land. Helen’s amazing journey provides those of us that care about nature with inspiration & many reasons to be hopeful. We explore how her own concern about the biodiversity crisis, lead to her family deciding they were determined to do something to make a difference. From this humble beginning an incredible ecosystem has evolved encompassing trees, meadows, wetlands & equally importantly local communities, their army of volunteers & numerous other passionate people supporting them in a multitude of ways, that has created an explosion in biodiversity. In just over 10 years, they've demonstrated how nature can bounce back, to the extent 1 of their sites has now been designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation. As a beautiful reminder that change doesn’t have to be complicated, Helen offers this simple wisdom to guide us all: “Love Nature & She’ll Love You Back”!Learn more about Helen & Make It WildHelen, a retired consultant surgeon, has always been passionate about nature. As she & her husband, Chris, learnt more about the challenges facing nature, they decided they must do their bit to help & in 2011 they bought 26 acres as a family project to ‘give back to nature’.  They planted thousands of trees, sowed wild flower seeds, dug ponds & installed habitat boxes. The resulting explosion in biodiversity was stunning and inspired the couple to set up their business ‘Make it Wild’ in 2017. With the mission statement “It’s not our aim to protect nature, it’s our purpose” the business exists to support biodiversity.  Make it Wild now looks after 9 sites in North Yorkshire, UK, totalling over 400 acres, all managed entirely for nature. They’ve planted 60,000 trees, restored wildflower meadows & wetland, protected ancient woodland, & rewilded uplands, helped by their conservation grazing team of Belted Galloway cows & Exmoor ponies. They offer a range of nature sponsorship and dedication opportunities to businesses and individuals; carbon offsetting through tree planting; woodland wellbeing activities, and an eco-friendly holiday cottage.  In February 2023 Make it Wild were awarded the Sustainability Award in the Hambleton Business Awards, and in September 2023 Helen and Chris were proud and excited to win a BBC Make a Difference Award for their work with Make it Wild.Website: www.makeitwild.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeitwildukFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/makeitwilderTikTok: @make.it.wildStay at Make It Wild in their eco-friendly holiday cottage: Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 25 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast. Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by the incredible Eleja SunStar of the Sanctuary of Sophia and a beautiful little Aminita mushroom who also had some words of wisdom to share with us all. In this inspiring episode Eleja shares her amazing journey from a workaholic in the busy world of corporate marketing and event planning, who reached a place of burnout before finally taking the leap to leave her hectic life to follow the nudges of her deep knowing that there was more to life. Since then her life has magically unfolded, through sacred pilgrimages to connect with her own ancestral roots and her shamanistic calling to connect her more deeply with her sacred relationship with nature and Mother Earth. We discuss the simple but profound experience available to all of us by finding the courage to claim what’s calling your heart and how a beautiful army of beings, equipped with their ancient nurturing wisdom in the form of plants, trees and wild creatures are patiently waiting for the opportunity to be heard so that they can guide and assist us once more. We explore the indigenous wisdom of our lands and the need for reverence in our relationships with nature and a remembering of sacred reciprocity towards Gaia. But mostly we are urged by the Fae to remember the magic that connects us all and in attuning with the earth we are being asked to bring our love and the healing sound of joy and laughter to the world at this time.Learn more about ElejaEleja is a Sophianic Medicine Woman, Divine Feminine Transformation Guide and Plant Medicine Oracle devoted to empowering rising Oracles, Priestesses, Medicine Women and Divine Feminine Leaders of the New Earth.She is the Founder and Cosmic Earth Mother of Sanctuary of Sophia, A New Earth Sisterhood. She leads ascending women on transformative journeys resurrecting their medicine & soul’s gifts, aligning them with their highest timeline through Ancient Sophianic Oracle Arts & transformational embodiment practices to support their divine mission.Website: https://sanctuaryofsophia.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanctuaryofsophia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elejasunstar/Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay

Welcome to episode 24 of the Nurtured by Nature podcast. Today I'm delighted to be joined in conversation by the amazing Jessica Brennan of Clean Product Junkie & the Clean Living Made Easy Podcast. In this informative & inspiring conversation Jessica shares some simple steps to help us make better choices for our own health & that of the planet when we buy beauty & household products. She shares with me her truly amazing journey from being a concerned mum making choices to help her young children overcome chronic disease, to recently becoming part of a panel advising legislators in America creating the new guidelines to improve product safety. She’s incredibly passionate about how powerful consumers actually are & how it is our duty & responsibility to vote with our dollars too elicit the changes we want to see. Reminding us that we truly are more powerful than we at first imagine.With a staggering 80,000 chemicals having been introduced to the marketplace since World War II & the fairly unregulated manufacturing & labelling of both home products & those for beauty & skincare, plus numerous studies showing that many ingredients can be detrimental to our health & cause damage to our environment, we both believe that empowering consumers with the education they need to allow them to make safer, healthier choices is imperative.Learn more about JessicaJessica Brennan is committed to transforming the way you think about beauty and skincare. She is a passionate advocate for health and well-being and her mission is to empower consumers to make safer, smarter choices in beauty products. With firsthand experience navigating the often misleading 'natural' labels, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge and personal understanding to the table.After discovering that even products labeled 'natural' could contain harmful ingredients linked to asthma, eczema, known carcinogens and hormone disrupters, Jessica took it upon herself to become an expert in the field & founded her company, Clean Product Junkie. Armed with research and a commitment to transparency, she aims to shed light on the murky, underregulated world of the beauty industry.Through workshops, consultations, and educational content, she focuses on demystifying ingredient lists, highlighting trustworthy brands, and celebrating legislative wins that make our products safer. Whether you're new to clean beauty or a seasoned enthusiast, Jess offers invaluable insights and practical tips to help you take control of your beauty regimen—without compromising your health. Website: www.cleanproductjunkie.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/cleanproductjunkie Home Detox 101 Free Workshop: www.Cleanproductjunkie.Com/homedetox101 Support the Show.Thank you for being part of this journey with me, please Subscribe so you don't miss our future episodes, leave a review & share with friends to help these messages ripple out across the world. More information about the Podcast & our host Fiona MacKay: Fiona Mackay Photography WebsiteConnect with us & join the conversation on social media:Instagram @FionaMacKayPhotographyFacebook @FionaMacKayPhotographyTwitter @FiMacKay