In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills speaks with Katie Stacey and Luke Massey about their move to Asturias, Northern Spain, to live sustainably and create a nature reserve. They discuss the challenges and joys of adapting to rural life in Spain, raising their children in a natural environment, and their commitment to rewilding efforts. The couple shares insights on balancing family life with their conservation projects, the importance of outdoor exploration for children, and the role of technology in connecting with nature.

Website: https://www.wildfinca.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildfinca/

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode:

Introducing Katie and Luke (00:00:43)

Katie and Luke share their journey to Asturias, Spain, aiming for sustainable living with their children.

Motivation for Moving to Spain (00:01:08)

Katie discusses their previous travels and desire for a more nature-rich base.

Discovering Asturias (00:02:07)

Katie explains their love for Asturias and their decision to settle there after a road trip.

Adapting to Local Life (00:03:30)

Katie and Luke describe their initial experiences and friendships with local farmers upon arrival.

Background in Nature Conservation (00:04:32)

Luke shares his early interest in nature and his experiences with rewilding projects in the UK.

Community Support in Rewilding (00:05:24)

Katie highlights the local community's fascination with their rewilding efforts as a young couple.

Farming for Nature (00:06:14)

Katie explains their vision of farming for biodiversity rather than traditional farming methods.

Daily Life and Routine (00:07:35)

Katie describes their family routine, including school drop-offs and animal care responsibilities.

Children's Involvement in Nature (00:09:16)

Katie shares how their children participate in daily tasks and engage with nature.

Nurturing Children's Connection to Nature (00:11:05)

Katie discusses the innate connection children have with nature and the importance of nurturing it.

Comparing Childhood Experiences (00:11:27)

Katie reflects on her own childhood connection to nature compared to Luke's urban upbringing.

Learning from Nature Experiences (00:13:05)

Katie discusses the positive changes in her attitude towards nature from hands-on experiences.

Small Changes, Big Impact (00:15:09)

Katie emphasises that small actions can significantly enhance local wildlife and nature.

Enjoying Life in Asturias (00:16:00)

Katie shares her love for various outdoor activities and the joy they bring to her life.

Learning from Mistakes (00:16:49)

Katie and Luke reflect on challenges faced and lessons learned during their rewilding journey.

Challenges with Goats (00:17:00)

Luke recounts the difficulties they faced with goats and the lessons learned from that experience.

Pond Installation Insights (00:19:49)

Luke discusses the challenges of installing ponds and the importance of timing in the process.

Parenting and Projects (00:20:22)

Discussion on balancing parenting responsibilities with the demands of their sustainable living...

In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert and keen nature photographer. They discuss Ian's journey into nature photography, his book " My year in photos: A 365 day nature inspired photo diary," and the charitable contributions from its sales. The episode emphasises the importance of connecting with nature and the joy of capturing nature's beauty. Ian shares anecdotes about photographing wildlife and the need to balance documentation with being present.

Website: https://www.lawnmaster.co.uk/lawn-care/nottingham-lincoln/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LawnMasterNotts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LawnMasterUK

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode:

Guest Introduction (00:00:43)

Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert, is welcomed back to discuss his nature photography journey.

Book Publication Announcement (00:01:12)

Ian shares his experience of publishing his book "My Year in Photos: 365 Day Nature Inspired Photo Diary."

Charitable Contributions (00:02:00)

Discussion on profits from book sales being donated to wildlife and hospice charities.

Nature Photography and Conservation (00:02:30)

Ian highlights the connection between his photography and contributions to wildlife conservation.

Ian's Early Nature Experiences (00:03:25)

Ian reflects on his childhood experiences in nature and how they shaped his passion.

Nature Photography Challenge (00:04:01)

Ian explains how he started his nature photography challenge after a friend's suggestion.

Book Two Plans (00:05:21)

Ian reveals plans for a second book and discusses its potential release timeline.

Favourite Photo Titles (00:06:06)

Ian shares amusing titles for his nature photography, emphasizing the fun aspect.

Unique Wildlife Encounters (00:06:55)

Discussion on unusual wildlife names and encounters, including the "vomit fungus."

Using Technology for Identification (00:07:43)

Ian discusses using apps like...

In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Nicole Bateman, a SEND consultant and advocate for children's sensory needs. They delve into the importance of understanding sensory processing, especially for neurodivergent children. Nicole shares her personal journey and insights on creating resources to help children manage their sensory experiences. The discussion covers practical tips for parents, the benefits of outdoor activities, and Nicole's upcoming initiatives, including a SEND conference and new podcast season.

Nicole Bateman:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesupersensorysquad

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

Websites: https://www.thesupersensorysquad.com/

https://aboxfullofjoyuk.co.uk/

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Nicole's Background (00:01:14)

Nicole shares her journey from teaching to creating resources for children with sensory processing differences.

Creating Resources for Children (00:02:54)

Nicole discusses her businesses, "A Box Full of Joy" and "Super Sensory Squad," aimed at helping children express emotions.

Importance of Understanding Sensory Needs (00:03:18)

Rachel shares her personal experience with her daughter's sensory processing differences and the positive changes observed.

Evolving Business Focus (00:04:03)

Nicole explains how her focus has shifted towards sensory regulation and emotional needs in her businesses.

Building Resilience in Children (00:06:10)

Nicole emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for children to build resilience.

Identifying Sensory Processing Differences (00:06:55)

Nicole provides insights on how to recognise sensory processing differences in children.

Super Sensory Squad Overview (00:09:02)

Nicole describes the Super Sensory Squad programme and its benefits for children and parents.

Impact of Super Sensory Squad (00:09:47)

Rachel shares how the Super Sensory Squad has improved her family's understanding of sensory preferences.

Using Nature for Sensory Exploration (00:15:01)

Nicole discusses the benefits of outdoor activities for sensory exploration and regulation.

Evening Routines and Sensory Needs (00:17:00)

Rachel shares her family's evening routine that incorporates nature walks to help her daughter relax.

Calming Techniques for Children (00:18:44)

Nicole suggests ways to support children’s sensory needs at home by integrating their interests.

Upcoming SEND Conference (00:20:31)

Nicole announces the Adapt and Include SEND conference, aimed at supporting children's activity providers.

Future Plans for Super Sensory Squad (00:22:29)

Nicole discusses her upcoming conference and aspirations for teacher training to support neurodivergent...

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills interviews Nicola Everitt, founder of Rockpool School. Nicola, a marine biologist, shares her journey from a childhood fascination with the sea to establishing a business dedicated to marine education. She discusses the importance of connecting children with nature, the impact of climate change on marine life, and her experiences working with various age groups. Nicola also offers practical tips for rockpooling and emphasises responsible exploration. The episode highlights the significance of outdoor learning and Nicola's vision to make marine biology accessible to all, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.

Nicola Everitt:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockpoolschool

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Inspiration behind Rockpool School (00:01:00) Nicola's childhood love for the sea, her dream of becoming a marine biologist, and the lack of marine-related activities and resources during her upbringing.

Awareness of environmental issues (00:02:50) Nicola's growing awareness of environmental issues, including endangered species, climate change, and pollution, as she got older.

Early interest in marine biology (00:03:35) Nicola's early interest in marine biology, her fascination with dolphins, and the importance of getting children interested in marine life.

Activities and resources for exploring marine life (00:05:44) Recommended activities for parents and children to explore marine life, including rockpooling, beachcombing, and litter picking.

Ethical rockpooling (00:06:40) Guidelines for ethical rockpooling to avoid disrupting the environment or marine life.

Favourite marine life and facts (00:07:50) Discussion of Nicola's favourite marine life, including crabs and blue whales, and interesting facts about sea anemones.

Sessions with different age groups (00:09:00) Nicola's experiences conducting sessions with nursery kids, care home residents, and the general public, and the rewarding outcomes of these sessions.

Favourite sessions and discoveries (00:10:44) Memorable sessions and discoveries during rockpooling sessions, including finding a new species of fish and heartwarming interactions with care home residents.

Family involvement and business development (00:15:29) Involvement of Nicola's family in Rockpool School sessions and her plans for the future development of the business.

Recommended books and resources (00:13:18) Recommended books and resources for learning about British marine animals and activities related to rockpooling.

Future of Rockpool School (00:19:00) Nicola's mission to make marine life accessible to children and her hope for the next generation to appreciate and protect the marine...

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills and guest Gill Erskine, co-founder of Wild Strong, discuss the challenges of smartphone usage in families. They also share personal experiences of reducing screen time and its positive effects on their children's well-being. Gill recounts going smartphone-free during Christmas, and the benefits of outdoor activities and real-world interactions. Both express concerns over the impact of smartphones on children's mental health and social skills, and the pressures of parenting in a digital age. Gill shares her business - Wild Strong, which runs family movement clubs that focus on multigenerational movement and teaching physical literacy through outdoor play.

Gill Erskine:

Website: https://wildstrong.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearewildstrong

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildStrongCommunity

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Smartphone Free Christmas (00:00:44)

Gill's decision to go smartphone-free over Christmas and her reasons for doing so.

Engaging Without Smartphones (00:02:30)

The challenges and benefits of navigating without GPS and engaging with people for directions.

Dependency on Smartphones (00:03:25)

The increasing reliance on smartphones and the impact on daily life.

Children and Smartphone Exposure (00:06:54)

Concerns about children's exposure to smartphones, including access to inappropriate content and the influence of peer pressure.

Reducing Smartphone Dependency (00:11:11)

Strategies to reduce dependency on smartphones, including leaving work phones in the office and minimising screen time in the evenings.

Delaying Children's Access to Social Media (00:12:12)

The desire to delay children's access to social media and concerns about the impact of gaming culture on young boys.

Protecting Childhood and Children (00:18:04)

The need for collective action to pressure tech companies and governments to protect childhood and children from the negative impacts of technology.

Positive Outcomes of Smartphone-Free Time (00:21:43)

Reflecting on positive experiences and learnings from the smartphone-free Christmas.

After School Clubs (00:21:50)

Discussion about managing work and after school care, exploring the idea of a nature-based after school club for children.

Outdoor Movement and Yoga (00:24:47)

Challenges of finding movement classes for parents and children, the benefits of outdoor activities and community bonding.

Risk and Children's Play (00:27:02)

The importance of allowing children to take risks and play freely in nature, and the impact of overprotectiveness on children's mental health.

Inclusive Fitness and Movement...

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills talks with Dr. Sarah Pye about her life's journey from sailing adventures to wildlife conservation. Dr. Pye shares her experiences of living in various parts of the world and how they shaped her commitment to nature. She discusses her work with sun bears in Borneo, her children's book series "Wildlife Wong," and her educational initiatives to connect children with wildlife. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling in fostering a love for nature among the younger generation and Dr. Pye's ongoing efforts in conservation education.

Dr. Sarah Pye

Website: https://sarahrpye.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_sarahrpye

Saving Sun Bears: https://sarahrpye.com/saving-sun-bears

Wildlife Wong: https://sarahrpye.com/wildlife-wong

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Dr. Pye's Background (00:00:57) Dr. Pye shares her diverse background, from Gibraltar to sailing adventures, shaping her connection to nature.

Challenging Sailing Adventures (00:02:20) Dr. Pye recounts challenging sailing experiences, including severe weather and the positive moments at sea.

Transition to Tourism (00:04:04) Dr. Pye discusses sailing across the Atlantic, her time in the Caribbean, and the transition to the tourism industry.

Encountering Sun Bears in Borneo (00:09:34) Dr. Pye shares her experience visiting Borneo, encountering sun bears, and meeting Dr. Wong, leading to her conservation efforts.

Sun Bear Conservation (00:12:58) Dr. Pye discusses the threats to sun bears, including habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal pet trade.

Promoting "Saving Sun Bears" (00:14:54) Dr.

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills interviews Julia Bedford, a multifaceted herbalist, artist, and food activist. Julia recounts her move from London to Glastonbury to deepen her connection with nature and discusses her projects at Herbal Brue, aimed at educating people on foraging and herbalism. They reminisce about their nature-filled childhoods and how they shaped their current interests. Julia offers advice to herbalism novices and stresses the importance of community. She shares her nature journaling practices, her artistry with natural dyes, and her exploration of Somerset's herbal traditions. The episode touches on biodiversity, Remembering Remedies, a collaboration between Julia and Rosie, future projects, and the role of plants in personal growth, emphasising the significance of a grounded, plant-centric lifestyle.

Remembering Remedies is a collaboration between Julia and Rosie and for more details on how to share your stories please go to herbalbrue.org.uk

https://www.facebook.com/groups/532811655116874

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website:

https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

The background of herbalism (00:00:44) Julia's background in herbalism, foraging, and community projects.

Early memories of foraging (00:01:21) Julia's childhood experiences with plants and foraging, and her transition to foraging in Glastonbury.

Transition to herbalism (00:03:04) Julia's journey into herbalism and her desire to help people through plant-based remedies.

Starting out in herbalism (00:04:09) Tips for starting out in herbalism and foraging.

Influential resources (00:04:44) Julia's recommendations for books, films, and groups related to herbalism and foraging.

Documenting foraging and herbalism (00:06:26) Julia's methods of documenting foraging trips and herbalism, including using a receipt book and photography.

Exploring traditional practices (00:09:34) The tradition of herbalism and foraging in Somerset and the influence of local landscapes on foraging practices.

Remembering herbal remedies (00:10:39) Julia's project to collect and share herbal stories and remedies from the community.

Connecting with nature (00:13:29) Julia's thoughts on how families can connect with nature and the importance of gentle engagement.

Favourite foraging season (00:14:29) Julia's reflections on different foraging seasons and the unique beauty of each.

Observing changes in nature (00:15:29) Julia's observations of biodiversity loss and changes in the landscape over time.

Future plans and projects (00:17:37) Julia's plans for continuing her herbalism studies and mapping local medicinal...

In this episode of Curious About Nature, Rachel talks with Natalie Fée, an award-winning environmental campaigner, author, and founder of the non-profit organisation City to Sea. Natalie shares her journey from growing up with a love for nature to becoming an influential voice for environmental causes. Throughout the conversation, she discusses her passion for activism, the impact of plastic pollution on local and global levels, and her work in inspiring positive change through campaigns like Refill and Plastic Free Periods. We also delve into her tips for encouraging children and young adults to get involved in environmental activism, and her upcoming projects, including a mix of music and nature-focused endeavours. Join us as we explore the intersection of nature, creativity, and environmental responsibility with Natalie Fée.

Natalie Fée

Website: https://nataliefee.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliefee_

City to Sea

Website: https://www.citytosea.org.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citytosea/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citytosea_/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/CitytoSea_

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website:

https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and the UK's only nature prints with augmented reality.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Transition from nature lover to ocean activist. 00:00

Plastic pollution inspired action close to home. 03:46

Young activists lead successful anti-plastic campaigns. 06:50

Follow your passion and make a difference. 12:12

Complexity of plastic recycling, transparency, facility access. 15:51

Focusing on sustainability and new creative projects. 19:33

20:58 Transitioning from outward fighting to inward reflection.