The Enchanted World of Mushrooms and Nature play

What if the most powerful world your child will ever explore isn’t inside a screen—but just outside your door? In this magical episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, naturalist and author Susie Spikol returns to share enchanting stories, unforgettable facts, and simple, wonder-filled activities that celebrate the everyday wild. From dandelion tea and fairy rings to moss gardens and mushroom lore, Susie invites families to reclaim imagination from the grip of Big Tech and rediscover the joy of small-scale adventure. Her new book Forest Magic for Kids is a whimsical guide that blends hands-on nature exploration with folklore, creativity, and fun.

Susie and Ginny dive into why real-world imagination matters more than ever—and how we can nourish it in our children without needing expertise, expensive tools, or special destinations. You'll learn how nature not only sparks curiosity but also strengthens a child’s connection to place, family, and story. If you've ever needed proof that wonder still lives in the backyard (and that childhood doesn’t need to be fast-tracked), this episode is it. Nature delivers—and so does this conversation.

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Learn more about Susie and all she has to offer here

Get your copy of Forest Magic for Kids here

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