Outside Podcast

The Unexpected Benefits of Chopping Wood, with Nicole Coenen

Sep 24, 2025
Join Nicole Coenen, the internet's beloved 'lesbian lumberjill' and author of Axe in Hand, as she explores the surprising mental and emotional benefits of wood chopping. Nicole shares stories of wildlife encounters on her BC island, her accidental rise to social media fame through wholesome content, and the sense of community she fosters through her wood-crafting initiatives. She discusses the rewarding nature of chopping wood, its therapeutic qualities, and how embracing the outdoors has empowered her identity and inspired others.
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ANECDOTE

Community Wood Program

  • Nicole chops wood for a community group and sells the firewood to fund local initiatives.
  • She volunteers time and uses proceeds to support community projects one cord at a time.
INSIGHT

Repetition Creates Deep Focus

  • Nicole finds wood chopping meditative because repetitive focus syncs body, blade, and wood.
  • That attention to tiny grain details increases her appreciation for each tree's unique character.
ADVICE

Learn Your Tool Deeply

  • Study your tools to improve skill and safety; axes have deep history but need proper understanding.
  • Invest time learning how axes behave rather than chasing trendy tool upgrades.
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