The Dissenter cover image

The Dissenter

#899 Darcia Narvaez & Gay Bradshaw: The Evolved Nest

Feb 12, 2024
Darcia Narvaez and Gay Bradshaw discuss the importance of nurturance, community support, attachment, and reconnecting with nature in raising children and creating connected communities. They explore topics such as allomothering in African elephants, the devastating impact of government actions on Native American communities, the role of relationship and attachment in early brain development, challenging myths separating humans from other animals, and embracing localized communities and natural world.
58:14

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Evolved Nest is a developmental system shaped by evolution that optimizes normal development and meets the basic needs of young animals, emphasizing the importance of community and multiple caretakers.
  • By embracing the principles of the Evolved Nest and incorporating the wisdom of nature and traditional societies, individuals can experience interconnectedness, develop holistic well-being, and contribute to the well-being of the entire Earth community.

Deep dives

The Evolved Nest and Raising Children

The podcast episode explores the concept of the evolved nest and its significance in raising children and establishing connected communities. The evolved nest refers to the developmental system shaped by evolution that optimizes normal development and meets the basic needs of young animals, including humans. While there are species-specific differences, the book highlights the commonality of nurturing and meeting the needs of the young. The podcast features examples such as African elephants and emperor penguins to illustrate the role of community and the importance of multiple caretakers, including aloe mothers, grandmothers, and other elders. The attachment theory is also discussed, emphasizing the need for consistent and nurturing caregiving to establish secure attachments and foster well-being. Additionally, the podcast explores the detrimental effects of under-care and how it can lead to issues like anxiety, rigidity, and detachment. The hosts advocate for embracing the principles of the evolved nest, promoting inclusivity, and viewing ourselves as interconnected beings, like the animals and plants in nature.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner