#735: Craig Foster of My Octopus Teacher — How to Find the Wild in a Tame World

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May 1, 2024

Craig Foster, an Oscar-winning filmmaker and ocean explorer, shares his deep connection to the marine world. He discusses the transformative experiences of wildlife observation and the powerful bonds formed between humans and animals, including his memorable engagement with a Cape Clawless otter. Foster also reflects on his new book, 'Amphibious Soul,' emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with nature in our modern lives. He dives into practices like breath-holding and explores the impact of fame on mental health, advocating for biodiversity and conservation.

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ANECDOTE

White Stingray Encounter

Craig Foster encountered a rare, white stingray in the kelp forest.
The encounter highlighted the importance of cautious movement and respect for wildlife.

ANECDOTE

Early Ocean Immersion

As a newborn, Craig was immediately immersed in the cold Atlantic.
This family tradition demonstrates a deep connection to the ocean from birth.

ANECDOTE

The Great Dance and the San

Craig and his brother filmed the San people's sacred persistence hunting.
This immersive experience exposed them to a different way of life and highlighted their own disconnect from nature.

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The wayfinders

Wade Davis

Lion Tracker's Guide to Life

Boyd Varty

In this book, Boyd Varty merges his experiences as an African tracker and a Master Life Coach to convey profound lessons on how to live a fulfilling life. The story follows Varty and his friends tracking lions in the South African bush, highlighting strategies such as navigating without a fixed destination, staying alert, and using all senses to read the environment. These strategies are applied to everyday life, helping readers find and follow their inner tracks to discover what is deeply important to them. The book emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and listening to one's 'wild self,' which has been conditioned to be neglected in modern life.

Of Wolves and Men

Barry López

Originally published in 1978, this book delves into the intricate and varied interactions between humans and wolves over centuries. Lopez uses a wide range of sources, including personal experiences with captive and free-ranging wolves, to create a compelling portrait of the wolf. The book celebrates scientific fieldwork, dispels folklore that has demonized wolves, explains myths, and honors indigenous traditions. It explores how wolves are perceived differently by various cultures, such as scientists, Eskimo hunters, and Native Americans, and argues for the wolf's preservation. The book also examines the historical and cultural significance of wolves in human imagination and society[1][3][4].

Amphibious Soul

Finding the Wild in a Tame World

Craig Foster

In 'Amphibious Soul', Craig Foster shares his personal journey of exploring the natural world, particularly the marine life of South Africa. The book is a blend of environmental philosophy and personal introspection, where Foster recounts his experiences with creatures such as octopi, sharks, and crocodiles. He emphasizes the need to harmonize our innate wildness with our cultivated personas and urges readers to consider their place within the natural world as integral components of a larger, living tapestry. The book includes a 16-page tracking journal with full-color images and a link to a short film series by Foster.