Walking the WILD Path: A Healing Gathering

In this episode, I chat with Farah Tanis, founder of Restore Forward. For the 2026 edition of their WILD Healing Summit, the theme is “A Harvest of Medicine”. I can’t impress upon you how beautiful this offering is, and it was right up my alley when Farah asked me to present as a speaker.

Here are the reasons that I want you to support this event:

* There are a number of amazing speakers that will presenting online, including - Dr. Mmatshilo Motsei, Iakowi:he’ne’ Oakes, Dr. Neena Van Luven, and more - then it culminates in physical presence on their sanctuary in upstate New York — a feast, a performance, and a “medicine walk”

* The language throughout leans on “walking with” rather than “attending” — suggesting a relational, participatory model rather than a passive audience experience

* The 2026 theme, “A Harvest of Medicine,” ties the event to seasonal/agricultural imagery — suggesting themes of gathering, culmination, and traditional or plant-based healing practices, consistent with the “medicine walk” element on the land

Overall, the ethos reflects: nature-rooted healing, intergenerational and communal participation, and a hybrid of digital accessibility with grounded, in-person ritual, all of the components of a more beautiful world that we know is possible.

My personal presentation is probably the best I’ve ever given. I explore the complex nature of fertility and the limitations of conventional medical approaches. I begin by discussing how modern medicine’s focus on reductive materialism misses important aspects of fertility. I outline my expanded approach to fertility workups beyond conventional reproductive endocrinology, incorporating functional medicine testing, nutritional interventions, and emotional/relational considerations. I challenge the gene-centered view of human biology, discussing epigenetics, intergenerational trauma transmission, and the possibility that water’s properties within cells could influence genetic expression. My presentation concludes with insights about the importance of embodied experience over intellectual approaches to conception and birth, drawing parallels between human fertility challenges and our disconnected relationship with nature.

The 2026 WILD Healing Summit takes place on September 9-10, 2026, online, culminating in an in-person opportunity on their land in upstate New York on September 12th. Even if you can only participate online, please go register at www.wildgala.com.

This episode was sponsored by Born Free Method.

The Born Free Method digital playground includes over 60 hrs of pre-recorded lessons (w/ slides) spread out over 180+ lessons when you enroll. You will also be invited to a Zoom call (recorded) every other week hosted by me, Sara, and both. We also often have guest speakers, and you will have access to recordings for all 100+ of our past calls/interviews. Enroll for your 7-day free trial!More ways to work with Nathan:Support for Midwives | Private Consultation | Clear & FreeMedical Disclaimer: Born Free Method: The Podcast is an educational program. No information conveyed through this podcast should be construed as medical advice. These conversations are available to the public for educational and entertainment purposes only.

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