In this special episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I’m honoured to bring on a guest who has had a profound impact on my life—my dad. We delve into the themes of legacy, environmental stewardship, and the importance of staying connected to the people and the land that shape who we are.

Growing up, my dad had to pave his own way without a father figure during the crucial years of his life, and his journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Together, we explore the lessons he’s learned from his diverse career paths—from managing grazing reserves to teaching, selling grass seed, and his deep commitment to holistic resource management on our family’s land.

This episode is a heartfelt tribute not just to my dad, but also to all those who’ve lost their fathers or father figures. It’s a reminder of the importance of cherishing those who support us and learning from their wisdom, whether they’re with us or not.

We also take a walk through the trees on our family property, discussing the natural life cycle of forests, the impact of wildfires, and the role of conservation in today’s rapidly changing world. My dad shares his philosophy on adapting to life’s challenges—whether in nature or in our personal lives—and offers advice for those who struggle to remain optimistic in difficult times.

In this episode, we cover:

* The influence of losing a father figure and the importance of role models.

* My dad’s journey from a farm kid to a teacher and beyond.

* The creation of tree nurseries and the significance of environmental stewardship.

* The philosophy of holistic resource management and its application on our family farm.

* The role of fire in forest ecosystems and how it relates to resilience in life.

* Practical advice for those feeling overwhelmed by global challenges.

Watch on YouTube for a guided walk through the trees and to see some of the legacy projects we discuss.

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Thank you for tuning in, and we’ll catch you on the next episode of Chasing Common Ground.