The Nature Of with Willow Defebaugh

In the season finale of The Nature Of, award-winning photographer and filmmaker Ami Vitale joins Willow for a powerful and emotional conversation about witnessing extinction and choosing hope, drawing on her extensive career photographing the most critical conservation stories of our time. Ami takes Willow through her decades-long journey from documenting human conflict to the lives of endangered species—including the final days of Sudan, the last male Northern white rhino—and the people working to protect them. Together, they reflect on what it means to tell stories with reverence, how we find our humanity through connection with the more-than-human world, and why love—not loss—is at the heart of conservation.Podcast production by Magnificent NoiseSeries photography by Camila FalquezEpisode photography by Ami VitaleExecutive Producers: Willow Defebaugh, Theresa Perez, Jake SargentSpecial thanks to Karen Gray, Jasmine Hardy, Tessa Forrest, Ásta Þrastardóttir, Jonas Woost, Kattie Laur

In this episode, we explore the nature of food as a profound act of care—with the power to transform not only our health and the planet, but the very systems we live within. Maggie Baird, longtime activist, founder of Support + Feed, and mother of artists Billie Eilish and Finneas, joins Willow for a conversation rooted in compassion for humans, animals, and the Earth. From her early awakening to animal welfare to her family’s shared commitment to cultural and climate transformation, Maggie shares how plant-based food offers a hopeful path forward. Willow and Maggie discuss the myths that persist around veganism, the spiritual cost of industrial agriculture, and how joy and justice can help flavor the way we eat—for good.Podcast production by Magnificent NoiseSeries photography by Camila FalquezEpisode photography by Arianna LagoExecutive Producers: Willow Defebaugh, Theresa Perez, Jake SargentSpecial thanks to Karen Gray, Jasmine Hardy, Tessa Forrest, Ásta Þrastardóttir, Jonas Woost, Kattie Laur

Join philosopher and poet Bayo Akomolafe as he explores the idea that tumultuous times can signal new beginnings rather than endings. He invites listeners to embrace uncertainty and the 'third way'—a space beyond rigid binaries where transformation can thrive. Discover how emergence and unconventional thinking can lead to creativity and change, and reflect on the interconnectedness of our stories and experiences. Akomolafe challenges us to navigate a post-activist world with openness, highlighting the importance of community and non-traditional perspectives.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Steph Speirs, co-founder of Solstice and board member of the Sierra Club Foundation, challenges traditional notions of wealth. She argues for a shift towards defining wealth by sustainability and community well-being rather than mere accumulation. They explore how the clean energy transition can empower communities, especially in disadvantaged areas, and emphasize the importance of collective action and local initiatives. The conversation inspires listeners to consider how we can all contribute to a thriving future for both people and ecosystems.

adrienne maree brown, a writer and activist celebrated for her works like Pleasure Activism, joins the conversation to explore the alchemy of transformation. She shares her belief that small, intentional acts wield immense power for collective change. The discussion highlights transformative justice rooted in care, the importance of nurturing community, and embracing mistakes as pathways to growth. Delving into life and death, adrienne encourages viewing mortality as a transformative journey, urging each listener to step into their power as co-creators of a more just future.

Janine Benyus, a biologist and the co-founder of the Biomimicry Institute, shares her transformative vision of design inspired by nature. She passionately discusses how ecosystems can guide sustainable solutions, from resource management in forests to fish aerodynamics. Janine emphasizes the need for humanity to harmonize with nature, exploring concepts like biodiversity and mutuality. She urges listeners to mindfully integrate biomimicry into their daily decisions, revealing that nature already holds the answers to many of our challenges.

In nature, solutions are everywhere—coral reefs regenerate, forests heal, and ecosystems self-balance when given the chance. So, how can we apply that same wisdom to the climate crisis? Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist, policy expert, a Roux Distinguished Scholar at Bowdoin College, and co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab, joins Willow for an illuminating conversation about climate optimism, systemic change, and the power of solutions-driven storytelling. As the creator of the What If We Get It Right? book and podcast, Ayana offers a compelling vision of what’s possible when we shift our focus from catastrophe to collective action. Listen as they discuss the importance of local, community-based efforts, why imagination is critical in climate work, and the role we can each play in shaping a different future.To see a transcript of this episode: https://atmos.earth/podcast/dr-ayana-elizabeth-johnson-on-the-nature-of-climate-progress-and-solutions/

Nature is the ultimate artist—shaping landscapes over millennia, sculpting coastlines with waves, and composing symphonies in birdsong. In this episode, Grammy-nominated musician Maggie Rogers joins Willow for a conversation on creative rhythm, artistic sustainability, and the deep inspiration she draws from the natural world. As an artist who has intentionally crafted a career that honors both personal well-being and creative integrity, Maggie shares insights into how slowing down can actually enhance the creative process. Together, they explore the lessons nature teaches about cycles of rest and renewal, the importance of protecting one's artistic energy, and the power of making music—and life—at a pace that feels true.To find a transcript of this episode: https://atmos.earth/podcast/maggie-rogers-on-the-nature-of-rhythm-and-making-music

Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author, delves into the intricate links between human relationships and our connection to nature. She discusses the epidemic of modern loneliness and how understanding relational intelligence can heal both personal and ecological rifts. Perel critiques individualism and emphasizes the importance of community and interdependence. Furthermore, she challenges traditional views on monogamy, proposing that diverse relationships can enhance resilience and the sense of belonging we all crave.

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