

The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast
That Sounds Fun Network
Childhood is finite at just shy of 9.5 million minutes. We only get one shot at it. One of the biggest decisions we make is how we will use that time. Research has confirmed time and time again that what children are naturally and unabashedly drawn to, unrestricted outside play, contributes extensively to every area of childhood development. The importance here cannot be understated. Every year we aim to match nature time with the average amount of American kid screen time (which is currently 1200 hours per year). Have a goal. Track your time outside. Take back childhood. Inspire others.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 9, 2025 • 56min
1KHO 545: Trying to Figure Out How to Juggle All of Life’s Plates | Tara Sun, Overbooked and Overwhelmed
In this heartfelt episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Tara Sun, author of Overbooked and Overwhelmed, shares her raw, real experience navigating the chaos of modern life. Tara's story resonates with anyone who's felt the pressure of saying "yes" to everything and how it often leads to burnout and overwhelm. She reflects on the importance of saying "no" without guilt, learning that each "yes" means saying no to something else—whether it's family time, personal rest, or sanity. Tara dives into the concept of limitations being liberating, and how the pressure to keep up with hustle culture often leaves us with little space to breathe or connect with what truly matters.
With a focus on reclaiming space for what’s important, Tara offers practical wisdom on how to slow down in a world that encourages constant busyness. From learning to rest in God’s presence to battling social media comparison, this conversation is an empowering call to reconsider how we prioritize our time. For anyone trying to juggle life’s many demands while staying grounded, this episode is for you. Tara's vulnerability and insight remind us all that we don’t have to do it all—and that sometimes, saying "no" is the most powerful choice we can make. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 8, 2025 • 52min
1KHO 544: We Have to Protect Our Children | Heather Thompson Day, Can I Sit Here?
In this powerful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, a favorite guest Heather Thompson Day returns for her second conversation, diving into the tough realities of childhood bullying and how we can protect our children from harm. Drawing from her own experiences, Heather discusses the impact of exclusion, the importance of empathy, and how the brand-new children's book she wrote with her daughter London called Can I Sit Here?, is helping kids understand and process loneliness and bullying. Heather also shares a unique practice she’s used to track God’s faithfulness, reinforcing the power of resilience and gratitude in challenging times.
This episode is a reminder that as parents, we must recognize the gravity of our children’s emotional struggles and step in to guide them. It’s about teaching them to stand up for themselves and others, while also showing them how to be the kind of friend who sees and supports others in need. Heather offers not just stories, but actionable insights that will resonate with any parent navigating the complexities of childhood today.
Get your copy of Can I Sit Here? for you and friends here
Check out Kim John Payne's book Emotionally Resilient Teens and Tweens here
A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below:
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NIV Application Bible - visit www.NIVapplicationbible.com if you’re looking to grow in your understanding of Scripture and make it real in your daily life.
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COSMO - Right now, COSMO is running an amazing back-to-school deal, plus free shipping and a risk-free 30-day guarantee. Head to www.cosmotogether.com/1KHO to grab one today.
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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 7, 2025 • 58min
1KHO 543: Our World's Beauty is Preposterous | Amanda Dykes, A Pocketful of Wonder
Bestselling novelist Amanda Dykes, known for her heartwarming tales and exploration of nature, shares her inspiring journey from English teacher to acclaimed author. She discusses the profound impact of grief on creativity and the making of her enchanting children's book, A Pocketful of Wonder. Amanda highlights the power of imagination, the importance of beauty in our lives, and how nurturing wonder in children is essential. From concrete poems to the magic of nature, this conversation encourages embracing the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us.

Aug 6, 2025 • 59min
1KHO 542: How to Be On Your Child's Side No Matter What | Dr. Tom Cowan, Commonsense Childrearing
Join Dr. Tom Cowan, a physician and advocate for common sense parenting, as he shares transformative insights from his book, 'Common Sense Child Rearing.' He emphasizes the importance of truly listening to children and challenges mainstream medical and educational norms. From navigating safety and independence to the vital role of play, Cowan advocates for a parenting approach that prioritizes childhood autonomy and critical thinking. This thought-provoking conversation will inspire parents to embrace their role as their child's fiercest ally.

Aug 5, 2025 • 59min
1KHO 541: Recess Is Not Optional, Why Our Kids Need More Than 22 Minutes to Be Human | Say Yes to Recess!
Morgan Garner, a devoted advocate for increasing playtime in schools, and Catherine Truman, a mother of four and passionate supporter of active school days, dive into the critical need for more recess. They discuss how the challenges of mental health and academic engagement in children can be traced back to reduced playtime. With just 22 minutes of recess daily, they highlight the importance of play for cognitive and social development, making a compelling case for reimagining school structures to prioritize fun and movement. Their mission emphasizes that recess is essential for learning, not a break from it.

Aug 4, 2025 • 50min
1KHO 540: Take Away the Screens and Go Outside | Mike McLeod, GrowNOW ADHD
Mike McLeod, an executive function specialist and founder of GrowNOW ADHD, dives into the screen-driven youth mental health crisis. He argues that reducing screen time is essential for developing vital skills like self-regulation and self-motivation. Mike shares insights from his upcoming book, highlighting the significance of executive functioning over grades. He discusses how parents can navigate technology, foster independence in children, and implement proactive strategies for real-life learning. This candid conversation empowers families to take action for better mental health outcomes.

9 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 54min
1KHO 539: We Need So Many More Farmers | Sean Pessara, Mindful Farmer Arkansas
Sean Pessara of Mindful Farmer Arkansas, a champion of sustainable agriculture, shares insights on transforming backyard gardens into productive spaces. He emphasizes the urgent need for more farmers embracing regenerative practices. Listeners learn about innovative techniques like high tunnels to extend growing seasons and practical tools for efficient gardening. Sean also discusses the joy of engaging families in gardening, fostering a connection with nature, and inspiring the next generation to cultivate their own food.

Jul 31, 2025 • 50min
1KHO 538: You Can Change Everything in Three Years | Janelle Anderson, The Haven Farmstead
Janelle Anderson, co-founder of The Haven Farmstead in Tennessee and host of The Farmstead Revival Podcast, shares her inspiring journey of transformation. She and her husband left a cattle ranch in North Dakota to embrace a raw land lifestyle. Janelle discusses the lessons learned from childhood, the joy of cheese-making as a form of connection, and the importance of community engagement through their dairy products. She emphasizes the power of patience in daily life and how generations can influence our paths. This conversation is a beacon for anyone considering a bold change.

Jul 30, 2025 • 57min
1KHO 537: Do You Want Healthy Kids? Take Them Outside | Miriam Eriksson and Amanda Argyle, Argyle Acres
Miriam Eriksson and Amanda Argyle, co-founders of Argyle Acres Education Foundation, share their journeys in regenerative farming and connecting kids to nature. They discuss the powerful impact of outdoor experiences on child development and well-being. The pair highlights the importance of community, soil health, and ancestral wisdom in nurturing resilience. They advocate for embracing nature—and even death—as vital lessons in life. Their personal stories inspire families to prioritize connection with the outdoors for healthier, happier lives.

Jul 29, 2025 • 57min
1KHO 536: How to Foster Creativity in a World That Wants to Control It | Austin Kleon, Steal Like an Artist
Austin Kleon, author of "Steal Like an Artist," delves into the complexities of nurturing creativity in a structured world. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and embracing an amateur spirit, encouraging listeners to let go of perfectionism and fear of failure. Kleon suggests that creativity thrives when we focus on what excites us rather than seeking validation. He offers valuable insights for parents on fostering their children's creative growth, advocating for experimentation and maintaining a sense of wonder throughout the artistic journey.