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In this episode from our archives, we explore the profound connection between humans and the natural world through the lens of place-based education, hunting, and relational awareness. Guest Joel Pontius shares his insights on cultivating respect, gratitude, and deep relationships with land and animals, emphasizing how these practices can transform our understanding and care for the Earth. When we did this interview, Joel was an educator, and we discussed in detail his thought-provoking approach to place-based education. The conversation considers how we might teach and form the young people in our lives so that they might better love and care for the planet.

Joel’s Info

Essay: Hearts Like This in Christ & Cascadia

Mentions:
Goshen College Merry Lea Environmental center & ecovillage
Goshen College sustainable farm
canoeing on the Elkhart river 
Lake Michigan
toxic forms of masculinity 

Key  Topics

  • Place-based education and its impact on ecological understanding
  • The role of hunting in developing respect and gratitude for animals
  • Practices for building relational awareness with land and creatures
  • The importance of humility and reverence in environmental stewardship
  • The intersection of science, art, and spirituality in understanding nature
  • How relational practices can foster hope and agency in climate action
  • The significance of gratitude and apology in human-nature interactions
  • The influence of childhood experiences on environmental values

Keywords

place-based education, ecology, hunting, gratitude, relational awareness, sustainability, natural history, spiritual connection, environmental education

 

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