The Ground Between Us

What do public lands mean to you? Land Tawney joins The Ground Between Us for a conversation about public lands, conservation, hunting, fishing, and the experiences that connect people to the outdoors. We talk about Land's conservation background, the importance of public lands, the role of grassroots engagement, and the policies that shape how these places are managed. Land also shares personal stories about how time outdoors can build character and discusses some of the challenges facing public lands, including the future of the Roadless Rule, climate change, wildfire, and forest health. Subjects covered include: • The importance of public lands for conservation and outdoor recreation • Hunting, fishing, and character development • Land's conservation background and work in conservation • Grassroots activism and public engagement • The "three D's": defund, dismantle, and divest • Public-land policy and legislation • The history and significance of the Roadless Rule • Climate change, wildfire, and forest health • Conservation funding and innovative funding mechanisms • The future of America's public lands The USDA is proposing to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which established broad restrictions on road construction, road reconstruction, and timber harvesting in inventoried roadless areas on National Forest System lands. The public comment period has been extended through October 6, 2026 . You can review the proposal and submit a public comment through the Federal Register: Roadless Area Conservation proposal and public comment page Follow The Ground Between Us: Instagram TikTok Facebook Email: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com Remember y'all, we're all standing on the same ground. Roadless Rule Public Comment

Public lands belong to all of us, but protecting them takes more than simply caring about them. It takes people willing to speak up. In this episode of The Ground Between Us , Eli talks with Adam Kramer, founding executive director and CEO of Outdoor Alliance, and Nicole Brown, Outdoor Alliance's communications and public engagement manager, about public lands, the roadless rule, and why advocacy can still make a difference. Outdoor Alliance brings together outdoor recreation communities from across the country, including climbers, mountain bikers, skiers, paddlers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Adam and Nicole explain how that coalition works and why bringing different communities together can create a stronger voice for public lands and waters. Subjects covered include: Adam and Nicole's personal paths into the outdoors How Outdoor Alliance was formed Bringing climbing, biking, skiing, paddling, and other communities together Why public lands are a public trust Public lands as places of recreation, stewardship, and democracy The recent push to sell millions of acres of public land The public response to those proposals What the Roadless Rule actually does Why roadless areas matter for habitat, recreation, clean water, and clean air The debate over roads and wildfire management The history of the Mining Law of 1872 The Legacy Restoration Fund and repairing existing infrastructure Access for people with disabilities Why public comments and contacting elected officials can matter The importance of local organizing How people can get involved in public-land advocacy The conversation ultimately comes back to a simple idea: public lands are only truly public when people participate in the decisions that shape them. These issues were not discussed in this episode. I'm including them because they are current public-land policy developments that I want listeners to be aware of and active on. Roadless Areas: The Forest Service has proposed rescinding the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule. The proposal would return more management decision-making for inventoried roadless areas to local Forest Service officials. The public comment deadline is September 21, 2026 . If roadless public lands matter to you, read the proposal and submit a thoughtful public comment. The Forest Service says timely comments will be considered in developing the final rule. Read the Roadless Area Conservation proposal and submit a comment National Forest Travel Management: The Forest Service has also proposed changes to its travel-management regulations for National Forest System lands. If you care about public access, roads, recreation, and national forest management, read the proposal and consider submitting a public comment. Read the Travel Management proposal and submit a comment These proposals are separate from the conversation with Adam and Nicole, but they're part of the larger ongoing conversation about how America's public lands are managed. Stay informed, participate in the public process, and make your voice heard. Remember y'all, we're all standing on the same ground. Current Public Land Issues

Public lands don't have to be sold to become effectively privatized. In this episode, John Leshy explains how changes in law, leasing, resource extraction, and land management can reshape who controls America's public lands, even when the land itself remains publicly owned. John Leshy joins The Ground Between Us to unpack how America's public lands were created, why they matter, and how the fight over them has evolved. Leshy is an emeritus law professor at UC Law San Francisco and former Solicitor of the U.S. Department of the Interior, bringing decades of experience in public-land law, federal policy, conservation, and land management. The conversation looks at the 2025 effort to sell millions of acres of federal land, why that proposal ultimately failed, and why Leshy believes the larger story goes beyond a traditional land sale. We explore "functional privatization," where long-term leases, statutory mandates, and changes to land-management policy can create increasingly durable private interests in publicly owned resources. Subjects covered include: The history of America's public-land system Why public lands represent shared ownership and access John Leshy's career in public-land law and federal service The Colorado Plateau, Southern Utah, Northern Arizona, and Grand Canyon The history and legacy of the Mining Act of 1872 The 2025 proposal to sell millions of acres of federal land Why the proposed land sale generated broad political opposition The concept of "functional privatization" How long-term leases can create property-like interests The role of federal agencies in managing public lands Logging, mining, leasing, and other forms of resource development Tribal stewardship and the history of America's public lands Why understanding public-land history matters when evaluating current policy How people can stay informed and participate in the public process The following issues were not discussed in this episode. I'm including them because they are current public-land policy developments that I want listeners to be aware of and active on. Roadless Areas: The Forest Service has proposed rescinding the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which provides protections for inventoried roadless areas on National Forest System lands. The public comment period closes September 21, 2026 . If you care about roadless public lands, take the time to read the proposal and submit a public comment . Your voice can become part of the official rulemaking process. Read the Roadless Area Conservation proposal and submit a comment National Forest Travel Management: The Forest Service has also proposed changes to its travel-management regulations for National Forest System lands. These rules can affect how roads, trails, motorized access, recreation, and other uses are managed on national forests. If these issues matter to you, read the proposal and consider submitting a public comment . Read the Travel Management proposal and submit a comment These proposals are separate from John's conversation, but they are part of the larger question of how America's public lands are managed. If you care about these places, stay informed, participate in the public process, and make your voice heard. Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram 📘 Facebook 🎵 TikTok Remember y'all, we're all standing on the same ground. Current Public Land Issues

What makes a fish native to one place but introduced somewhere else? And how can moving a few fish in a bait bucket have consequences that spread throughout an entire watershed? In this episode, I sit down with Cam Layne, a West Virginia fish biologist and Midwest Vice Chair of the Native Fish Coalition, to explore the incredible diversity of Appalachian fish and the complicated relationship between species, landscapes, and conservation. Cam shares how his interest in fish began in Northeast Ohio and eventually led him into a career studying and protecting native fish. We talk about why Appalachia is such an important freshwater biodiversity hotspot and how elevation, geology, and drainage divides create distinct fish communities across West Virginia. The conversation also explores what it actually means for a fish to be native. A species can be native to one watershed while being introduced in another, making geography and historical range much more important than simply looking at state boundaries. Subjects covered include: Why Appalachia and Northeast Ohio are freshwater biodiversity hotspots How geology, elevation, and watersheds shape fish communities The difference between native, introduced, wild, and stocked fish Why drainage divides matter when determining a species' native range West Virginia's unique fish species and aquatic biodiversity The history of brook trout in West Virginia How logging, canopy loss, and sedimentation changed trout habitat The importance of riparian forests, hemlocks, and red spruce Climate change and the future of brook trout How bait bucket introductions can alter entire watersheds Hybridization and the threat to rare species like the candy darter The diamond darter and other Appalachian endemic fish How waterfalls can isolate fish populations and drive speciation Using museum specimens and historical records to reconstruct lost fish ranges How genetics can help scientists distinguish closely related species The complicated role of stocked sport fish in conservation Why anglers can play an important role in protecting native fish The work of the Native Fish Coalition How learning to identify fish and other species can deepen our connection to the places around us Throughout the conversation, Cam makes a compelling case that understanding the fish in our streams means understanding the places those fish evolved in. Conservation isn't just about protecting individual species. It's about protecting the relationships between species, watersheds, and the landscapes that support them. The episode closes with a reminder that learning the natural world around us is itself a form of stewardship. The more we understand the fish, birds, plants, and ecosystems in the places we call home, the more meaningful those places become and the more invested we become in protecting them. Connect with Cam and the Native Fish Coalition Native Fish Coalition: https://nativefishcoalition.org/ Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

Public lands are more than places to hunt, fish, hike, and explore. They are shared resources that depend on people being willing to advocate for them. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Kearns, a board member of the West Virginia chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, to talk about the importance of public land, public water, habitat, and access. Matt shares how his own connection to hunting and the outdoors led him to become involved with BHA and explains the organization's work to bring outdoor communities together around conservation. We discuss the pressures facing public lands in West Virginia, the relationship between access and habitat protection, the Roadless Rule, wildlife management, and the role that state and federal policy plays in determining how these places are managed. But this conversation is also about community. From volunteer projects and local events to building coalitions among hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, Matt explains why protecting public lands requires more than simply enjoying them. It requires people who are willing to show up and advocate for the places they care about. If you value public lands and waters, this episode is an invitation to learn more, get involved, and become part of the community working to protect them. Learn more about Backcountry Hunters & Anglers 🌲 Website: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/ 📍 West Virginia Chapter: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/west_virginia Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

Some of the most important conservation work in America isn't happening in famous national parks. It's happening quietly, one property at a time. In this episode, I sit down with Turner Provost, Executive Director of Captina Conservancy, to discuss the organization's mission to protect the forests, streams, and wildlife of eastern Ohio. We explore how conservation easements help landowners preserve their property forever, why the Captina Creek watershed is such an ecological treasure, and the remarkable history found within Belmont County's old-growth forests. Turner also shares stories about ancient tulip poplars, the unique biodiversity of Captina Creek, the challenges posed by increasing development, and how local communities can play an active role in protecting the landscapes that make their region unique. If you've ever wondered how conservation happens beyond public lands, this episode offers an inspiring look at the people and partnerships working to ensure these places remain wild for future generations. Connect with Captina Conservancy 🌿 Website https://captinaconservancy.org 📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CaptinaConservancy 📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/captinaconservancy Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

The Endangered Species Act has shaped wildlife conservation in the United States for more than 50 years, helping prevent extinctions and guiding the recovery of countless species. But how did this landmark law come to be, how does it actually work, and what challenges does it face today? In this episode, I sit down with renowned conservation biologist Dr. Stanley Temple, Senior Fellow at the Aldo Leopold Foundation, to unpack the history and evolution of the Endangered Species Act. We discuss the science, ethics, and legal principles behind species protection, the role of habitat conservation, and the ongoing debate over balancing conservation with economic and political interests. Dr. Temple also shares stories from his decades-long career working with endangered species, reflects on conservation successes and setbacks, and explains why informed citizens continue to play a critical role in protecting biodiversity. If you've ever wondered how endangered species are protected or why these laws matter for the future of wildlife and public lands, this episode offers a thoughtful and accessible look at one of America's most important conservation tools. Connect with Dr. Stanley Temple 🦅 Aldo Leopold Foundation https://www.aldoleopold.org Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

Enjoy this episode of TGBTU Revisited, where we revisit some of our favorite conversations! How do you turn a passion for fly fishing into a business—and a movement? In this episode of The Ground Between Us (TGBTU), we sit down with Christa Clasgens, founder of Silver Hen Fly Co, to talk about fly fishing, guiding, and empowering women in the outdoors.Christa shares her journey from beginner to guide, and how she built a brand centered around community, education, and confidence on the water. We dive into practical fly fishing tips for beginners, the importance of public lands in Appalachia, and why more women are finding success in the sport through finesse, patience, and technique.Whether you're new to fly fishing or looking to deepen your skills, this conversation offers insight into both the technical side of fishing and the bigger picture of building a welcoming outdoor community.Learn more & connect:🌐 Silver Hen Fly Cohttps://silverhenflyco.com📸 Instagramhttps://instagram.com/silverhenflyco📘 Facebookhttps://facebook.com/silverhenflyco👍 Subscribe for more conversations about the outdoors, conservation, and the people shaping these spaces.----------------------------------------SUBJECTS COVERED INCLUDE:* Christa’s journey into fly fishing and guiding* The role of women in outdoor sports* The importance of public lands in Appalachia* Fly fishing tips and techniques for beginners* Why finesse and balance matter in fly fishing* Building a community around outdoor education* Turning a passion into a purpose-driven business----------------------------------------📩 Questions or guest inquiries:mailto:thegroundbetweenus@gmail.comFollow The Ground Between Us📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/🎵 TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@the.ground.betwee----------------------------------------#flyfishing #womenintheoutdoors #appalachia #outdoorcommunity #fishingtips

In this episode, I sit down with Georgia State Herpetologist Daniel Sullenberger to discuss the growing challenge of invasive Argentine black and white tegus and what their spread means for native wildlife. Drawing from his work with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Daniel explains how these remarkable reptiles became established in Georgia, why they're so difficult to manage, and what's being done to protect the state's ecosystems. Together, we explore the biology of tegus, their impact on native birds and reptiles, the realities of invasive species management, and the role the public can play in reporting sightings and supporting conservation efforts. Daniel also shares insights into emerging research, new technologies, and why long-term management requires collaboration between scientists, landowners, and the public. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the science of invasive species management and the people working every day to protect native wildlife. Subjects covered include: Argentine black and white tegus Invasive species biology Wildlife management Native turtle and bird conservation Georgia ecosystems Citizen science Wildlife research Conservation technology Public involvement Protecting native biodiversity Connect with Daniel Sullenberger 🐢 Georgia Department of Natural Resources https://georgiawildlife.com 🦎 Report Tegu Sightings https://georgiawildlife.com/tegus Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with Remington Bracher to discuss how Indigenous perspectives on hunting, wildlife, and land stewardship can inform the future of conservation. Drawing from his Cree heritage and professional experience in wildlife management, Remington shares how cultural traditions, community relationships, and respect for the natural world continue to shape conservation efforts today. Together, we explore the role of fire stewardship, buffalo restoration, Indigenous-led conservation initiatives, and the importance of combining traditional ecological knowledge with modern science. We also discuss mentoring the next generation, strengthening partnerships between Indigenous nations and conservation organizations, and why healthy ecosystems begin with healthy relationships between people and the land. This conversation is an invitation to see conservation through a broader lens, one that values collaboration, respect, and the wisdom carried across generations. Subjects covered include: Indigenous land stewardship Cree perspectives on hunting and wildlife Respect and reciprocity in hunting traditions Fire stewardship and ecosystem health Buffalo restoration and the Buffalo Treaty Traditional ecological knowledge Wildlife conservation partnerships Indigenous youth engagement Conservation leadership Building a shared future for wildlife and public lands Connect with Remington Bracher 💼 LinkedIn 𝕏 Twitter / X Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Shepherd of the Wildward Institute to explore why spending time outdoors is about so much more than recreation. From developing resilience and confidence to building a lifelong conservation ethic, Scott shares how meaningful experiences in nature can shape both individuals and the future of our public lands. Drawing from his work in outdoor education and conservation at the Wildward Institute, Scott explains how today's approach to connecting people with nature is evolving. We discuss the importance of curiosity over instruction, helping young people become comfortable with challenge and uncertainty, expanding access to outdoor experiences, and using technology as a tool to deepen our understanding of the natural world. Throughout the conversation, Scott offers practical insights for parents, educators, guides, and anyone who wants to inspire a lasting appreciation for the outdoors. This episode is a reminder that conservation begins with connection. The more people experience the outdoors, the more likely they are to value it, care for it, and protect it for generations to come. Subjects covered include: Outdoor education and youth development Building resilience through outdoor experiences Public lands and conservation Helping the next generation connect with nature Curiosity, exploration, and experiential learning Expanding access to the outdoors Technology's role in environmental education Using tools like iNaturalist and Merlin Bird ID Hope for the future of conservation Stewardship and protecting wild places Connect with Scott Shepherd 🌿 Wildward Institute: https://www.wildwardinstitute.net 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildwardinstitute/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-shepherd-m-ed-979815b7/ Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with Liz Crandall to explore how a passion for wilderness can grow into a lifelong commitment to conservation and public lands advocacy. Liz shares the experiences that shaped her connection to the outdoors and led her to dedicate her career to protecting public lands. From her work in Yellowstone to her advocacy for places like Dolly Sods, we discuss the importance of stewardship, the challenges facing public lands, and the responsibility we all share in preserving these landscapes for future generations. This conversation is about more than conservation policy. It's about developing a deeper relationship with the natural world, finding purpose through service, and understanding why wild places are worth fighting for. Subjects covered include: Public lands conservation and advocacy Wilderness stewardship Yellowstone and Dolly Sods Building a career in conservation Environmental education and outreach Connecting people with nature Stewardship and outdoor ethics Protecting wild places for future generations Connect with Liz Crandall 🌐 https://rangersofthelostpark.com 📸 https://www.instagram.com/rangersofthelostpark/ Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with my dad, Scott Henderson, and my pap, Marty Henderson, to revisit decades of deer camp memories, hunting traditions, and the stories that helped shape our family's connection to the outdoors. Together, we reflect on a very different era of hunting, from snowy mornings in homemade blinds and long tracking jobs through steep hollows to the unforgettable characters who made deer camp feel like a second home. Through stories spanning multiple generations, we explore how hunting culture has evolved, the lessons learned from old-school woodsmanship, and the importance of preserving the traditions that connect us to both the land and each other. More than a conversation about deer hunting, this episode is a tribute to family, friendship, and the enduring bonds forged in the woods. It's about the stories we inherit, the memories we create, and the hunting heritage that continues to shape who we are. Subjects covered include: Deer camp traditions and hunting heritage Family stories spanning multiple generations Hunting in the 1960s through the 1990s Old-school woodsmanship and deer tracking Memorable camp adventures and mishaps Hunting gear and techniques through the decades Camp characters, traditions, and storytelling The evolution of hunting culture Friendship, community, and camp life Preserving outdoor traditions for future generations Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with John Mikolajcik, creator of Public Land Advocate, to discuss the importance of America's public lands, the challenges they face, and why protecting these places matters for future generations. From hunting and fishing to hiking, camping, and wildlife conservation, public lands play a vital role in our outdoor traditions and our connection to the natural world. John shares how his passion for the outdoors led him into advocacy and why he believes conservation requires people from all backgrounds to work together. We explore current debates surrounding public land management, the Roadless Rule, wildfire prevention, traditional ecological knowledge, resource extraction, and the growing need for informed stewardship. Along the way, we discuss the value of community involvement, responsible use of natural resources, and practical ways people can help protect the places they love. Whether you're a hunter, angler, public land user, or simply someone who values wild places, this conversation offers an important look at the future of conservation and outdoor access in America. Subjects covered include: The cultural and ecological importance of public lands Hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation on public lands Public land advocacy and conservation policy Legislative threats to public lands The Roadless Rule and forest management Traditional ecological knowledge and prescribed fire Wildfire prevention and habitat management Resource extraction and land-use debates Wildlife conservation and biodiversity Native plants and ecological restoration Building support for public lands across communities Connecting future generations to the outdoors Practical ways to engage in conservation advocacy Connect with John Mikolajcik / Public Land Advocate 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publiclandadvocate/ Resources Mentioned 🎙️ Wild Origins Podcast Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-origins-could-should-hunting-come-back-to-india/id1543788045?i=1000635773062 📱 Seek App: https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app Connect with The Ground Between Us 📧 Guest inquiries: thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: ECMVUU9K35XVZRPU

In this episode, I sit down with Meg Carney, writer, environmental advocate, and creator of Outdoor Minimalist , to explore the future of public lands, conservation, and what it means to build a more sustainable relationship with the outdoors. We talk through the complexity of public land management in the United States, from policy shifts and environmental regulation to the real-world impacts these decisions have on ecosystems, wildlife, and the people who use these landscapes. Meg also shares her perspective on stewardship, outdoor ethics, and how everyday choices can shape the long-term health of our natural spaces. This conversation is ultimately about learning how to better understand the land beneath our feet—how it functions, how it changes, and how we can engage with it more thoughtfully as hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Public lands and conservation in the United States Environmental policy and regulatory change Stewardship and outdoor ethics Climate and ecosystem impacts on recreation Wildlife and habitat management Outdoor minimalism and reducing environmental impact The role of hunters, hikers, and anglers in conservation Freshwater ecosystems and land use 🌐 https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/ 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@theoutdoorminimalist 📸 https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/ 📘 https://amzn.to/4vpY5Xz 🎙️ Outdoor Minimalist Podcast 📧 thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com 📸 https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus 📘 https://www.facebook.com/thegroundbetweenus 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@thegroundbetweenus 🎵 https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Subjects covered include:Connect with Meg CarneyConnect with The Ground Between Us

In this episode of The Ground Between Us , we sit down with Christoph Meinardus to explore the foundations of native ecosystems, conservation, and habitat management . Christoph shares insights into how natural landscapes function, and what it takes to maintain or restore balance in environments that are increasingly shaped by development and land-use change. The conversation covers topics like native plants, biodiversity, invasive species, and habitat restoration , along with the broader ecological principles that connect all of these systems together. We also discuss how a deeper understanding of ecology can inform hunting, land stewardship, and wildlife management , and why protecting healthy ecosystems is essential for both wildlife and the people who depend on them. At its core, this episode is about connection—between land, wildlife, and people—and the responsibility that comes with understanding how those systems interact. Native habitats and ecosystem health Biodiversity and ecological balance Invasive species and habitat restoration Land-use change and environmental impact Native plant identification and ecology The connection between ecology, hunting, and land management Conservation and long-term ecosystem sustainability Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blazingstarhabitat/ Website: https://blazingstarhabitat.com 📩 Questions, comments, or interested in being a guest? thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com Follow The Ground Between Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus Subjects covered include:Learn more about Christoph’s work:

In this episode of The Ground Between Us , we sit down with Stephanie Tomana to discuss the environmental challenges facing West Virginia , and the growing importance of conservation, public lands, and community action. Stephanie shares insight into issues surrounding water pollution, aging infrastructure, environmental legislation, and the long-term impact these challenges have on both ecosystems and public health. The conversation also explores the cultural and economic value of public lands, the future of outdoor traditions, and the importance of protecting natural resources for future generations. From PFAS contamination and infrastructure concerns to the role of biodiversity in healthy ecosystems, this episode highlights how deeply connected environmental health is to community well-being and sustainability in Appalachia. Subjects covered include: Water pollution and infrastructure challenges in West Virginia Public lands and conservation efforts Environmental legislation and policy advocacy PFAS contamination and public health concerns Community resilience and environmental sustainability Data center development and environmental impact Hunting, fishing, and outdoor traditions in Appalachia The balance between conservation and resource management The interconnectedness of ecosystems and human responsibility 📩 Questions, comments, or interested in being a guest? thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com Follow The Ground Between Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus

In this episode of The Ground Between Us , we sit down with Jason Herbert to explore the deeper meaning behind hunting, fishing, and life in the outdoors . Jason shares his personal journey and reflects on the cultural and emotional significance of time spent in nature. From family traditions and regional identity to the role of hunters and fishermen in conservation and sustainability , the conversation offers a thoughtful look at how outdoor experiences shape who we are. We also discuss the ethics of hunting, the importance of public lands , and the idea that the pursuit goes far beyond the harvest. It’s a conversation about connection—to the land, to wildlife, and to the people and traditions that define our relationship with the outdoors. Subjects covered include: The cultural significance of hunting and fishing Ethical hunting and conservation practices The role of outdoorsmen as stewards of wildlife The importance of public lands and access Personal stories connecting family and nature The meaning behind the pursuit beyond the kill How the outdoors shapes identity and perspective Connect with Jason: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herberthistory/ 📩 Questions, comments, or interested in being a guest? thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com Follow The Ground Between Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegroundbetweenus

In this episode of The Ground Between Us , we sit down with Christa Clasgens , founder of Silver Hen Fly Co, to talk about her journey into fly fishing, guiding, and building a community for women in the outdoors . Christa shares how she got started in fly fishing, what led her to guiding, and how her passion evolved into a business focused on education, connection, and empowerment . The conversation explores the role of public lands in Appalachia , practical tips for beginner fly anglers , and why many women find success in the sport through a focus on finesse and technique . From learning the fundamentals of fly fishing to creating inclusive outdoor spaces, this episode highlights how passion can grow into something bigger—and how community plays a central role along the way. Subjects covered include: Christa’s journey into fly fishing and guiding The growing role of women in outdoor sports The importance of public lands in Appalachia Fly fishing techniques and tips for beginners The value of finesse and patience in fly fishing Building a supportive outdoor community Turning passion into a purpose-driven business To learn more, visit: silverhenflyco.com 📩 Questions, comments, or interested in being a guest? thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com Follow The Ground Between Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.ground.betwee

What does it actually take to master the outdoors? In this episode, we sit down with Craig Caudill, director of Nature Reliance School, to break down the real skills behind survival, tracking, hunting, and building a deeper connection with nature.Craig shares decades of experience teaching wilderness skills—from reading animal sign and navigating terrain to understanding conservation and the mindset required to thrive outside. Whether you’re a hunter, outdoorsman, or just someone looking to reconnect with the natural world, this conversation is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons.Subjects covered include:* Wilderness survival skills and bushcraft fundamentals* Tracking techniques and land navigation* Hunting as a skill-building discipline* Conservation and environmental stewardship* The mindset needed to thrive outdoors* Skills vs. gear vs. tactics in real-world scenarios* Why wild game is one of the most sustainable food sources----------------------------------------Check out Craig & Nature Reliance School:🌐 Website: https://www.naturereliance.org/📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/naturereliance📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/naturereliance▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/NatureReliance----------------------------------------Resources mentioned:* Nature Reliance School - https://www.naturereliance.org/ *The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life by Boyd Vardy - https://a.co/d/0bnC9TDs *Tough by Greg Everett - https://amzn.to/3O7Ac7o *The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - https://amzn.to/4mxAzoo *A Timbered Choir by Wenderll Berry - https://amzn.to/41zMKHD *How to Love a Forest by Ethan Tapper - https://amzn.to/4cc4A9J----------------------------------------Connect with TGBTU:📧 Guest inquiries: mailto:thegroundbetweenus@gmail.com📱 Socials:https://www.instagram.com/thegroundbetweenus/https://www.tiktok.com/@the.ground.betweehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585112773537