In this inaugural episode, Matt sits down with Ash Sward (WRFI's Enrollment & Field Operations Coordinator) and Heather Upin (WRFI Instructor) for a wide-ranging conversation about geology, deep time, place-based learning, indigenous knowledge, and what it really means to teach outside. From licking rocks and translating the landscape to wondering about time and the spiritual dimensions of climate change, this conversation challenges you to consider your place in the world.

The Wild Rockies Field Institute is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Missoula, Montana. Our mission is to foster the next generation of leaders and environmental stewards through field-based education in the American West.

Head to ⁠www.WRFI.net⁠ to learn more about our mission, work, and courses.

Want to join us in the field and have conversations like these? Apply Now: https://www.wrfi.net/admissions/apply/

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The Wild Rockies Field Institute acknowledges that our headquarters is located on the aboriginal land of the Selis Qlispe (Salish). Our courses visit traditional territories of many indigenous peoples including the Ktunaxa (Kootenai); Shuswap; Siksika, Piikani, Kaiani, and Blackfeet Nation (Blackfoot Confederacy); Nakota & Aaniiih (Fort Belknap Indian Community); Tsis tsis’tas (Northern Cheyenne Nation); Apsáalooke (Crow Nation); Anishinaabe & Metis (Little Shell Chippewa); Tukudeka (Shoshone-Bannock); Hopi; Dine (Navajo); Ashiwi (Zuni); Havasu ‘Baaja (Havasupi); Hualapai; Ute; Apache; Southern Paiute; and others that we may be ignorant of.