The Nature Of with Willow Defebaugh

• Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson on The Nature Of Climate Progress and Solutions

  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. 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

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• Maggie Rogers on The Nature Of Rhythm and Creating at a Sustainable Pace

  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 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

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• Esther Perel on The Nature Of Connection and Modern Loneliness

  How can the way we cultivate relationships with one another offer insight into healing our fractured relationship with nature? In this episode, Willow is joined by renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author Esther Perel, whose work has reshaped how we understand intimacy, communication, and belonging in the modern world. They explore the intersections between human and ecological connection, and the epidemic of loneliness that so many are experiencing today. From the importance of relational intelligence to the role of desire in deepening our bonds, this episode unpacks how embracing the complexity of relationships—whether with people or the planet—can lead to greater resilience, reciprocity, and renewal.On loneliness and curiosity: https://www.estherperel.com/blog/letters-from-esther-54-curiosity-is-a-balm-for-lonelinessOn mutualism: https://atmos.earth/overview-mutualism-symbiosis-deep-ecology/On queerness in nature: https://atmos.earth/overview-nature-and-queerness-lets-talk-about-sex/On mating behaviors: https://atmos.earth/overview-relationships-mating-games/To see a transcript of this episode: https://atmos.earth/podcast/esther-perel-on-the-nature-of-connection-and-modern-loneliness-ep-1/ 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

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• A New Podcast From Atmos

  Coming Soon...A New Podcast From AtmosPodcast production by Magnificent Noise Series photography by Camila Falquez Episode photography by Arianna Lago Executive Producers: Willow Defebaugh, Theresa Perez, Jake Sargent Special thanks to Karen Gray, Jasmine Hardy, Tessa Forrest, Ásta Þrastardóttir, Jonas Woost, Kattie Laur

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