The NorthBay Podcast

Welcome to the NorthBay podcast. We're excited to return with a conversation that couldn't be more important. Across Maryland, educators, conservation leaders, and community partners are working together to expand access to meaningful outdoor learning experiences for every student. Today, we're joined by Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz and Stephanie Tuckfi...

In this inspiring episode of the NorthBay Podcast, we sit down with James Obasiolu , a freshman at Harvard University who first experienced NorthBay as a sixth grader. James shares how his time at NorthBay ignited a lifelong curiosity about the environment and helped shape his path toward academic and personal growth. Join us as we explore how outdoor learning experiences can spark purpose, build...

In this episode, NorthBay founder John Erickson shares the powerful origin story behind NorthBay, from the idea for effective education tactics to birthing a transformative educational experience that has impacted thousands of lives. John reflects on the values that shaped him and how those same principles became the foundation of NorthBay’s vision : to transform lives and inspire action through o...

In this episode of the NorthBay Podcast, we explore the evolving landscape of outdoor education with two leading voices in the field: Megan Karch , President and CEO of IslandWood , and Drew Dumsch , President and CEO of The Ecology School . Together, they share how their organizations are redefining learning through immersive, place-based education that prioritizes sustainability and environmenta...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dan Prince, the Associate Director at Friends of Outdoor School. With his extensive background in outdoor education and leadership, Dan has played a key role in advocating for and supporting outdoor school programs across Oregon. We’ll dive into the measurable outcomes of these programs, explore the challenges surrounding their implementation, and discuss important...

In this episode, Rick Garber , Senior Director at NorthBay Education, sits down with Catey McClary , President and CEO of Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, for a thought-provoking conversation on expanding financial accessibility to outdoor education. Together, they explore innovative ways to ensure that all students, regardless of background, can experience the transformative power of o...

Are Outdoor Schools truly necessary in today’s education system? Join host Rick Garber, Senior Director at NorthBay Education, as he sits down with Peter Smerud, Executive Director of Wolf Ridge, one of the nation’s leading outdoor schools. With 40 years of experience in outdoor education, Peter shares insights on the benefits of learning outside the classroom, challenges common misconceptions, an...