Your Place On The River - Chattahoochee Nature Center

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Latest episode

Aug 2025

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EN-US

About the show

Your Place On The River, is a podcast about The Chattahoochee Nature Center and what activities and educational programs it offers. You'll meet the people who run the center and offer you and education on nature and wildlife. www.chattnaturecenter.org

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20 recent

August 3, 202531 min

Unity Garden: Feeding the Community with Coles McLaulin

Discover how gardening grows not just plants, but connections, resilience, and community. In this episode of Your Place on the River, Melissa Carter is joined by Coles McLaulin to explore the story of the Unity Garden, a vital resource offering fresh produce to those in need while bringing people together. Delve into the healing power of nature, sustainable gardening tips, and pest management strategies, all shared with aspiring gardeners in mind. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting, you’ll find inspiration in this conversation about nurturing both the earth and the human spirit.   NOTE: Chattahoochee Nature Center does not donate 8-10 tons. They donate 8-10,000 lbs  www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 The Legacy of Gardening02:53 Unity Garden Overview and Harvests06:11 The Importance of Community and Food Distribution08:56 Gardening Techniques and Pest Management12:08 Personal Journeys and Nature's Healing15:03 Gardening Tips and Best Practices17:50 The Role of Volunteers and Community Engagement20:55 Reflections on Nature and Personal GrowthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 3, 202520 min

Transplant Tales: A Journey of Hope with David Manuel

Melissa Carter and David Manuel share their personal experiences as kidney and liver transplant recipients, discussing the emotional and physical challenges they faced. They explore the importance of organ donation, the healing power of nature, and the bonds formed through shared experiences of illness and recovery. David's journey from illness to recovery and his commitment to raising awareness about organ donation is highlighted, along with the significance of connecting with nature for emotional healing. www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 Transplant Journeys: Personal Stories of Resilience06:00 The Emotional Impact of Organ Transplants11:57 Connecting with Nature: Healing and Reflection18:01 The Gift of Life: Organ Donation AwarenessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 3, 202529 min

Sustaining Our Forests: The Hidden Value of Wood with John Mulcahy and Matt Hestad

Melissa Carter talks with John Mulcahy, Board of Trustee member of the Georgia Forestry Foundation, and Matt Hestad, Senior Vice President of the Georgia Forestry Foundation, about the importance of forestry, sustainability, and protecting natural resources. They discuss forest conservation, urbanization threats, and ways to promote stewardship and awareness. The conversation highlights innovative solutions like mass timber construction and personal connections to nature, emphasizing the value of trees in our environment. www.chattnaturecenter.org gffgrow.org Chapters 00:00 The Value of Wood in Nature02:58 Sustainability and Education in Forestry05:51 Urbanization and Its Impact on Forests08:46 Legislation and Conservation Efforts11:51 Mass Timber and Innovative Building Solutions17:48 Personal Connections to NatureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April 3, 202530 min

Understanding Vultures: Nature's Clean-Up Crew with Claire Mills

Melissa Carter speaks with Claire Mills, a wildlife technician at Chattahoochee Nature Center. They discuss the importance of connecting with nature, the fascinating behaviors of vultures, the cycle of bird reproduction, and the role of birds in inspiring children. Claire shares her journey from a law career to working with wildlife, emphasizing the healing power of nature and the importance of community involvement. The conversation highlights the need for awareness of human impact on wildlife and encourages listeners to observe and appreciate the natural world around them. www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 Connecting with Nature: The Mission of CNC03:02 Understanding Vultures: Nature's Clean-Up Crew06:12 The Role of Birds in Nature: Observations and Insights08:52 The Cycle of Bird Reproduction: Nature's Timing12:00 Inspiring the Next Generation: Kids and Nature14:45 From Law to Nature: Claire's Journey to CNC18:02 Finding Purpose: The Importance of Community and Learning21:07 Birds as a Source of Comfort: Nature's Healing Power23:51 Advice for Aspiring Birders: Starting Your Journey27:01 Human Impact on Nature: A Call for AwarenessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April 3, 202529 min

The Role of a Docent in Wildlife Education with Meryl Rivett

Meryl Rivett shares her journey as a volunteer at Chattahoochee Nature Center, discussing her lifelong love for animals and the importance of education in wildlife conservation. She explains the role of a docent, describes her daily activities at the wildlife clinic, and emphasizes the significance of observing nature. Meryl also highlights the impact of human actions on wildlife and the importance of native species, while sharing personal stories about her pets and encouraging others to connect with nature. Chapters 00:00 Meryl's Journey to Volunteering at the Nature Center02:52 Understanding the Role of a Docent06:06 A Day in the Life at the Wildlife Clinic08:55 Observing Nature and Its Lessons12:00 The Importance of Native Species15:14 The Impact of Human Actions on Wildlife18:04 Cherished Pets and Their Influence20:48 Encouraging Connection with Nature24:05 The Value of Education in Nature26:57 Final Thoughts on Volunteering and NatureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March 3, 202528 min

Healing Through Nature: The Power of Forest Bathing with Kathryn Fidati

Melissa Carter and Kathryn Fidati discuss the profound impact of isolation on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and introduces the concept of forest bathing as a therapeutic practice to reconnect with nature. She shares her personal experiences and insights on how nature can alleviate stress, anxiety, and chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences in the healing process. The discussion highlights the physiological and psychological benefits of spending time in nature and encourages listeners to embrace mindfulness and presence in their daily lives. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Isolation on Mental Health07:56 Reconnecting with Nature: The Concept of Forest Bathing16:03 Forest Bathing and Chronic Illness: A Personal Journey23:58 Community and Nature: Healing TogetherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

February 3, 202539 min

Navigating Wildlife Encounters: What You Need to Know with Kathryn Dudeck

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' host Melissa Carter speaks with Kathryn Dudeck, the Wildlife Director at Chattahoochee Nature Center, about the importance of understanding wildlife behavior and the common misconceptions people have when trying to help animals in need. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on wildlife awareness, the role of wildlife rehabilitation, and provide practical advice for safely assisting wildlife. The conversation emphasizes the need for education and professional care in wildlife interactions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wildlife Care and Education02:52 Understanding Wildlife Behavior and Human Interaction06:08 Common Misconceptions About Baby Animals09:00 The Impact of COVID-19 on Wildlife Awareness12:04 Turtle Behavior and Human Intervention14:56 Advice for Helping Wildlife Safely17:46 The Role of Wildlife Rehabilitation21:01 Common Wildlife Calls and Seasonal Trends23:54 Changes in Public Attitudes Towards Wildlife27:11 The Importance of Professional Wildlife Care30:02 Personal Stories and Lessons Learned in Wildlife Care32:50 Conclusion and Resources for Wildlife AssistanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 3, 202517 min

Nature's Playground: Rediscovering Childhood Outdoors with Sam Leaf

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' host Melissa Carter discusses the intrinsic connection between children and nature with Sam Leaf, the Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator at Chattahoochee Nature Center. They explore the importance of unstructured play in nature, the natural curiosity of children, and how to overcome fears associated with outdoor experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for mindfulness and presence in nature, as well as the role of parents in fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors in their children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nature and Childhood Memories05:18 The Importance of Unstructured Play in Nature10:11 Overcoming Fear of Nature15:27 Mindfulness and Connection to Nature16:45 Encouraging Lifelong Curiosity and LearningSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December 3, 202438 min

Nature's Bridge: The Role of a Naturalist with Alina Ruiz and Bea Hatcher

Join host Melissa Carter on this episode of 'Your Place on the River' as she chats with CNC Naturalists Alina Ruiz and Bea Hatcher, a Certified Interpretive Guide. Together, they explore how connecting children with nature can spark curiosity, build resilience, and transform lives. Discover the unique role naturalists play in fostering a deeper bond with the outdoors and how outdoor exploration programs help break down barriers to nature access. This thoughtful discussion dives into the healing power of nature and why encouraging curiosity and connection with the natural world is vital for future generations. Whether you're passionate about education, environmental stewardship, or simply love the outdoors, this episode is rich with insights and inspiration to nurture a better, greener world. Chapters 00:00 Connecting People with Nature01:00 The Role of a Naturalist05:14 Journey to Becoming a Naturalist10:13 The Impact of Nature on Children16:49 Experiencing Nature with Kids20:28 Bringing Kids to the Nature Center25:11 Understanding Our Connection to Nature30:36 Overcoming Fears of Nature35:16 Nature for All AgesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November 3, 202427 min

Helen Tapp and Rick Hirsekorn: The Power of Environmental Mediation

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' Larry and Scott chat with Helen Tapp and Rick Hirsekorn from Chattahoochee Nature Center. They discuss the importance of environmental mediation, community engagement, and the growth of the Nature Center. The conversation highlights personal journeys, the significance of listening to diverse stakeholders, and the center's commitment to sustainability and inclusion. They also explore future aspirations for the center, emphasizing the need for improved visibility and financial stability post-COVID. www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chattahoochee Nature Center01:00 The Role of Environmental Mediation05:48 Personal Journeys and Professional Backgrounds12:00 Growth and Development of the Nature Center18:10 Future Aspirations and Community Engagement23:52 Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and InclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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