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Nature-Based Director- Preschool | Homeschool | Early Childhood | Nature Play | Outdoor Education
Nature-Based Director- Preschool | Homeschool | Early Childhood | Nature Play | Outdoor Education
Ade Hofmann M.Ed- Program Founder and Director, Early Childhood Teacher, Child Advocate, Mentor and Leadership Coach to fellow program Directors. 53 episodes Nov 2, 2026
The Nature-Based Director Podcast is aimed at educators, founders, and directors who run or want to start nature- and play-based early childhood programs such as forest schools and outdoor preschools. Each episode offers practical guidance on starting a program and on the day-to-day realities of leading one, including enrollment, finances, staffing, policies, and child-led play. It also addresses the harder sides of the work: big emotions and behavior, teacher burnout, sustainable leadership, and navigating the unexpected. Host Ade Hofmann, M.Ed., founder of Nature Play All Day, draws on nearly a decade of experience in nature-based schools to combine honest conversation with encouragement for program leaders.
Episodes
EP 51: What If It Didn’t Fail? Breaking the All-or-Nothing Cycle
What If It Didn’t Fail? Breaking the All-or-Nothing CycleA simple framework for nature-based program founders and directors navigating perfectionism, control, and the pressure to get it all right.What happens when something doesn’t go the way you planned—and your brain immediately decides it was a failure?In this episode, Ade talks about all-or-nothing thinking, perfectionism, control, and the pre
EP: 50 Taking Sick Days Without Guilt: Sustainable Leadership in Nature-Based Programs
Taking Sick Days Without Guilt: Sustainable Leadership in Nature-Based ProgramsFor nature-based program founders and directors, taking a sick day isn't always as simple as calling out. When you're working with a small team, managing a tight budget, and wearing all the hats, it can feel impossible to step away—even when your body is telling you to slow down.In this episode of The Nature-B
EP 49: Trusting the Long Game of Relationship-Building
Episode 49: The Families Who Are Watching: Trusting the Long Game of Relationship-Building Not every family who connects with your nature-based program will enroll right away—and that doesn't mean the relationship wasn't meaningful. In this episode, we’re talking about the long game of enrollment, community-building, and relationship-based marketing for nature-based program founders and
EP 48: When Families Un-Enroll: How to Handle the Unexpected Without Spiraling
🎧 Episode 48: When Families Un-Enroll: How to Handle the Unexpected Without Spiraling Grace, practical strategies, and trusting God through enrollment changes.What happens when a family un-enrolls from your nature-based program—right before the school year begins or in the middle of the year?For founders and directors, unexpected enrollment changes can bring more than logistical challenges. They c
EP 47: How To Build Sustainable Leadership That Lasts
The Best Nature-Based Programs Aren't Built Around One Person How to Build Sustainable Leadership That Lasts Leading a nature-based program can feel incredibly rewarding—and incredibly lonely. As founders and directors, we often become the person everyone depends on. We answer the questions, solve the problems, carry the vision, and hold countless details together behind the scenes. But susta
EP 46: How Nature-Based Leaders Stay Grounded When the School Year Gets Busy
Don't Lose Your Philosophy in September How Nature-Based Leaders Stay Grounded When the School Year Gets Busy Every August, we begin the school year with fresh vision and renewed purpose. But by mid-September, it's easy to find ourselves swept up in schedules, paperwork, unexpected challenges, and the daily demands of leadership. In this episode, we're talking about how to
EP 45: How Nature-Based Leaders Create a Strong School Culture from Day One
The Culture You're Hoping For Won't Happen by Accident. How Nature-Based Leaders Create a Strong School Culture from Day One The first weeks of school are about so much more than establishing routines. They're about establishing culture. As nature-based founders and directors, we spend time preparing our environments, organizing materials, and planning our days. But the str
EP 44: How Nature-Based Directors Can Prepare for a New School Year
Show Notes Your Children Don't Need a Perfect Program. They Need a Present Leader. How Nature-Based Directors Can Prepare for a New School Year It's August, and if you're anything like me, your mind is already racing ahead to opening day. The supply lists. Staffing. Enrollment. Curriculum. Systems. The projects you've been hoping to finish before children arrive. Prepa
EP 43: Stop Building a Program That Depends On You
The Summer Reset Series – Episode 3 As founders and directors, it's easy to become the person who holds everything together. We answer every question. We solve every problem. We carry the vision, the logistics, the relationships, and the responsibility. While that may feel like good leadership, over time it can also become one of the biggest barriers to building a healthy, sustainabl
EP 42: What Your Program is Trying to Teach You
The Summer Reset Series – Episode 2 As nature-based educators, we spend so much of our time observing children. We watch before we intervene. We notice patterns. We stay curious. We trust that careful observation often reveals more than immediate action. But what if we led our programs the same way? In this episode of The Summer Reset Series, we're exploring a simple question that ha
EP 41: 5 Questions Every Nature-Based Director Should Ask Before Fall
Fall planning has a way of sneaking up on us. Before we know it, we're thinking about curriculum, enrollment, staffing, schedules, and all the things we want to improve for the coming year. But before you dive into another planning session, what if you paused long enough to reflect? In this episode of The Summer Reset Series, I'm sharing the five questions I return to every summ
EP 40: Before You Rush Into Fall...
Before You Rush Into Fall... One Last Summer Conversation Before We Reset As nature-based educators and program founders, it's easy to believe that every spare moment of summer should be spent planning for fall. Curriculum, enrollment, staffing, marketing, supplies—there's always one more thing to do. But what if your most important work this summer isn't creating another p
EP 39: Leading Summer Programs Without Burning Out
Episode 3: Leading Summer Programs Without Burning Out Practical Support for Nature-Based Directors and Outdoor Educators As we wrap up our Sustainable Summer Series, we're zooming out to talk about leadership. Summer has a way of revealing what's working in our programs—and what isn't. From staffing challenges and enrollment pressures to overextending ourselves in the name
EP 38: Summer Survival For Nature-Based Educators
Episode 2: Summer Survival for Nature-Based Educators Staying Regulated, Hydrated, and Human During Camp Season Summer camps and outdoor programs don't have to be packed with activities to be meaningful. In this episode, Ade shares why simple rhythms, realistic expectations, and regulated adults are often the secret ingredients to a successful summer season. If you've ever felt
EP 37: How To Avoid Summer Burnout In Outdoor Education
HOW TO AVOID SUMMER BURNOUT IN OUTDOOR EDUCATION Heat, Hydration, Boundaries, and Sustainable Summer Rhythms Summer programming is magical—but it can also be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. In this episode, Ade shares practical strategies for avoiding burnout during camp season, including hydration, nutrition, simplifying expectations, and recognizing the signs of dysregu
EP36: You Made It Through The Year... Now What?
The end of the school year often leads straight into summer planning—but if you’re a nature-based director, forest school leader, or outdoor educator, skipping reflection can lead to burnout. In this episode, Ade shares why it’s essential to pause, process, and close your program year before jumping into what’s next. You’ll walk away with simple reflection prompts and a clearer, more grou
EP 35: 5 Ways to Reignite If You're Burning Out in the Classroom
Feeling burned out in the classroom—even though you still love the work? In this episode, Ade shares five practical ways to reignite joy, connection, and creativity when teaching starts to feel heavy. From putting the phone down and stepping back into play, to taking your cohort beyond the fence line and introducing collaborative storytelling, these simple shifts can breathe fresh life in
EP 34: Hard Decisions in Nature-Based Programs: Policies, Families, and Leadership Boundaries
Running a nature- and play-based program comes with beautiful, meaningful work—but also incredibly hard, often invisible decisions. In this episode, we talk about what it really looks like to lead when things feel uncertain, emotional, and high-stakes. From questioning whether a family is the right fit mid-year, to navigating weather cancellations and running out of snow days, to holding
33. Why Play Is the Most Rigorous Standard in Education
Is play really rigorous? In this episode, Ade unpacks why play is not a break from learning—but the deepest, most demanding form of it. If you’re leading a nature- and play-based program and ever feel pressure to prove that “real learning” is happening, this conversation will reframe everything. We explore what rigor actually means, why adults struggle to trust play, and how protecting pl
EP 31: 3 Things Every Nature-Based Program Needs to Thrive
Show Notes & Links: Referenced in this episode: Episode 25: Three Steps to Launching Your Nature-Based Program from Scratch The Nature Play Blueprint: 4-Week Intensive Mentorship 1:1 Mentorship with Ade — individualized support for directors, founders, and facilitators Topics covered: Defining and refining your vision Creating systems that support your energy and growth The importance
EP 30: The Top 5 Misconceptions About Nature and Play-Based Programs (and the Truth Behind Them)
🪶 Show Notes: In this episode, we cover: The 5 biggest misconceptions about nature and play-based programs How to respond when someone says, “It’s just play” Why academics thrive outdoors (and how to show parents that) The real difference between risk and danger How to make nature-based education more accessible and inclusive Why this approach isn’t a trend—it’s a return to how children h
EP 32 How to Handle Big Emotions Outdoors (Without Losing Your Mind)
🌿 Episode Overview In today’s episode, Ade breaks down a challenge every outdoor educator faces: big emotions in big spaces. While nature is calming, children still bring their full nervous systems outside—and dysregulation can feel even louder in the woods. Ade shares simple, research-backed strategies to help you support children with confidence while also protecting your own peace. You
EP 29: How to Use Nature as Your Curriculum (Without a Script or Canned Curriculum)
In this episode, Ade shares how to use nature itself as your curriculum—without rigid lesson plans or a canned program. You’ll learn why observation is the most powerful teaching tool, how child-led learning brings academic standards to life outdoors, and why trusting the seasons can give you a ready-made structure for your outdoor classroom. From the “living, breathing, larger-than-life
Ep. 28 4 Budget-Friendly Ways to Set Up an Outdoor Classroom
Episode Summary: Think creating an outdoor classroom has to cost thousands? Think again. In this episode, I’m sharing four practical and budget-friendly ways to design essential outdoor learning spaces—without draining your wallet. From community gathering spots to mud kitchens, art areas, and climbing spaces, you’ll walk away with clear, creative ideas for how to source materials, ask fo
EP. 27 How to Talk to Parents About Risky Play—Without Apologizing
Show Notes Recap
Title: How to Talk to Parents About Risky Play—Without Apologizing
In this episode: Why you need to ground yourself before talking to families Real language you can use to describe what risky play is and how you support it How to normalize nervousness and still stand your ground Simple strategies to communicate supervision and safety Ways to build trust without overexplai
EP26: 5 Daily Rhythms That Make Outdoor Learning Flow Smoothly
Learn how to implement five simple rhythms to bring more flow, less stress, and more child-centered connection to your outdoor days. Perfect for educators feeling stuck, scattered, or just ready to create more ease in the day. In This Episode: How to structure your day without rigidity Why circle time might actually work long-term Anchoring transitions with real intention Protecting unstr
EP 25 3 Steps to Launching Your Nature-Based Program from Scratch
If you’re dreaming about starting your own nature or play-based program—but feel overwhelmed about where to begin—you’re in the right place. Today, we’re breaking it down into three essential steps: building your support circle, navigating licensing, and securing your space. Plus, we’ll talk about the heart of it all—your why. Let’s ground your vision and get you moving, one step at a tim
EP. 24 A Message For Future You
Hidden under that mountain of laundry and dishes in the sink, buried within the catacombs of your to-do list - there's a message for future you. Walk with Ade as she shares how to move through seasons of overwhelm and give action steps on how to make your daily "grind" 5-10% more enjoyable. Hint: the little things are the big things. Tune into episode 24 for more details!
EP.23 Nature & Nutrition
Nature and nutrition go together like pollinators and wildflowers. Walk with Ade as she shares her journey and discoveries in how taking a closer look at what and how she was fueling her body majorly shifted how she showed up in the space she shares with children in her forest classroom!
EP 22: A Surprising AHA Moment
In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how optimizing energy isn’t just about food and movement—but also about sleep. After working with a nutritionist in preparation for USS Nationals, I discovered that despite doing everything “right,” my sleep was the missing piece. Join me as we dive into sleep cycles, daily habits, and how aligning our personal energy affects how
EP 21: Springing Into New Beginnings
In this episode of The Outside The Box Podcast, we explore how nature’s seasonal rhythms can inspire us to rethink the traditional New Year's resolutions. Instead of setting goals in the depth of winter, we discuss why spring is the perfect time for new beginnings. Tune in to learn how aligning with nature’s cycles can bring balance, creativity, and renewal to both your personal grow
EP 20: Rest Reimagined: Taking Rest Outside
EP 19: The Journey to Something Beautiful
Welcome back to Outside the Box! I’m your host, Ade Hofmann, and in this episode, we’re diving into the deeply personal journey of creating something from scratch—whether it’s a program, a project, or a vision for your life. The process is so much more than the end result. It’s messy, emotional, and full of unexpected beauty. Join me as we unpack what it means to build something meaningfu
EP 18: The Discipline of Freedom
In this episode, The Discipline of Freedom: How Structure Sets Us Free in Nature-Based Education, we explore the transformative power of routines and rhythms in outdoor learning. Discover how intentional structure creates safety and trust, empowering children to take risks, explore, and build meaningful connections with the natural world—and with the educators who guide them. Join us as w
Ep. 18 Connection Trifecta
Join Ade in this episode as she walks with you through the three components to building a classroom community that is rotted in authentic connection, understating, trust and respect. Practicing these methods will not only positively impact your cohort at large but also expand your practice as an educator/caregiver. Love this episode? Want to dig even DEEPER? Check out Ade’s newest virtual
Ep. 17 Classroom Set Up & Nachos
Join Ade in this episode as she shares her latest tips on how to manage your classroom set up without stress or overwhelm. She will walk you through the before and after of intentionally creating spaces that have the children’s experience in mind. Download the FREE Guide to Why Play Matters here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua and shop major deals on gear at The Outdoor School
Ep. 16 Don’t let this stop you.
Join Ade as embraces vulnerability in this episode and walks through some hurtles she has faced as she creates a solid ground to build her future on. What limiting beliefs are holding you back? Don’t forget to download her Guide To Why Play Matters More here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep. 15 You Can Do Anything For A Minute
Join Ade on this episode where she explores how to build guts, grit, personal power and get an edge on hard times. Walk with her as she connects her strength journey to her practices in the world of nature and play based education. Don’t forget to download the FREE Guide to Why Play Matters More Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep. 14 To-Do Lists: How to NOT let them rule your world.
Join Ade in this episode as she shares how she tackles the never ending to-do list as an entrepreneur, and program director. She shares with you some quick and tactical guidance that you can implement today! After this episode you will no longer be haunted by your personal to-do list. Don’t forget to download the free Guide to Why Play Matters MORE Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https:
Ep. 13 MYTH or Fact: Our Children Are Falling Behind.
Join Ade as she chats about a spicy topic of how so many of us fear that our young children are falling behind in their education. Don’t forget to download the free Guide to Why Play Matters More Than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep. 12 Boots with the Fur
Choosing gear for your child (and you) is no easy feat. Listen in as Ade shares a new tip on how to choose gear that WORKS. Don’t forget to download The Ultimate Gear Guide for FREE using this link: https://mailchi.mp/1db2ee74701f/the-ultimate-gear-guide-sign-up
Ep. 11 Asking for Help
Why is asking for help SO HARD?! Walk with Ade as she shares some insight as to why asking and accepting help can feel so challenging. Tune in for a little tough love and a whole lot of “so, it’s not just me” moments. Dont forget to download her FREE Guide to Why Play Matters More here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep. 10 The Glad Game
Join Ade as she explores the notion of silver linings and why they’re so powerful in her practice of moving the needle closer to the “goal”. Unpack ideas of perfectionism and readiness. Don’t forget to download her Why Play Matters MORE guide here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep. 9 A Love-letter
Ade shares a heartfelt message for all those who are working so hard to make way for change in early childhood. She invites you to share in her efforts of change by joining a free community (NPBC). Click here for the Why Play Matters freebie: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua . Join the Nature and Play-Based Consortium for free here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TXag1VhVXrojM
EP. 8 Vital Spaces in the Outdoor Classroom
Ade shares with you her top 5 spaces to be sure to incorporate into any outdoor learning environment. She shares stories of how these spaces have a deep and lasting impact on children’s development. Don’t forget to download Ade’s FREE Guide to Why Play Matters more here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep.7 Worksheets Aren’t Working.
Walk with Ade as she debunks the great myth of the beloved worksheet. Ade shares her experience in a variety of early learning environments and how it’s helped shape her philosophy that living is learning and that above all, play and learning are synonymous. Do you need more proof for those on the fencers and naysayers? Ade’s put together a list of 10 reasons why outdoor winter play is cr
Ep. 6. Why Aren’t We Going Outside MORE?
Join Ade as she chats about what’s really keeping educators and caregivers INSIDE rather than venturing out into nature. Having trouble navigating the vast world of outdoor gear? Download The Ultimate Gear Guide, your one stop shop to knowing what you need and why here: https://mailchi.mp/1db2ee74701f/the-ultimate-gear-guide-sign-up
EP. 5 The Observation Continuum
Walk with Ade alone the Observation Continuum and learn where you are on your journey to becoming a Great Observer. Download this exercise below to practice with your staff.
Trailer 💚
Take a listen to what’s in store on Ade’s NEW podcast, launching January 2, 2024. New episodes available every Monday! Please like, comment and share the podcast, we need help from listeners like you to spread the word. 💚 Now, go on, BE AWESOME!
Ep. 4 Gear IS the Curriculum
Join Ade as she explores the idea that gear is a vital piece of that beloved curriculum that so many of us cling to. Also hear about her two exclusive freebies she has created to help you gather gear with ease and major savings. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters MORE than Kindergarten readiness HERE: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua Check out Ade’
Ep. 3 Lessons Learned
Ade shares the top three lessons she’s learned on her journey to founding a fully nature and play-based early childhood program. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters More than Kindergarten readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
Ep.2 Do it anyway!
Explore the idea of “seeing the fear and doing it anyway”. Walk with Ade as she shares her lessons learned from her first mentor, and how they apply to her work as a program founder. Download your FREE guide to Why Play Matters MORE than Kindergarten Readiness here: https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
EP. 1 Play Barriers
Becoming aware of the barriers that keep us from facilitating a truly play-based learning space. Grab your FREE Guide to why Play Matters More than Kindergarten readiness HERE! https://mailchi.mp/1e971e8a207d/9l9pim0nua
The Outside The Box Podcast (Trailer)
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