In this chat around the fireside, Atz Kilcher shares his deep connection to music, nature, and the journey of self-acceptance. Reflecting on his childhood, he explores how the wilderness shaped his understanding of himself and the world around him. Atz reveals the therapeutic power of music and how returning to nature can help veterans and others find peace, purpose, and personal growth. Weaving stories of his time in Fox Canyon at the head of the Kachemak Bay in Alaska and the art of basket weaving, he illuminates how these practices connect us to nature and the wisdom of community, healing, and shared experiences.

https://www.heroeshealinghomestead.org




November 2nd: Songs from the Wilderness [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/upcoming-events/healingheroessongsfromthewilderness]

Topa Insitute, Ojai California

On November 2nd join Atz Kilcher for an unforgettable evening in the serene beauty of the Topa Topa Mountains. Celebrate the powerful journey of veterans healing through nature and music. Featuring performances by Atz Kilcher, Andrew Wiscombe, Stephen Covell, Kate, and Secily Anderson, this concert brings the stories and songs of veterans to life in a way that inspires, uplifts, and connects us all.

All proceeds from this event will support veterans' healing trips to Heroes Healing Homestead, a place where veterans connect with nature, each other, and themselves in the magical setting of Alaska’s Kachemak Bay. Help us give back to those who have served by supporting this incredible cause. Families welcome.

More Information and Buy Tickets here [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/upcoming-events/healingheroessongsfromthewilderness]

Special Experiences:

 * 
 * Intimate concert and storytelling with Atz Kilcher under the Teaching Tree at 1pm November 2nd. Limited VIP tickets available.
 * Main Concert: Enjoy Sister Friends, Andrew Wiscombe, Steven Covell and Wintergrain - hosted by Atz Kilcher in a stunning outdoor Amphitheatre nestled in the Topa Topa Mountains, Ojai California
 * 
 * After party jam with all musicians by the Kiva fire. Limited VIP tickets available.Farmers Market: Explore local food and goodies from veteran-owned businesses from 2pm - 6pm.
 * 
 * Silent Auction launched online October 15th [https://givebutter.com/c/of2CO8/auction]: Unique handmade items from Atz Kilcher, musician memorabilia, guided adventures with Open Circle, and a chance for a trip to the Kilcher Homestead in Alaska hosted by Atz Kilcher and his family, fishing trip in the Kachemak Bay and a private concert by the fire with Atz Kilcher at Heroes Healing Homestead. Final bids Veterans Day, November 11th 2024.

E 56: Songs from the Wilderness: Atz Kilcher’s Reflections on Returning to Our Roots

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond Listening, we sit down with veteran and musician Andrew to explore his journey from the military to a powerful career in songwriting. Andrew shares his early roots in punk rock and country music, how music helped him cope with the aftermath of his military service, and the transformative experiences he’s had through the Heroes Healing Homestead initiative, co-hosted by Atz Kilcher and Operation Encore.

Andrew opens up about his time in the military, his struggle with PTSD, and how songwriting became an essential outlet for processing the trauma. He also discusses a profound revelation he had during a trip to the Heroes Healing Homestead in Alaska, a healing retreat for veterans. Andrew describes how this experience unlocked deep memories, leading him to confront past trauma and begin a journey of healing.

Through raw honesty, Andrew talks about the challenges of balancing a sensitive heart in a military environment, shedding the tough exterior, and reconnecting with his true self through music and nature. We also get a special treat as Andrew performs two of his songs, including the emotional "Alone with You" and the poignant "Working Man’s Mile," both of which speak to themes of resilience, authenticity, and finding peace in unexpected places.

We wrap up with a look ahead to the upcoming *Healing Heroes: Songs from the Wilderness* concert in Ojai, California, featuring Andrew, Atz Kilcher, and other talented musicians. Join us as we explore how nature, community, and music can create powerful healing experiences for veterans and beyond.

Show notes:

Andrew Wiscombe website [https://www.andrewwiscombe.com/]

Learn more about the event: Healing Heroes: Songs from the Wilderness [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/upcoming-events/healingheroessongsfromthewilderness]

Donate to the work of HHH and Open Circle Foundation  [https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=6DQ2JGJN45WXA]

Learn more about Heroes Healing Homestead [https://www.heroeshealinghomestead.org/]

Learn more about Open Circle Foundation [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/]

Learn more about Operation Encore [https://operationencore.org/]


E 55: Songs from the Wilderness: Nature, Music, and the Heart of a Veteran: A deep dive with Andrew Wiscombe

In this episode, Adam and Miriam, co founders of Open Circle, dive deep into the complexities of guiding change, offering practical insights into both horizontal and vertical transformations. They emphasize the critical need for understanding and accepting change, while also exploring the common resistance humans face, often rooted in our fear of loss.



Throughout the conversation, they address the challenges individuals and organizations encounter when guiding change, from managing resistance to recognizing what is truly essential. Adam and Miriam reflect on how our evolutionary attachment to status and identity can make embracing change difficult, sometimes leading to anxiety, depression, or a lack of meaning.



Key Takeaways:

 * Change is constant, and learning to navigate it is crucial.

 * There are two types of change: horizontal (superficial) and vertical (deep, fundamental).

 * Resistance to change, rooted in fear of loss, can block growth and lead to anxiety and depression.

 * Nature teaches valuable lessons on cycles of life and interdependence, providing perspective on change.

 * Vulnerability and listening are key skills for effectively guiding others through transformation.

 * Leaders must reflect on their own biases and be open to learning from others.
   
   Links
   
   Vertical and Horizontal Change: article by Adam Ruumack [https://www.weareopencircle.com/post/beyond-window-dressing]
   
   Open Circle Training: Guiding Change (October 2024) [https://weareopencircle.thinkific.com/courses/guiding-change-part-one]
   
   Research Report: Positive Effects of time spent in nature [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dNxeyST3FoK4GnBFBBbqODZXmovriVc6jEhdWwa5KRM/edit?usp=sharing]
   
   Research Report: Positive effect of Listening Circle and Mindfulness [https://docs.google.com/document/d/10l5wpa6I03DuqrWUhic09DARUZmGQ8q3JBNxrETcQBA/edit?usp=sharing]

E 54: Navigating the Unknown: The Art of Guiding Change with Adam and Miriam

Kiersten McCartney, “Coach K”, the program director and co-founder of Arena Adaptive, shares her journey and passion for engaging people with disabilities in exercise, fitness, and sport. She discusses the origins of her passion and the intentional community-building approach she takes in her work.

 The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to adaptive fitness, healthcare challenges for people with disabilities, and the importance of inclusion and understanding. Coach K shares insights on her work, the impact of her programs, and the need for greater awareness and support for individuals with disabilities. 

We also delve into the significance of treating people with disabilities as individuals and the value of adaptive sports. Coach K shares her experiences in creating inclusive fitness programs and starting an amputee soccer team.


Links:

More Than Fitness [https://morethanfitness.org/]

Arena Adaptive Promotional Video [https://vimeo.com/919887493]

So Everybody Can Move website [https://soeverybodycanmove.org/]

Open Circle Foundation [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/]

Get in contact with Coach K and Arena Adaptive:

 * Website [https://www.runyourdays.com/⁠]

 * Instagram: @runyourdays @kmmacc17 @arena.adaptive Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiersten-mccartney-pt-dpt-02895a56/]

E 53: Breaking Barriers: Adaptive Fitness and Resilient Community Spirit with Kiersten McCartney

In our latest episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of nature and its profound effects on the brain with Amy McDonnell, a research fellow at the University of Utah Applied Cognition Lab.

Meet Our Guest: Amy McDonnell

Amy McDonnell brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her background in neuroscience and environmental psychology. Her research at the University of Utah Applied Cognition Lab focuses on the intersection of wilderness therapy, neuroscience, and environmental neuroscience. Amy's quest to identify biomarkers and neural signatures of the nature experience is groundbreaking, providing valuable insights into how nature impacts our brain and overall well-being.



In this episode, we cover... 

 1. Environmental Neuroscience: This emerging field examines how different environments, particularly natural ones, influence brain activity and stress physiology. Amy delves into the importance of understanding these impacts to develop effective therapeutic interventions.

 2. Biomarkers and Neural Signatures: The quest for identifying specific biomarkers and neural signatures associated with nature experiences is central to Amy's research. These findings could revolutionize how we approach mental health treatment and rehabilitation.

 3. Spiritual and Mystical Aspects of Nature: Beyond the scientific, Amy explores the spiritual and mystical aspects of nature, discussing how these experiences can profoundly affect our psyche and emotional health.

 4. Virtual Reality (VR) Nature: For individuals who cannot access nature due to various constraints, VR nature simulations offer a promising alternative. Amy talks about the potential of VR to replicate the multi-sensory experiences of nature and its applications in healthcare.

 5. Challenges of Reintegration: After immersive nature experiences, reintegrating into urban environments can be challenging. Amy emphasizes the need for follow-through support to help individuals maintain the benefits gained from nature therapy.

 6. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Amy highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in nature and health research.

Show Notes

 * Open Circle Foundation: Link [https://foundation.weareopencircle.com/]

 * Nature and Human Health Washington: Link [https://naturehumanhealth.org/]

 * Nature and Human Health Utah: Link [https://naturehumanhealthutah.org/]

 * REI Cooperative Action Fund: Link [https://www.rei.com/newsroom/article/rei-cooperative-action-fund-invests-over-3-8-million-in-initiatives-to-advance-equity-in-the-outdoors-and-research-nature-s-impact-on-health#:~:text=The%20REI%20Cooperative%20Action%20Fund%20is%20a%20501(c)(,of%20the%20co%2Dop%20community]

 * University of Utah: @universityofutah [https://twitter.com/universityofutah]

 * Amy McDonnell: @amymcd09 [https://twitter.com/amymcd09]

 * The Nature and Human Health Utah: @naturehumanhealthut [https://twitter.com/naturehumanhealthut]

Contribute to the Open Circle Foundation [https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/] and our ongoing research partnership with the Cognition Lab. We are together creating greater access to the transformative power of Nature for all.

E 52: The Impact of Nature on the Brain w/Amy McDonnell, University of Utah Applied Cognition Lab 

Deciding how to Decide

This conversation between Open Circle Founders, Miriam Jones and Adam Rumack, explores the topic of decision-making and challenges the assumptions we have about how and why decisions are made. It discusses the definition of decisions and power, both at an individual and group level.

The conversation encourages questioning the structures and methods of decision-making and provides a framework for deciding how to decide. It explores different types of decision-making methods, factors to consider in decision-making, and the pitfalls and benefits of each method. The conversation also delves into the power dynamics and leadership styles involved in decision-making. It concludes by emphasizing the need for agile decision-making and the importance of transparency and trust in the decision-making process.



Takeaways

 * Decisions are actions that involve conscious or unconscious choices and have the power to impact our environment.

 * Individuals and groups make decisions, and there are various methods of decision-making, including command, voting, consult, consensus, and consent.

 * Factors to consider in decision-making include the level of impact, the number of people involved, and the time available.

 * Questioning the structures and methods of decision-making can lead to innovation and adaptation, but it also requires a mindset shift and may disrupt existing power dynamics.

 * Transparent decision-making processes and building trust are essential for effective decision-making in organizations.

Shownote Links

Link to Deciding how to decide model and Leadership Qualities Presentation [https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1kD_2SRHQmmzcLtcS6HXWzk7zeFgWNIBh/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=107008979286037618753&rtpof=true&sd=true]

E51: Deciding how to Decide with Miriam and Adam

Purpose and values.

These simple words hold huge meaning, and potential impact, for how we act in the world.

Welcoming a kindred spirit this week, Adam and Brandon are joined by fellow wilderness expedition leader and founder of leadership development organization StoneWater, Phil Kornachuk.

Phil’s work is rooted in purpose and values, recognising its importance for his own development and his work mentoring, coaching and inspiring growth in individuals, leaders, sports teams and elite military units.

Reflecting on his journey, he reveals the steps he took to starting StoneWater, the lessons he learned from over two decades in the military, the ongoing lessons of business and the lifelong mission of cultivating moral authority.

E50: Purpose, principle, and performance with former Special Ops turned Leadership Coach Phil Kornachuk

How do we become optimistic about uncertainty?

The modern world can be scary. AI is making its mark, anxiety levels are rising, and leaders are faced with more uncertainty than ever.

Enter John Sanei: futures strategist, bestselling author, international keynote speaker, adviser to Fortune 100 companies, global expert at Singularity University and much more.

A tireless educator, John is passionate about using practical neuroscience to elevate consciousness and build a brighter tomorrow.

In the discussion, he outlines his story, dissects the meaning of purpose, reflects on AI, and casts a revealing light on the complexities, and potential, of the human race. Join us!

E49: A.I., Neuroscience, and the Mystical, with Futurist John Sanei

Join us, to mark two milestones in the We are Open Circle journey: the confirmation of Brandon as a partner and the launch of the Open Circle Foundation.

The key theme from today’s episode: uplifting humanity.

Miriam, Adam and Brandon reflect on their shared journey, the divine appointment of their meeting, and the critical connections that forged their bond - as they reflect on the value of their shared work together: the power of their collaboration.

Through their projects, empowering some of the most underserved communities in society, they seek to transform lives, develop leaders and encourage us all to recognize our shared humanity.

For more information, or if you are able to support the Open Circle mission, please visit the link below. Each and every contribution will make a huge difference.

https://www.foundation.weareopencircle.com/

E48: Serving those who Serve

Welcome, for a fascinating insight into a truly singular human - international conflict mediator, college professor, senior consultant and facilitator for the Arbinger Institute, and NBA analyst for ESPN, Chad Ford.

Chad has experienced a lot personally and professionally, and pours these experiences into his writing - fuelling a dedication for helping humanity overcome our differences and reconcile together.

In the discussion with hosts Miriam and Brandon, we learn of his story, recounting the steps in life that led him to writing the vital conflict-management book Dangerous Love.

Amidst the recent escalation of violence and human suffering in the Middle East, Chad’s wisdom and experience working with both sides of the conflict are more necessary than ever.

Join us to uncover the beautiful fruits of this conversation: vulnerability, healing, and shared humanity.

True peace resolution is about “us”.

Please join us in reading this week’s introductory poem: On Love, by Kahlil Gibran. 

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/148579/on-love

E47: Conflict and Loving Dangerously with Chad Ford

Hear from cutting edge voices in people, organization, and human development. Creative professionals who are changing the world, and inspiring all of us to live a more purposeful and inspired life. Hosted by Miriam Jones + Adam Rumack of We are Open Circle. For more information visit https://www.weareopencircle.com

The Beyond Listening Podcast