Wildly Unplug

Wildly Rejected: Week 22 Update

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a challenge about rejection turns into a lesson about monarch butterflies, conservation, burnout, and knowing when to say no? In this week’s Wildly Rejected: Becoming the Bison, I’m continuing my journey toward 1,000 rejections—but I’m realizing that making 1,000 asks doesn’t mean chasing every opportunity that crosses my path. After another week of balancing podcast interviews, editing, painting, running Wild Developments Studio, and trying to hit my 10 weekly asks, I’m asking a bigger question: Just because you can pursue an opportunity, does that mean you should? But first, we need to talk about the monarchs. After Nemo emerged with a crumpled wing, several more monarch butterflies experienced deformities, failed emergence, or death. That sent me down a rabbit hole researching OE (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha), monarch butterfly disease, tropical milkweed, native Florida milkweed, and how the plants we put in our gardens can affect monarch health. It’s heartbreaking—but it may also be the beginning of something bigger. Then I bring that lesson back to the rejection challenge and share the questions I’m starting to ask before making an application, pitch, submission, or big ask: Do I actually have the time, money, and energy if they say yes? Does this opportunity move something I care about forward—or am I pursuing it simply because it exists? Plus, I share my Week 22 rejection challenge stats, two bigger podcast pitches I finally made, and why becoming comfortable with rejection is turning out to be about much more than hearing “no.” In this episode: • Monarch butterflies and crumpled wing deformities • OE parasite and monarch health • Tropical milkweed vs. native milkweed in Florida • Butterfly conservation and responsible monarch care • Creative burnout and protecting your time • How to decide whether an opportunity is worth pursuing • Overcoming fear of rejection • My 1,000 Rejections / Becoming the Bison challenge • Week 22 rejection statistics • Learning when to make the ask—and when to let something go Wildly Unplug is a podcast about nature, conservation, creativity, adventure, and finding ways to step away from the noise and reconnect with what matters. Until next time—unplug, get outside, and see what develops. Support the show

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Dreams of a Scientist: Science for Everyone- Octopus Vision & Discovery

Send us Fan Mail Seeing the World Through an Octopus’s Eyes with Angelique Allen What does the world look like through an octopus’s eyes? In this fascinating episode, Lauren talks with marine scientist and science communicator Angelique Allen about octopus vision, cephalopod brains, animal perception, and the science behind how octopuses see and interact with their underwater world. Angelique studies how octopuses process visual information and how their brains create a picture of the world around them. She explains one of the most intriguing mysteries in cephalopod vision: how octopuses can camouflage and match their surroundings so remarkably well even though scientists believe they cannot see color the way humans do. We also explore Angelique’s journey into marine biology and animal cognition, the fascinating similarities and differences between octopus and human visual systems, and what studying animal perception can teach us about seeing the world from another species’ perspective. Beyond the lab, Angelique is passionate about making science accessible to everyone. She shares how she uses science comics, community projects, brewery collaborations, and storytelling to bring marine science to audiences who may never encounter it in an academic setting. She also talks about her children’s book, Dreams of a Scientist: Lessons from the Sea, and her mission to help young people see science as a career that is creative, exciting, and possible. If you’re curious about octopuses, marine life, animal intelligence, ocean science, neuroscience, or the mysteries of how animals experience the world, this episode offers a fascinating look beneath the surface. Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 21 Update

Send us Fan Mail What if rejection isn’t the end of the story—but part of the transformation? In this episode of Wildly Unplug, Lauren returns to her 1,000 Rejection Challenge, inspired by Gabby Carr’s rejection challenge, and shares what happened after stepping back into the arena and making 10 new asks. One rejection stung—an artist residency at a Frank Lloyd Wright house. But then an unexpected email arrived: Lauren had received a Guy Harvey Foundation Educator Grant. There was just one problem: she was still waitlisted for the conservation education training the grant was intended to support. Instead of assuming the answer was no, she asked—and a spot opened up. That experience becomes a larger reflection on rejection, self-worth, resilience, persistence, creativity, and learning to recognize opportunities hidden inside a “no.” Lauren also introduces Nemo, a monarch butterfly who emerged with a crumpled wing and cannot be released into the wild. As she cares for him, she discovers fascinating things about monarch butterfly behavior while reflecting on transformation, struggle, and what it means to patiently develop your “wing muscles.” Then comes an unexpected connection between faith, butterflies, and rejection. After listening to a homily about personal worth, struggle, transformation, and the importance of allowing a butterfly to struggle as it emerges from its chrysalis, Lauren finds Nemo the very next day. Is it a coincidence? A message? Or simply a moment that became meaningful because she slowed down enough to notice it? This episode explores what happens when we pay attention, journal, spend time in nature, and stop rushing toward the next answer. Sometimes we don't see how the pieces connect until we pause long enough to look back. Lauren also shares her latest 1,000 Rejection Challenge statistics and talks about her upcoming conservation education training in Key Largo. The challenge this week: If you see someone—or something—in need of help, go out of your way to help. And as always… unplug, get outside, and see what develops. Support the show

Wheeland Brothers: Surfing, Songwriting & Life Beyond the Rat Race

Send us Fan Mail The Wheeland Brothers have built their signature sound around surf rock, reggae, acoustic music, and a life spent chasing waves, adventure, and a little more time off the grid. In this episode of Wildly Unplug, brothers Travis and Nate “Frog” Wheeland join Lauren Connolly for a conversation about music, surfing, nature, burnout, creativity, and what happens when you step away from the noise long enough to actually be present. The brothers share how Jimmy Buffett inspired adventure beyond their Southern California hometown, how Kenny Chesney and SiriusXM helped turn their music into something financially possible, and why they still think of music as a passion more than a career. They also talk about writing songs around campfires, surfing with dolphins and great white sharks, finding inspiration on unnamed beaches, and why some of their best creative ideas happen far away from cell service. We also dive into the reality of turning something you love into your job, the importance of rest, their relationship as brothers and collaborators, and why nature has become their antidote to burnout and the constant pull of phones and technology. Plus, the Wheeland Brothers talk about their upcoming trip to Key West for Just a Few Friends, their new song “Island Town,” and why escaping the rat race might be less about doing nothing—and more about reconnecting with something real. If you love surf rock, beach music, surfing, nature, outdoor adventure, creativity, or conversations about slowing down and living a little more unplugged, this episode is for you. In this episode: The Wheeland Brothers • surf rock and reggae • Jimmy Buffett’s influence • Kenny Chesney and No Shoes Radio • Radio Margaritaville • songwriting and creativity • surfing and ocean stories • burnout and rest • nature and mental reset • unplugging from technology • Key West • Just a Few Friends • “Island Town” • finding adventure off the map Wildly Unplug explores stories of nature, conservation, creativity, and adventure that remind us there’s more to life than the hustle. Get outside and see what develops. Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 20 Update

Send us Fan Mail Becoming the Bison: Monarch Mistakes, Putting Down Roots & Learning to Be a Beginner Again What happens when you move to a new ecosystem and realize you don’t know nearly as much as you thought you did? In this week’s Wildly Rejected: Becoming the Bison, Lauren shares an unexpectedly chaotic lesson involving monarch butterflies, 20 very hungry caterpillars, and one major realization about moving from Ohio to Key West, Florida. After years of watching and tagging migrating monarchs in Ohio, she discovers that island life—and the wildlife that comes with it—plays by a very different set of rules. But the monarch mishap becomes part of a much bigger transition. As Lauren settles into Key West, becomes an empty nester, starts ukulele lessons, joins the Key West Writers Guild, explores volunteering with local parrots, and looks for ways to become part of her new community, the 1,000 Rejection Challenge is beginning to change. Instead of simply asking, Will you accept my work?, the bigger question is becoming: Where do I belong? There’s still rejection, too. Lauren gets an answer after a five-month wait on an environmental art grant, submits a favorite sea turtle photograph to the Sea Turtle Preservation Society’s 2027 calendar contest, and makes another kind of ask—one centered on finding community rather than collecting accomplishments. This episode is about rejection, life transitions, empty nest life, monarch butterflies, citizen science, nature journaling, Key West wildlife, finding community, and giving yourself permission to become a beginner again. Because the goal may still be 1,000 rejections, but it was never supposed to become another hustle-culture checklist. Sometimes moving forward means slowing down long enough to learn the soil beneath your feet. Current 1,000 Rejection Challenge stats: 170 total asks | 39 accepted | 79 rejected | 30 in review | 17 waiting for a response | 2 waitlisted | 3 other. Wildly Unplug is a podcast about stepping away from hustle culture and reconnecting with the wild through stories of nature, conservation, creativity, wildlife, adventure, and personal growth. Until next time, unplug, get outside, and see what develops. Support the show

Wildly Rejected Weeks 16, 17, 18, 19 Update

Send us Fan Mail What happens when rejection collides with grief, an empty nest, and a completely new life? In this deeply personal Wildly Rejected: Becoming the Bison update, Lauren catches up on weeks 16–19 of her 1,000 Rejection Challenge. She reflects on saying goodbye to her beloved dog Georgie, watching her son leave for college, moving away from Cincinnati, and beginning again as a full-time Key West resident—all while feeling caught in the “ooey-gooey” middle of transformation. Along the way, she shares the sting of rejection from the Fantasy Fest poster contest, NASA Social, the Pollock-Krasner Foundation, and a literary publication—as well as the surprising gift of receiving constructive feedback. But the challenge is also beginning to mean something new. Her latest asks aren’t only about awards, sales, and recognition; they’re about friendship, volunteering, conservation, creativity, and finding her place in a new community. This episode is a reminder that falling behind doesn’t mean failing. Sometimes becoming the bison simply means giving yourself permission to grieve, take a break, pull your foot out of the quicksand, and keep moving forward—one small step and one brave ask at a time. Current challenge stats: • 167 total asks • 39 accepted • 77 rejected • 31 in review • 16 awaiting a response • 2 waitlisted • 2 other Until next time, unplug, get outside, and see what develops. Support the show

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Wildly Rejected Week 15 Update

Send us Fan Mail Happy Summer Y’All! Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 13 & 14 Update

Send us Fan Mail Hope everyone is having a good summer so far! Catching up after the holiday! Enjoy! Support the show

Ryan & The Remedy with Ryan Galway

Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Ryan: https://www.ryangalway.com 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join What does it take to chase a lifelong dream in the music industry while staying authentic to yourself? In this episode of the Wildly Unplug podcast, Lauren sits down with musician, songwriter, producer, and founder of Sleepless Lyfe Records, Ryan Galloway, for a deeply honest conversation about creativity, resilience, burnout, songwriting, and stepping outside your comfort zone. Ryan shares his journey from DJing and tour management to finally releasing his own music and concept album Heart Matter. The conversation explores the emotional side of songwriting, overcoming self-doubt, finding your artistic identity, and why some of the best creative breakthroughs happen when you stop waiting for permission and simply begin. From touring with Bon Jovi to launching Sleepless Lyfe Records, Ryan opens up about grief, ambition, perseverance, music industry realities, and the lessons he’s learned from years behind the scenes. This episode also dives into the healing power of music, reconnecting with yourself through creativity, and how nature can help ground us during overwhelming seasons of life. If you love conversations about music, storytelling, personal growth, creative courage, and following unconventional dreams, this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: • Songwriting and storytelling • The creative process behind Heart Matter • Music industry lessons and touring experiences • Overcoming fear and self-doubt • Creativity, burnout, and authenticity • Nature, mindfulness, and personal reflection • The importance of taking risks and chasing dreams • Independent music, record labels, and modern artists 🌿 Follow Wildly Unplug for more conversations about nature, creativity, conservation, storytelling, and the human experience. 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 12 Update

Send us Fan Mail Week 12 of the 1,000 Rejection Challenge brought an unexpected realization: I had four rejections this week... and they weren't the most important thing that happened. In this episode, I share why that feels like a major milestone, the surprising power of encouragement after last week's troll encounter, and how a few kind messages reminded me that words can build people up just as easily as they can tear them down. I also talk about stepping outside my comfort zone by entering the Trekell Pet Portrait Competition using two materials I'd never completed a project with before—gouache and wood panels. Plus, a classroom full of students using my aquatic animal watercolor kits gave me one of the most rewarding moments I've experienced since starting Wild Developments Studio. Along the way, we'll discuss creativity, resilience, trying new things, spending time on the water in Key West, and why sometimes the biggest wins aren't found in acceptance emails or contest results at all. If you've ever felt discouraged by rejection, questioned whether your work matters, or needed a reminder to keep creating anyway, this episode is for you. Topics include: rejection, resilience, creativity, watercolor, gouache painting, pet portraits, conservation education, nature connection, personal growth, art challenges, overcoming criticism, and the 1,000 Rejection Challenge. Unplug, get outside, and see what develops. Support the show

Peter Draws with Peter

Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Peter: Website: https://www.peterdraws.com/ Follow on Instagram: @Peterdraws Youtube: @peter_draws 🌿 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join What happens when an artist stops overthinking, trusts their gut, and simply starts creating? In this episode of the Wildly Unplug podcast, Lauren sits down with artist and YouTuber Peter Draws for a deep conversation about creativity, intuition, artistic identity, nature, burnout, social media, and the messy reality of building a creative life online. Peter shares how he accidentally became a full-time artist, why he never planned on an art career, and how YouTube helped him carve out his own unconventional path. The conversation explores pen and ink illustration, creative block, sketchbooks, perfectionism, editing YouTube videos, trusting your intuition, and the connection between art and nature. If you’ve ever struggled with calling yourself an artist, felt stuck creatively, or wondered how to balance creativity with social media, this episode is for you. In this episode: How Peter Draws became a full-time artist Why he works directly in ink without sketching first How nature helps calm the mind and spark creativity The childhood books that influenced his artistic style The hidden reality of filming and editing art videos Creative intuition, overthinking, and following your gut Sketchbooks, doodling, and artistic evolution Why mistakes can actually improve your art Exploring different art mediums and overcoming fear Advice for reconnecting with nature and creativity Whether you’re an illustrator, watercolor artist, creative entrepreneur, nature lover, or someone recovering from hustle culture and burnout, this episode will leave you inspired to unplug, create, and trust yourself a little more. 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 11 Update

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a week feels like nothing is moving forward? In this week's 1,000 Rejection Challenge update, Lauren shares a surprisingly eventful "stagnant" week that included a film festival rejection, an unforgettable encounter with an internet troll, and an unexpected opportunity connected to NASA. Along the way, she explores the difference between criticism from strangers and the negative voice we often carry inside ourselves—one she has officially named "Salomon." Lauren also reflects on the realities of podcasting, the temptation to measure success by money or numbers, and why meaningful connections may be the greatest return on investment. From rejection and self-doubt to resilience, creativity, and rocket launch applications, this episode is a reminder that progress often feels slow while we're living it. After 136 asks, the scoreboard stands perfectly balanced: 30 acceptances, 30 rejections, and countless lessons learned in between. Whether you're pursuing a creative dream, facing criticism, building something from scratch, or simply wondering if your efforts matter, this episode is for you. #RejectionChallenge #CreativeJourney #Podcasting #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #NatureInspired #WildlyUnplug #Creativity #OvercomingSelfDoubt #NASA #ArtistLife #Storytelling Support the show

All My Pieces Art with Melanie

Send us Fan Mail 🕊️ In Memory of Melanie Since recording this episode, Melanie unexpectedly passed away. Her joy for art, storytelling, animals, and life itself shines throughout this conversation. I’m deeply grateful our paths crossed, even briefly, and I hope this episode inspires others to slow down, create, and appreciate the people who leave lasting impressions on our hearts. Follow Melanie / All My Pieces Art: Website: https://allmypiecesart.com Instagram: @allmypiecesart Facebook: All My Pieces Art What happens when burnout leads you somewhere unexpected? In this heartfelt episode of Wildly Unplug, Lauren sits down with animal portrait artist Melanie of All My Pieces Art to discuss how art, storytelling, and creativity helped transform her life after a long and stressful healthcare career. Melanie shares her inspiring journey from healthcare executive to self-taught artist in just eight months, revealing how a therapist’s suggestion to try coloring eventually evolved into a thriving art business focused on emotional storytelling through pet portraits and wildlife art. Together, they explore the healing power of creativity, burnout recovery, slowing down, nature connection, and why animals hold such deep emotional meaning in our lives. From drawing soulful pet portraits to caring for aging parents, navigating stress, rediscovering childhood memories, and finding purpose later in life, this conversation is a reminder that it is never too late to start something new. ✨ In this episode: How art became a tool for healing burnout The emotional connection behind pet portraits Why storytelling matters in art Creativity after retirement How slowing down can change your life Nature, animals, and unconditional love Overcoming imposter syndrome as an artist Rediscovering yourself through creativity 🌿 Whether you're an artist, animal lover, creative soul, or someone searching for a slower and more meaningful life, this episode will leave you inspired to reconnect with what matters most. 🎙️ Wildly Unplugged shares stories of nature, conservation, creativity, and the people discovering what develops when they unplug and step outdoors. #WildlyUnplugged #PetPortraitArtist #BurnoutRecovery #CreativityHealing #NaturePodcast #WildlifeArt #ArtistJourney #MentalHealth #Storytelling #AnimalLovers #ArtPodcast #CreativeLiving #Watercolor #NatureConnection #SelfTaughtArtist 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 10 Update

Send us Fan Mail Week 10 of the 1,000 Rejection Challenge brought an unexpected lesson: not every acceptance is actually a win. In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, Lauren shares how the excitement of receiving a children's book publishing offer quickly turned into a crash course on vanity publishing, author scams, and the importance of doing your research before signing a contract. After receiving an acceptance for Vinnie the Vulture Finds His Place, Lauren dug deeper into the publisher's claims, reviewed the contract, and ultimately walked away from a deal that didn't feel right. She also shares another hard-earned lesson involving lawyers, a vehicle recall, and why slowing down to investigate opportunities can save you money, stress, and regret. Along the way, Lauren provides an update on her 1,000 Rejection Challenge, discusses submitting to literary agents, writing a second children's book (Nancy the Nurse Shark Finds Her Place), spotting contest scams, and the surprising benefits of taking a break before burnout takes over. If you've ever wondered: How to spot a vanity publisher What red flags to watch for in publishing contracts Whether literary agents are worth pursuing How to avoid scams targeting artists and authors What the 1,000 Rejection Challenge can teach about resilience How to recognize and prevent creative burnout ...this episode is for you. Key Topics: ✔ Vanity publishing vs. traditional publishing ✔ Children's book publishing journey ✔ Literary agent submissions ✔ Author and artist scams ✔ Rejection Challenge Week 10 update ✔ Creative entrepreneurship ✔ Burnout prevention for creatives ✔ Self-publishing lessons learned ✔ Building resilience through rejection ✔ Writing and illustrating children's books Challenge Stats Update: 📊 Total Asks: 123 ✅ Accepted: 31 ❌ Rejected: 31 ⏳ In Review: 61 Sometimes the biggest victory isn't getting accepted—it's knowing when to walk away. Connect with Wildly Unplugged: Discover what develops when you unplug and step outdoors through stories of nature, conservation, creativity, and personal growth. Support the show

On Safari with Scott Brills

Send us Fan Mail Learn more / book a trip: Safari experiences: https://www.pamojasafaris.com What if you could build a life that combines travel, wildlife, and entrepreneurship… and actually make it work? In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, I sit down with Scott to talk about how he turned a passion for adventure into a career—running safari experiences in Africa, food tours in Japan, and creative fundraising journeys around the world. From driving sneaker-shaped cars across continents to building a safari company from the ground up, Scott shares what it really takes to create a life outside the traditional path. We dive into: How he combined entrepreneurship, travel, and wildlife into one career The reality of building a business (and why it took years to work) Wild adventure stories—from cheetahs jumping on vehicles to crossing Africa What it’s actually like to go on an African safari (and how safe it is) The concept of forest bathing and why nature is essential for mental reset Following curiosity instead of convention If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling more, working for yourself, or reconnecting with the wild—this episode is your reminder that it’s possible… just not always easy. Adventure doesn’t just happen—you build it. 🌿 About Wild Developments Studio: Helping you reconnect with nature through art, storytelling, and creative exploration. 🎧 Podcast: Wildly Unplugged 🎨 Art + Classes: (your links) 📩 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join ✨ Don’t forget to: 👍 Like 💬 Comment (Have you ever tried climbing?) 🔔 Subscribe for more nature, creativity, and adventure 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected: Week 9 Update

Send us Fan Mail The honeymoon phase is over. Now what? In this honest episode of Wildly Unplugged, Lauren Connolly shares a raw update from her 1,000 Rejection Challenge, reflecting on burnout, creative resilience, art rejection, and navigating major life transitions. After months of pitching podcasts, submitting artwork, applying for grants, and pursuing opportunities, Lauren reveals the surprising statistics behind her challenge—and why her feelings don't always match the facts. This episode explores: The reality of rejection and creative burnout Why art rejections hurt differently than other setbacks What 115 asks, 29 acceptances, and 28 rejections have taught her The emotional transition of becoming an empty-nest parent Finding purpose beyond productivity and hustle culture Building a creative life rooted in faith rather than external validation How creators, artists, writers, podcasters, and entrepreneurs can keep showing up when growth feels slow If you've ever wondered whether your work matters, struggled with self-doubt, felt stuck in a season of uncertainty, or questioned whether anyone is paying attention, this episode is for you. Wildly Unplugged is a podcast about nature, conservation, creativity, personal growth, and discovering what develops when you unplug and step outdoors. Support the show

Nature Photography with Peter Sewell

Send us Fan Mail Link to Peter's Website- https://www.petersewell.com/photography.html What happens when life completely falls apart… and you choose to start over? In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, I sit down with Peter Sewell to talk about travel, photography, resilience, and how reconnecting with the world can help you reconnect with yourself. After a major life transition, Peter set out on a journey that would take him across continents, cultures, and ultimately into a new chapter of life—one filled with adventure, storytelling, and deep personal growth. We explore: The “Eat, Pray, Love” moment that changed everything What traveling to lesser-known countries taught him about humanity Near-death experiences and navigating fear in unfamiliar places The power of gratitude journaling (and how it can change your perspective) How nature can ground you—even in the simplest moments From climbing mountains to being chased by wildlife, to finding peace in silence and stillness, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the hardest seasons lead to the most meaningful transformations. You don’t need to go far to reconnect—but sometimes, the journey changes everything. 🌿 About Wild Developments Studio: Helping you reconnect with nature through art, storytelling, and creative exploration. 🎧 Podcast: Wildly Unplugged 🎨 Art + Classes: (your links) 📩 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join ✨ Don’t forget to: 👍 Like 💬 Comment (Have you ever tried climbing?) 🔔 Subscribe for more nature, creativity, and adventure 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected - Week 8 Update

Send us Fan Mail 2023 Solo Retreat to Cade’s Cove Playlist- https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/photography-expedition/pl.u-e98lGamUzoR5jl Support the show

National Geographic Photography with Jason Edwards

Send us Fan Mail 🔗 Connect with Jason: https://www.jasonedwards.co/en-us What does it really take to become a wildlife photographer for National Geographic? In this episode of Wildly Unplugged, I sit down with Jason Edwards—former zookeeper turned world-renowned wildlife photographer—to uncover the raw, unfiltered truth behind a career that many people dream about… but few truly understand. From working with big cats and primates to photographing some of the most remote places on Earth, Jason shares what it actually takes to capture powerful images in the wild—and the personal cost that often comes with it. We explore: The reality behind wildlife photography (beyond the highlight reel) Why passion alone isn’t enough—you need resilience The physical and mental challenges of life in the field The role of journaling in storytelling and processing experiences How nature helps you reconnect with yourself after burnout Why slowing down matters in a fast, digital world Jason also shares stories from his book Icebergs and Iguanas, along with deeply personal reflections on creativity, identity, and finding your way back after losing connection with your craft. This episode is for anyone who: Dreams of working in nature Feels disconnected from their creativity Needs a reminder to slow down and be present Sometimes the wild doesn’t just show you the world… it shows you yourself. Stay Wild. 🌿 About Wild Developments Studio: Helping you reconnect with nature through art, storytelling, and creative exploration. 🎧 Podcast: Wildly Unplugged 🎨 Art + Classes: (your links) 📩 Download your free Wildly Unplug Starter Guide here: https://gem.godaddy.com/signups/ebd116a3a09647638aa4d85c004839fa/join ✨ Don’t forget to: 👍 Like 💬 Comment (Have you ever tried climbing?) 🔔 Subscribe for more nature, creativity, and adventure 🎧 Like the vibe of the Wildly Unplug intro/outro music? It was custom-made by the incredibly talented Danny on Fiverr! 🌿✨ Seriously brought the vision to life perfectly. Go check him out: https://www.fiverr.com/danny85805?source=inbox Support the show

Wildly Rejected- Week 7 Update

Send us Fan Mail Wildly Rejected Week 7: Becoming the Bison, Avoiding Art Scams & Celebrating a Sea Turtle Win In this Week 7 update of the Wildly Unplug podcast, Lauren Connolly shares the latest chapter of the Wildly Rejected Challenge, also known as Becoming the Bison: a creative challenge to face rejection head-on instead of running from it. This week brings a mix of discernment, disappointment, and a big creative win. Lauren shares updates on questionable pay-to-play art opportunities, alleged misleading art competition tactics, her decision to step back from suspicious platforms, and why artists deserve more transparency when paying submission fees. But it’s not all rejection. Lauren also celebrates Loggerhead Lagoon placing second in Blue Koi Gallery’s Earth and Elements Art Competition, reflects on submitting Finding Frogman to film festivals, and shares her current challenge stats: 98 submissions, 22 accepted, 18 rejected, 37 in review, and 21 still waiting. This episode is about more than collecting “no’s.” It’s about learning discernment, protecting your creative energy, finding legitimate opportunities, and remembering that every rejection can still lead to growth, stories, and unexpected yeses. Come along for creative honesty, nature distractions, Cincinnati weather chaos, indigo bunting excitement, art competition lessons, and a reminder to keep putting your work into the world. Support the show