About
Research-backed programs for nature-based practice
Programs-first Approach
I create evidence-based programs that help people connect with nature, backed by research on which biotic and abiotic factors impact health and well-being.
Current programs
– Sit Spot Club: Daily nature practice
– 72 Microseasons: Seasonal observation framework
– Silent Trails: Pilot project reducing noise to enhance natural soundscapes
Research
I hold a PhD in Forestry from the University of British Columbia, where I conducted a randomized crossover study examining how environmental factors and vegetation characteristics relate to human wellbeing in forest immersion.
Research focus areas:
1. Soundscapes and acoustic conditions
2. Microclimate factors (temperature, humidity, light, air quality)
3. Vegetation composition and diversity
4. Guided vs. self-guided nature immersion approaches
Methodology: Multi-season field study in Metro Vancouver’s urban and peri-urban forests, measuring physiological and psychological outcomes alongside environmental variables.
Selected Work
Trail Assessment & Methodology Development: I’ve assessed over 40 trails across Metro Vancouver, developing evaluation frameworks that measure acoustic conditions, vegetation characteristics, and environmental factors relevant to human wellbeing.
This work led to the Silent Trails methodology, a pilot project with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks that identifies and protects acoustically valuable natural spaces. The assessment framework is now available as a practitioner toolkit.
Community Programs
I founded Sit Spot Club, a community program designed for minimal oversight while creating consistent nature connection experiences. The program demonstrates how evidence-based frameworks enable scalable impact without requiring constant facilitation.
What I Make
Programs (for individuals seeking nature practice)
Structured experiences designed for independent use—daily practices, seasonal frameworks, evidence-based protocols.
Toolkits (for practitioners implementing programs)
Assessment frameworks, program templates, and research-backed methodologies that practitioners can adapt and deploy.
Publications (for the field)
Peer-reviewed papers, conference presentations, and research reports documenting findings and methodologies.
Creative translations (for broader reach)and
Comics, graphic novels, and fiction that make research accessible beyond academic audiences.
Background
Before focusing on nature-based practice, I spent 20+ years in product development and program leadership:
KitHub (co-founder) – STEAM education kits for hands-on learning
This experience enables rapid prototyping, scalable design, and building programs that work without requiring ongoing oversight.
LA Makerspace (co-founder) – 20,000+ students via LA Public Library partnerships
Connected Camps (co-founder) – Online learning in digital making
Microsoft (8 years) – Senior Lead Program Manager, managed full product cycle releases
Certifications:
Forest Therapy Guide, Forest Medicine Practitioner
Speaking & Teaching
I give talks and workshops on:
– Evidence-based nature interventions in urban settings
– Trail assessment methodologies
– Soundscape preservation for health and biodiversity
– Translating research into practical programs
Recent venues:
IUFRO, World Conference on Forests and Parks for Public Health, Metro Vancouver Regional Parks, UBC Faculty of Forestry
Guiding Aim
My work is guided by the aim of supporting meaningful human–nature connections in ways that also benefit living systems and the more-than-human world.
I’VE BEEN FEATURED ON…
