I used to struggle with a deep sense of overwhelm whenever I thought about the state of our planet, often finding it easier to just not think about it. However, my conversation about Eco-Psychology with Dennis Kiley shifted my perspective by framing our current situation not just as an environmental disaster, but as a “crisis of consciousness” rooted in a “story of separation.”
If you’re struggling with the state of our planet. You don’t want to miss this episode. It is filled with helpful ideas and practices. For instance, Dennis introduces the concept of “psychological biomimicry,” which suggests that we can look to nature’s own patterns—like its ability to adapt and regenerate—to build our own mental resilience and find a way through these dark times.
“The eagle perspective is the like the really large context of where we are... But then we also need the ant perspective, which is in the moment. It’s right here. It’s right now.” — Dennis Kiley
Dennis Kiley shares many helpful strategies like shifting between the “eagle” and the “ant” perspective; using a technique he calls “Face, Feel, and Flow;” and many other practices that cultivate resilience.
If you have been feeling anxious or have “eco-anxiety,” Dennis explains why that pain is actually a testament to your care for the world rather than a sign that something is wrong with you. This episode offers a practical map for moving from isolation toward a “web of belonging” and meaningful action. Listen now to join the conversation!
“No one can do everything, but everyone can do something…finding some area of purpose and passion where you can give in a way that feels generative for you and your community and the planet.” — Dennis Kiley
Organizations and Official Sources
The Ecopsychology Initiative: The organization founded by guest Dennis Kiley that integrates nature and psychology for healing and resilience.
Link: Ecopsychology Initiative
A Climate to Thrive: A nonprofit co-founded by Dennis Kiley with the goal of energy independence for Mount Desert Island by 2030.
Link: A Climate to Thrive
Maine Climate Council: A state council where Kiley led a working group on psychological resilience and mental health in the face of climate change.
Link: Maine Climate Council
Authors and Researchers
Theodore Roszak: A scholar credited with coining the term “ecopsychology” in the 1980s to bridge the fields of ecology and psychology.
Reference: The Voice of the Earth
Rick Hanson: A psychologist mentioned for his work on “taking in the good” and the importance of giving oneself credit to build resilience.
Reference: Rick Hanson’s Website
Matthew White: A researcher whose findings suggest that spending just two hours a week outdoors provides long-term benefits for mental health.
Reference: Nature study in Scientific Reports
Thich Nhat Hanh: A Zen Master referenced for an interview regarding climate change and the “long-term perspective” of life’s ephemeral nature.
Reference: Plum Village - Thich Nhat Hanh
Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson: A marine biologist and policy expert referenced for her framework on finding the intersection of passions, skills, and community needs for climate action.
Reference: The Climate Action Venn Diagram
Stories and Myths
The Myth of Daedalus and Icarus: A Greek myth read in full by the host to illustrate biomimicry (mimicking bird wings) and the dangers of human hubris in ignoring natural limitations.
Link: Daedalus and Icarus
Podcast Resources
Resilience in Dark Times: The podcast hosted by Michael Glavin.
Deeper Connections Counseling: Resilience in Dark Times Host, Michael Glavin’s, counseling center.
