In Our Nature

In Our Nature shares the stories of changemakers using nature to bridge divides—and reveals how a more connected, resilient future might already be taking root.

What if environmental education were seen not as a luxury, but as essential to mental health, civic connection, and strong communities? 

And what happens when young people, no matter their background or political stripe, are given the chance to connect with the nature that connects us all?

Watch the In Our Nature trailer!

In Our Nature explores how environmental education—and the people who teach with it—can help heal some of our most pressing social, emotional, and political divides. Through stories of resilience and reconnection, the film reveals why nature belongs at the heart of what it means to be truly educated.

In Our Nature and Environmental Education

Layered throughout In Our Nature, environmental education serves as a bridge across differences and challenges. Chicago's Southside Blooms transforms vacant lots into thriving flower farms while creating economic opportunities for young people. Lexington’s own Red Oaks Forest School builds confidence and critical thinking skills through child-led exploration in nature. And in Texas, programs are making environmental learning accessible—and enjoyable—regardless of background or circumstance.

The educators in this film are developing environmentally literate residents—people who understand environmental systems, can think critically about global and local issues, and who have the skills, motivation, and dedication to pursue solutions.

In Our Nature is a testament to the power of environmental education to create the more sustainable, equitable world we all envision.  

Behind the Scenes Photos

Juliet Grable and James Parker stand with young adults while filming In Our Nature in Lexington, Kentucky
James Parker and Juliet Grable and two participants stand together while working on the In Our Nature documentary
Juliet Grable kneels to interact with a child while filming In Our Nature in Lexington, Kentucky

How to View the Film

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Still-frame image of In Our Nature film

About the Production of In Our Nature

In Our Nature, a film by Synchronous Pictures, was directed by James Parker and produced by Juliet Grable and James Parker, in association with the North American Association for Environmental Education. Additional support was provided by the Elizabeth G. Maughan Charitable Foundation.

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James Parker and Juliet Grable look through a camera while making a documentary

Hear from the Filmmakers

Through their film, In Our Nature, filmmakers James Parker and Juliet Grable investigate how environmental education proves to be one of the most effective tools for building community and finding common ground. Listen to "Environmental Education Efforts from the South Side to San Antonio," episode 11 of season 1 of The World We Want: An NAAEE Podcast.

Images from Recent Film Screenings of In Our Nature

People mingle at the Lexington premier of In Our Nature.
A panel of participants discusses onstage the film In Our Nature
Panel of In Our Nature participants are interviewed on stage at the film's Lexington premier