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About the Show
About the Show
Our WILD Backyard is a podcast for nature-curious humans living in the Midwest. In this interview-style podcast, host and naturalist, Jennifer McLaughlin, will ask regional experts curious questions like - Why do squirrels zig-zag across the road? How to chickadees stay warm in the winter? Are insects beneficial to humans? By learning about the wonders around us, listeners will gain a deep appreciation for the intricate and fascinating world we call home and understand how humans can work with nature to benefit each other.
About the Host
About the Host
Hello, I’m Jennifer! I’m a sustainability educator and unofficial nature nerd with a Bachelor of Science in environmental science/ecology and biology. Whether observing leafcutter ants in Costa Rica or watching squirrels in my backyard, nature is my happy place. I've traveled to 50+ US national parks and 5 countries, experiencing a variety of ecosystems. But even after the most amazing trip (which definitely includes a deep dive into the nature scene), it always feels good to be back home. It was a desire to learn more about nature right around me every day that drove me to become a South Dakota Volunteer Naturalist in 2025. With that passion and my deep fascination of human interactions with the natural world, I’m excited to bring you Our Wild Backyard!
Episodes
Episodes
Preview: Our WIld Backyard
Preview: Our WIld Backyard
Posted: March 14, 2026
Bumblebees with Amanda bachmann, Phd
Bumblebees with Amanda bachmann, Phd
Posted: March 14, 2026
Urban Entomologist, Amanda Bachmann, PhD, discusses bumblebee's characteristics, diversity, and ecological importance. She explains the differences between bumblebees, honeybees, and wasps, and highlights the various species found in the Midwest. Amanda also describes a typical day in the life of a bumblebee, their nesting habits, and the challenges they face due to habitat loss and pesticide use. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating habitats for bumblebees and encourages listeners to appreciate and protect these vital pollinators.
cottonwoods with tanner aiken
cottonwoods with tanner aiken
Posted: April 10, 2026
Tanner Aiken, South Dakota State University Horticulturist, shares his passion for cottonwood trees, discussing their significance in urban forestry and their unique characteristics. Tanner explains how cottonwoods, often criticized for their messy seeds, are actually vital to the ecosystem, particularly their role in supporting wildlife. Tanner also emphasizes the importance of planting diverse tree species to mitigate risks from pests and environmental changes.
Eastern Fox Squirrels with Dr. James A. WIlson
Eastern Fox Squirrels with Dr. James A. WIlson
Posted: May 11, 2026
Dr. James A. Wilson, a professor in the Biology Department at University of Nebraska Omaha, shares fascinating insights into the world of fox squirrels, covering their behavior, ecology, and unique adaptations. Discover how these charismatic creatures impact our ecosystems and why they zig-zag across the road.
Contact: info@ourwildbackyard.org
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