In this episode of Animals and Us, Natalie speaks with Dr Amanda Beer, licensed psychologist, educator, and Executive Director of Wolf Connection – a sanctuary and wilderness retreat in California where rescued wolves play a vital role in trauma recovery and personal transformation.

Amanda’s work sits at the intersection of clinical psychology and the natural world. With a PhD in Counselling Psychology and a background in trauma-informed care and group facilitation, she brings a depth of knowledge to the human experience – while also drawing on the presence, instincts and relational intelligence of wolves as co-facilitators in healing.

We talk about her journey from academic research and social justice advocacy to the living, breathing work she now leads with wolves and young people on sacred land. She shares the philosophy behind what she calls the school of the wolves – a space where connection, resilience and belonging are taught not through lectures or textbooks, but through presence, trust and shared experience.

Visit https://www.wolfconnection.org/ to learn more about the Wolf Connection organisation

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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

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We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd