What if the key to healthier people, stronger communities, and more resilient businesses was right outside our window? In the latest episode of The Sustainable Angler podcast, I sit down with Dr. Susan Johnson, founder of Nature at Work, a statewide South Carolina initiative built on the belief that healthier people and healthier places are deeply connected—through nature.
I first met Susan a few years ago when she was working at MUSC, and then through her work with the South Carolina Healthy Business Challenge, and earlier this year we had an opportunity to teach a class together through The Sustainability Leadership Initiative (SLI), which is “an innovative leadership development program that uses cross-boundary dialogue, field sessions, and experiential learning to enhance skills and equip fellows to enact positive change in their organizations and communities” put on by the Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities at Furman University and Sustain SC. Personally, through sea kayaking, surfing, and fly fishing, I have experienced the healing power of nature, which is why I am thrilled to share this interview, and wish Susan nothing but success with your latest innovative initiative, Nature at Work!
The Connection Between Nature and Health
In this episode, Susan shares powerful insights and research from her time at MUSC, where studies revealed that patients with views of nature had better health outcomes compared to those without. Even spending just five minutes outdoors can lower stress levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart health. Nature, she explains, makes us healthier, happier, and even smarter:
- Healthier: Exposure to nature slows heart rate, lowers cortisol, and boosts Vitamin D levels.
- Happier: Time outdoors helps with anxiety, depression, and mental health.
- Smarter: Nature improves focus, sparks creativity, and increases productivity.
- Better Stewards: People protect what they love, and time in nature fosters environmental responsibility.
Kayaking, Wood Storks, and the Lowcountry
The conversation highlights Rick and Susan’s shared experiences in the South Carolina Lowcountry—kayaking through salt marshes teeming with life and celebrating conservation success stories, like the rebound of the once-endangered wood stork. These moments serve as reminders that connecting with nature is both deeply personal and profoundly impactful.
Nature at Work: Bringing the Outdoors In
Through Nature at Work, Susan is helping businesses and organizations integrate the healing power of nature into everyday life. This includes:
- Biophilic Design: Bringing nature indoors with plants, windows, and natural light.
- Nature-Based Wellness Strategies: Outdoor mindfulness sessions, walking meetings, and time outside.
- Conservation Volunteering: Activities like oyster reef restoration that improve the environment while delivering health benefits.
- Education: Helping individuals and organizations understand the science and benefits of nature-based health promotion.
Why This Matters for Businesses
In today’s fast-paced world, we spend an average of 92% of our time indoors. That disconnect comes at a cost—to our health, happiness, and productivity. Forward-thinking businesses are discovering that integrating nature into the workplace is not just good for employees, it’s good for business. Happier, healthier, and more focused teams deliver better results—and a stronger connection to nature inspires greater stewardship of our planet.
Listen to the Full Conversation
Don’t miss this inspiring episode of The Sustainable Angler featuring Susan Johnson. Whether you’re a business leader, outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking to live healthier and more connected, this conversation will leave you with practical insights and renewed appreciation for the healing power of nature.
🎧 Listen now: