We know heading outside helps us all sort through the junk of life -- a tough day, actual trauma, relationships, whatever. And veterans know spending time in nature also has special power over the wounds of military service. For Vedia Barnett, a disabled Black Air Force veteran and founder of the nonprofit organization Black Vets Outdoors, spending time outside has extra power. She’s seen it work to heal the double trauma carried by those who carry both the burden of military service and the weight of racism. In this episode she talks about: Creating a sense of belonging outdoors Why reaching out and supporting Black veterans is important The power of heading outside for everyone Join us as we explore the transformative impact of nature on veterans, the incredible resilience and camaraderie found within veteran-led groups like Vedia’s -- and how you can make an impact for them, too. Connect with this episode: Visit Black Vets Outdoors Connect with Vedia Barnett on LinkedIn Join the Humans Outside Challenge Follow Humans Outside on Instagram Follow Humans Outside on Facebook Some of the good stuff: [3:33] Vedia Barnett’s favorite outdoor space [4:01] Vedia’s outdoor story [4:40] About Vedia’s military service [6:18] Yes, to join the military, she really did have to sign over custody of her son [9:08] Vedia’s work with veterans [11:06] How does going outside help veterans? [14:06] Why a sense of belonging matters outside [16:44] Do military veterans experience healing outdoors differently from other people? [20:03] All about Black Vets Outdoors [22:38] Why outdoor affinity groups are important [25:00] Simply finding outdoor joy [29:02] How spending time outside impacts the Black veteran community, specifically [32:00] The impact of historic trauma [35:18] How Black vets can access the group and how allies can help [43:12] Vedia’s favorite outdoor moment