Podcast Summary: The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast | Episode 1KHO 502: How to Live While You Wait
Podcast Information:
- Title: The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast
- Host/Author: That Sounds Fun Network
- Description: Emphasizes the finite nature of childhood and the critical role of unrestricted outdoor play in childhood development. Encourages tracking and maximizing time spent outdoors to counteract excessive screen time.
- Episode: 1KHO 502: How to Live While You Wait | Dawn Chere Wilkerson, Slow Burn
- Release Date: June 13, 2025
Introduction and Book Launch
[00:31] Jenny Urch (Host): "Welcome to the 1000 Hours Outside podcast. My name is Jenny Urch, founder of 1000 Hours Outside."
Jenny introduces her guest, Dawn Chere Wilkerson, author of Slow Burn, highlighting the book's blend of nature references and personal challenges, including Dawn's infertility journey.
[00:58] Dawn Chere Wilkerson (Guest): "Thank you. It's so good to be with you. I appreciate your voice and your encouragement in all of our homes and lives."
Impactful Studies and Personal Reflections
Dawn discusses a transformative study involving fake facial scars, illustrating how our perceptions can alter our interactions and self-view.
[02:35] Dawn: "When we feel our wounds are exposed, we might believe everyone is judging us, but often, no one even notices."
[04:25] Jenny: "A negative belief can lead to a negative interpretation of a neutral interaction. The way you see yourself dictates how others see you."
This leads to a broader discussion on self-perception, healing, and the importance of community in overcoming personal struggles.
Dawn's Background and Personal Journey
Dawn shares her upbringing in Shreveport, Louisiana, her family's musical background, and her relocation to Miami.
[05:16] Dawn: "About close to 20 years ago, I moved to Miami with my husband. We've been married 19 years this year."
She opens up about her eight-year infertility journey, describing it as a transformative period that deepened her faith and reshaped her understanding of waiting.
[06:00] Dawn: "Waiting is life. You just keep moving those goalposts. Am I going to live in the wait?"
Despite the challenges, Dawn celebrates the arrival of her four children, emphasizing gratitude and trust in divine timing.
Nature as a Metaphor for Life's Journey
Dawn delves into nature metaphors, particularly the eagle, to illustrate strength and reliance on higher power.
[09:09] Dawn: "The eagle soars by catching the wind, not by exerting its own willpower. Similarly, we find strength by relying on God's provision."
She connects this to the biblical scripture Isaiah 40:31, emphasizing renewal and resilience through faith.
[12:19] Dawn: "The eagle's ability to soar without constant wing movement reminds us to use the resources God provides rather than exhausting ourselves."
Lessons from Ornamental Horticulture
Dawn recounts her college experience studying ornamental horticulture, drawing parallels between plant growth and personal development.
[13:37] Dawn: "The century plant reminds me that God’s timing is impeccable. What seems dormant can suddenly flourish."
She emphasizes the importance of healthy "soil" (community) and continuous nurturing (relationships) for personal growth.
[16:02] Dawn: "Nature reveals truths hidden in plain sight. Seeds must be planted in unseen ways, much like our internal transformations."
The Power of Music in Healing and Connection
Music plays a significant role in Dawn's life, both personally and spiritually. She discusses how music intertwines with nature and fosters emotional healing.
[30:52] Dawn: "Music and nature are beautifully intertwined. The songs of birds and whales are like a universal melody designed to heal."
She shares personal anecdotes about her family's musical legacy and the therapeutic impact of singing and playing instruments.
[33:59] Dawn: "Music affects our internal faith. Singing in front of others can be empowering, turning fear into strength."
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Personal Growth
Dawn narrates a pivotal moment from her teenage years when she overcame stage fright, illustrating the theme of conquering fear through support and faith.
[37:45] Dawn: "I decided to do it afraid. I have to get out of my head and not think about what people think about me."
She reflects on her parents' encouragement and the lasting impact of that experience on her approach to life and parenting.
Infertility Journey and Miraculous Blessings
Dawn shares the emotional rollercoaster of her infertility journey, culminating in a miraculous pregnancy that defied medical expectations.
[45:58] Dawn: "God answered my prayers after 18 years. Holding my first miracle was a profound moment of joy and trust."
She discusses the concept of an overflowing cup from Psalm 23, interpreting it as both a blessing and a manageable 'mess' that signifies divine provision.
[49:41] Dawn: "When we wait on God, we see things revealed that we would have never known otherwise."
Living Authentically During Waiting Seasons
Dawn emphasizes the importance of living fully and authentically while in a season of waiting, rather than feeling confined or isolated.
[52:26] Dawn: "Don't live small while you wait. Show up, live outside your head, and engage with your community."
She encourages embracing the present moment, contributing to others' lives, and maintaining a strong connection with faith and community even amidst personal delays.
Conclusion and Reflections
As the conversation wraps up, Dawn shares a favorite childhood memory, reinforcing the podcast's theme of cherishing outdoor moments and familial bonds.
[59:17] Dawn: "One of my favorite memories was learning to ride a bike at my house, with my family's patience and support."
Jenny and Dawn exchange heartfelt goodbyes, celebrating the book launch and the inspiring dialogue.
[60:04] Dawn: "Thank you for having me on. I'm inspired by you and God bless you and all the people that you're encouraging."
Key Takeaways and Insights
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Perception vs. Reality: Our internal perceptions can significantly influence how we interact with the world, often creating barriers that aren't externally visible.
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Faith in Waiting: Embracing the waiting periods in life can lead to profound personal growth, resilience, and deeper faith.
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Nature as a Teacher: Observing and reflecting on nature provides valuable metaphors and lessons for navigating life's challenges.
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The Healing Power of Music: Music serves as a universal language that heals, connects, and fosters emotional well-being.
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Community and Relationships: Building and nurturing relationships are crucial for personal growth and overcoming adversity.
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Living Authentically: It's essential to live fully and authentically during waiting periods, contributing to others' lives and maintaining a strong connection with one's faith and community.
Notable Quotes
- Dawn Chere Wilkerson:
- [02:35] "When we feel our wounds are exposed, we might believe everyone is judging us, but often, no one even notices."
- [09:09] "The eagle soars by catching the wind, not by exerting its own willpower. Similarly, we find strength by relying on God's provision."
- [13:37] "The century plant reminds me that God’s timing is impeccable. What seems dormant can suddenly flourish."
- [30:52] "Music and nature are beautifully intertwined. The songs of birds and whales are like a universal melody designed to heal."
- [37:45] "I decided to do it afraid. I have to get out of my head and not think about what people think about me."
- [45:58] "God answered my prayers after 18 years. Holding my first miracle was a profound moment of joy and trust."
- [49:41] "When we wait on God, we see things revealed that we would have never known otherwise."
- [52:26] "Don't live small while you wait. Show up, live outside your head, and engage with your community."
- [59:17] "One of my favorite memories was learning to ride a bike at my house, with my family's patience and support."
Conclusion: In this heartfelt episode, Dawn Chere Wilkerson shares her deeply personal journey of waiting, faith, and resilience. Through nature metaphors, music, and honest reflections on her infertility struggle, she inspires listeners to embrace their own waiting seasons with grace, community, and unwavering trust in a higher purpose. Slow Burn emerges not just as a memoir but as a guide for anyone navigating the complexities of waiting and personal growth.