Marching at Dawn to Dissecting Ducks, Here’s How One Camp Transformed My Love for Nature [EP 491]

Today on episode 491 I’m talking with Jennifer Kross and Emilie Hessinger from Ducks Unlimited. Brought to you this week by Ducks Unlimited. Jennifer is an education biologist with Ducks Unlimited in the Great Plains region. Emilie is a Cadet and Peer Leader for the North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade.

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 Brought to you this week by Ducks Unlimited.

Show Notes

From Marching at Dawn to Dissecting Ducks—Here’s How One Camp Transformed My Love for Nature

What Happened:

Let me tell you about the camp experience I never knew I needed. It started with a lump of charcoal—literally. When I walked into the Rolling Plains Bobwhite Brigade camp, they handed me a bag with my name on it and a small chunk of coal inside. Then they told us, “Over the next five days, with heat and pressure, we’re going to turn you into diamonds.”

I laughed nervously and shot my mom a look that said, “What have you signed me up for?” Little did I know, this would be the week I’d learn how to dissect quail, march in unison, and develop leadership skills that would change the way I approach everything.

From the minute my mom left, it was non-stop action. We were learning about habitat conservation, public speaking, and even how to work as a team (spoiler: teamwork while balancing on giant skis is no joke). But the most rewarding part? Seeing how a diverse group of kids with nothing in common except a passion for wildlife came together.

One meal at a time, one group challenge at a time, we bonded. By the end of the week, we weren’t just cadets—we were a team. And yes, my group won the marching competition. Not to brag or anything.

Principle:

What I learned at camp is something everyone should know: real change happens when we step out of our comfort zones. Whether it’s speaking up, connecting with others, or learning to be okay with being a little different, every step forward adds up. Conservation isn’t just about saving du