Amsive

The Joy of Foraging: Alexis Nikole Nelson on Food, Nature, and Her Montessori Roots

Season 1 | Episode 6

with Nicole Coman and William “Biff” Maier

How does a childhood spent exploring nature shape a lifelong passion? In this episode, Alexis Nikole Nelson—award-winning forager, chef, and social media star—shares how her Montessori education helped nurture her curiosity and independence, ultimately leading to her unique career.

Hosts Biff Maier and Nicole Coman discuss with Alexis:

  • How her Montessori upbringing encouraged hands-on learning and a love of nature
  • The history and cultural significance of foraging, especially in Black and Indigenous communities
  • The intersection of food, environmental education, and social media storytelling
  • Her upcoming cookbook

With humor, insight, and infectious enthusiasm, Alexis brings a fresh perspective on learning, history, and the joy of reconnecting with nature—one edible plant at a time.

Educating the Human Potential is a podcast about optimizing education for a better society, through a Montessori lens. Hosts Nicole Coman, a licensed educational psychologist specializing in school psychology and child development, and Biff Maier, an AMS Living Legacy with decades of experience as a Montessori educator and school leader, engage with experts, educators, parents, and students. Each episode explores strategies to unlock human potential, offering thought-provoking conversations on learning, child development, and the evolving landscape of education.

Alexis Nikole Nelson

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Nicole Coman
Nicole Coman (she/her) is one of the co-hosts of the Educating the Human Potential podcast, produced by AMS. As a licensed educational psychologist, Nicole brings a wealth of expertise in school psychology and child development. Her experience with educational practices, Montessori education, and child development allows for an ever-captivating and insightful dialogue.
William “Biff” Maier
Biff Maier (he/him) is one of the co-hosts of the Educating the Human Potential podcast, produced by AMS. Biff is an AMS Living Legacy, a former Montessori head of school, and a former teacher education program director. These deep-rooted connections with Montessori education, his passion for Montessori principles, and his legacy within AMS make him the perfect addition to our podcast team.