Sounds of Sleeping Bear Dunes: Tranquility Interrupted on Otter Creek Artwork

Nature Is My Jam

If you’re like me, then you love the sounds of nature. From the dawn chorus of birds that rings in the start of another day to the howl of coyotes in the dark of night, these sounds ignite curiosity, excitement and a deep appreciation for our planet. You’re listening to Nature is my Jam, a show that explores the rich kaleidoscope of nature sounds and the art of capturing pristine audio in remote wilderness locations. Hello. I’m Darrin and I document the hidden corners of the world through sound, filmmaking, and photography. Each week, I will take you along with me as I create natural soundscapes. We will discuss how I record these sounds, but the star of each show will be nature itself. A high-quality audio immersion providing a brief respite from your hectic day. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode and I look forward to continuing this conversation with you soon.

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Nature Is My Jam

Sounds of Sleeping Bear Dunes: Tranquility Interrupted on Otter Creek

November 17, 2022 • Darrin Wassom • Season 1 • Episode 24

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Welcome to episode 24 of the Nature is my Jam podcast! As always, I’m happy to see you again and can’t wait to share this episode with you. This episode is a continuation of the recording I did last week at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. What intrigues me most about this part of the night is how quiet it can get after periods of intense activity. The beavers have moved to other parts of the creek or simply went back to their lodge. As the wind picks up, we hear some crickets and blowing leaves. There is an occasional stirring of some geese and an occasional creak from an old tree. It’s a pure joy to sit back and take it in. It reminds me of sitting on the back porch during a thunderstorm.

I have been asked how often I listen to my own recordings or if I ever listen to every episode. I do. It is therapy for me and a chance to let my brain slow down and take in the wonders of the world. A time to reflect and be grateful for the life I’m so fortunate to enjoy. It is also a time to think about future episode and yes, a time to be critical of what I could do better going forward. And as quickly as those thoughts enter my consciousness and the tranquility that I am experiencing, they get interrupted by, well, the ebb and flow of life. Just like this episode, which I like to call, ‘Tranquility Interrupted’.

I think it’s okay to have interruptions in our life and there is a balance that is needed. Okay, this might be less about the podcast and just a rule of thumb for life, but I believe we need quiet spaces just as we need loud spaces. Chaotic spaces full of noise, energy and uncertainty give us a deeper appreciation for the relative solitude and a chance for introspection. I think this recording allows plenty of space to breathe, followed by some intense activity and then a few minutes of quiet to round out your listening experience. I’m always biased, but I think this is an exception recording to listen to with headphones.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and hope you enjoy this episode. Thanks again for your continued support!

Recording Summary: