New Perspectives Toward a Better Future
Reporting, essays, and stories on nature, work, wellness, and current events toward a better way forward.
Essays
Strategy
Independent Reporting
Stories + Poems
Featured Article
Letter to the President:
A new vision for prosperity in northern Minnesota
Latest Writings
Why Oversimplifying Sustainable Clothing Does More Harm Than Good
I spent years at New Balance Shoes, where I saw the pride behind the “Made in America” label. It’s a beautiful thing to see and I'm an advocate, but lately I’ve also seen how this label is used to mislead shoppers about quality and sustainability.Sustainable clothing...
The Heart of Winter
As winter deepens, the long, dark nights can feel heavy on the mind and spirit. Arctic explorers who ventured to Earth’s poles knew this challenge well. They understood that staying strong during harsh winters required mental exercise and resilience as much as...
Cotton Kills: Why the Fabric Can Be Dangerous Outdoors
“Cotton kills” is a phrase commonly used in outdoor education and wilderness medicine. While the wording is intentionally blunt, the warning reflects a well-documented risk associated with wearing cotton clothing during outdoor activities, particularly in cold, wet,...
The Outdoor Industry
The "outdoor industry" is interesting because it’s filled with people and businesses that don’t actually care about the outdoors. I’ve noticed a contradiction within the outdoor industry. It’s full of brands and leaders who profit off the idea of the outdoors without...
Interviews + Press
Discover selected interviews and press coverage featuring Nate and his work
Stay Informed
New perspectives on the relationship between people and nature, doing meaningful work, and the events shaping the world around us.
Contact
About Nathan J Baller
Nate is a writer, outdoorsperson, and founder of Abode Outside, a Minnesota-based clothing brand. His writing focuses on finding practical solutions and offering new perspectives on nature, work, wellness, and the events shaping our world.
