Nat Theo Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible

Latest Episodes:

Is a Toadstool Mushroom Poisonous? Lesson 147 Sep 29, 2026

Show notes

Toadstool mushrooms pop up in fairy tales and folklore and often come with a warning: “Don’t touch!” But are toadstools poisonous? And why do they appear like magic after rain? Unravel the marvels of mushrooms and discover how they appear not by magic but by design.

Here’s our trail map:

Why Do Mushrooms Appear After Rain?
How Do Mushrooms Spread?
Are Toadstool Mushrooms Poisonous?
How Do Mushrooms Remind Us That God is Always Near?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-mushrooms-appear-after-rain/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

What Lives In A Pile Of Leaves? https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f8e5415c-9896-4c3a-8306-b7fe74be76a6/
Are Mushrooms Aliens? And Does Fungus Know How to Code?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b5b86cc0-358b-4136-bc79-643bd15aff9b/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Books & Curriculum by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Mushroom Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-mushrooms-appear-after-rain/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“‘I am a God who is near,’ says the Lord.

‘I am also a God who is far away.

No one can hide

where I cannot see him,’ says the Lord.

“I fill all of heaven and earth,’ says the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:23-24 (NCV)

“Where can I go to get away from your Spirit?

Where can I run from you?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there.

If I lie down in the grave, you are there.

If I rise with the sun in the east

and settle in the west beyond the sea,

even there you would guide me.

With your right hand you would hold me.” Psalm 139:7-10 (NCV)

“So don’t worry, because I am with you.

Don’t be afraid, because I am your God.

I will make you strong and will help you;

I will support you with my right hand that saves you.” Isaiah 41:10 (NCV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Fungus: A living thing that is not a plant or an animal. Fungi include mushrooms, molds, and yeasts.
Hypha: A single tiny, threadlike strand that makes up the main body of a fungus.
Hyphae: Many tiny, threadlike strands that make up the main body of a fungus. They grow through soil, wood, or other material.
Mycelial Network: The web of tiny fungal threads (hyphae) that grows through soil, wood, or other material and absorbs nutrients.
Mushroom: The fruiting body of a fungus.
Spores: Tiny reproductive cells that mushrooms release to grow new fungi.
Gills: The thin, flat structures found underneath the caps of many mushrooms. They produce and release spores.
Fly Agaric (Amanita Muscaria): Poisonous mushrooms that usually have bright red or orange caps dotted with raised white patches, along with white gills and a pale stem.
Omnipresent: Being present everywhere at the same time.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

Mentioned in this episode:

Order where Wonder Leads & Made to Marvel and receive a free sticker pack and hand-written note from Eryn! https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/bundle

Is the Frilled Lizard a Real Dragon? Lesson 146 Sep 22, 2026

Show notes

The frilled lizard is often called a dragon, but did God make real dragons? Does this curious reptile that runs on two legs and climbs trees actually spit venom? Discover how this lizard’s crazy neck collar reminds us of Gideon’s army in the Bible and encourages us to be mighty warriors.

Here’s our trail map:

Is the Frilled Lizard a Real Dragon?
Are Frilled Lizards Venomous?
Why Does a Frilled Lizard Have a Frill?
How Does a Frilled Lizard Remind Us of Gideon’s Army?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-frilled-lizards-have-a-frill/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

What Is the Most Venomous Snake?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2f9c3f05-388e-443d-a23f-03980c46de8f/
Were All Dinosaurs Big? With Ken Ham: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/3b67b81a-ceac-4fa1-85cf-588a32f23a30/
What Is The Difference Between A Turtle And Tortoise?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/dccb26a1-9dde-498f-8d6d-573f1478e243/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Dragon books by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=dragons
Books & Curriculum by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Save half off on CTCMath: https://payments.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool-discount?tr_id=NPT
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Frilled Lizard Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-frilled-lizards-have-a-frill/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“The angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and said, ‘The Lord is with you, mighty warrior!’” Judges 6:12 (NCV)

“The Lord turned to Gideon and said, ‘Go with your strength and save Israel from the Midianites. I am the one who is sending you.’

But Gideon answered, ‘Lord, how can I save Israel? My family group is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least important member of my family.’

The Lord answered him, ‘I will be with you. It will seem as if the Midianites you are fighting are only one man.’” Judges 6:14-16 (NCV)

“Then the Lord said to Gideon, ‘You have too many men to defeat the Midianites. I don’t want the Israelites to brag that they saved themselves.’” Judges 7:2 (NCV)

“So what should we say about this? If God is for us, no one can defeat us.” Romans 8:31 (NCV)

“So what should we say about this? If God is for us, no one can defeat us. 32 He did not spare his own Son but gave him for us all. So with Jesus, God will surely give us all things.” Romans 8:31-32 (NCV)

“Everyone who is a child of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world—our faith. So the one who conquers the world is the person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” 1 John 5:4-5 (NCV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Reptile: Cold-blooded vertebrates with dry, scaly skin including lizards, snakes, turtles and tortoises, alligators, crocodiles, and caiman.
Agamidae: A family of lizards that includes frilled dragons, bearded dragons, and many other “dragon” lizards. Most have strong legs, long tails, and features such as crests, spines, frills, or colorful throat patches.
Bipedal Running: Running on two legs instead of four.
Arboreal: Living in trees or spending much of life in trees.
Deimatic Display: A sudden behavior an animal uses to scare an enemy. It might puff up, show bright colors, hiss, or open part of its body to look bigger and more dangerous.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

Mentioned in this episode:

Order Where Wonder Leads: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/Wonder Bundle both of Eryn's new books to save and get a free gift: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/bundle

Wait…Strawberries Aren’t Really Berries?! Answering Nature Questions From Kids Sep 17, 2026

Show notes

From the surprising truth about strawberries to color-changing leaves, slow turtles, stinging wasps, the massive sun, and ant homes, this episode is packed with curious questions and surprising answers that showcase God's wisdom and glory.

Order Eryn’s new books! Bundle and receive free stickers and a hand-written note from Eryn! https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/bundle

Explore Our Bible & Nature Curriculum and Resources: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/Wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Lessons mentioned in this episode:

Why And How Do Leaves Change Colors?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/38cf2f29-1a36-4c54-81ba-becb473615a2/
How Do Water, Light, and Air Build Plants?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/01e9495f-489d-46cf-9c58-e0be1b6084f3/
What Is The Difference Between A Turtle And Tortoise?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/dccb26a1-9dde-498f-8d6d-573f1478e243/
How Hot Is the Sun?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a8b48d2c-aa2c-46d9-a224-3c34a07fc1ff/

How Do Redwood Trees Grow So Tall? Lesson 145 Sep 15, 2026

Show notes

How does a redwood tree grow to be taller than the Statue of Liberty? Discover the secrets of how the tallest tree in the world grows without toppling over, and what surprising creatures live at the top of a redwood tree.

Here’s our trail map:

What Is the Difference Between a Redwood and Sequoia Tree?
How Do Redwood Trees Grow So Tall?
What Lives In a Redwood Tree?
How Do Redwood Trees Help Us Practice Hospitality?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/how-do-redwood-trees-grow-so-tall/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Do Water, Light, and Air Build Plants?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/01e9495f-489d-46cf-9c58-e0be1b6084f3/
Why Do Axolotls Never Grow Up? (Learn about salamanders): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/72d70dc4-7555-4eab-962f-e1adf4659c10/
Do Trees Have Friends and Can They Talk to Each Other?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2d40ff13-97f1-4384-8249-89a6fe7cbe6f/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

America’s Story History Curriculum: https://www.masterbooks.com/americas-story-series
Books & Curriculum by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Redwood Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/how-do-redwood-trees-grow-so-tall/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“Two people are better than one,

because they get more done by working together.

If one falls down,

the other can help him up.

But it is bad for the person who is alone and falls,

because no one is there to help.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NCV)

“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 (NIV)

“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:9 (NIV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Coniferous Tree: A tree that produces cones and usually has needles or scale-like leaves instead of broad, flat leaves.
Seed Cone: The cone on a coniferous tree that contains and protects the tree’s seeds. When the cone is mature, its scales open and release the seeds.
Tree Canopy: The upper layer of a tree made up of its branches and leaves.
Ecosystem: A community of living things—such as plants, animals, and fungi—and the nonliving parts of their environment, such as water, air, soil, and sunlight, all interacting together.
Arboreal: Living in trees or spending much of life in trees.
Hospitality: Warmly welcoming and caring for others by sharing your time, home, food, or help.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pre-order Where Wonder Leads: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder

Are Bald Eagles Really Bald? Lesson 144 Sep 08, 2026

Show notes

What does it mean to have “eagle eyes”? Discover how God designed fuzzy baby eagles to grow five times in size during their first week after hatching, and how God helps us grow in faith.

Here’s our trail map:

Are Bald Eagles Bald?
Are Bald Eagles Born With White Heads?
How Far Can a Bald Eagle See?
How Does God Help Us Grow Up?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/are-bald-eagles-really-bald/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Fast Is a Peregrine Falcon? Lesson 132: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/17a0dbe5-7f64-44e6-8017-fae682ab0090/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

America’s Story History Curriculum: https://www.masterbooks.com/americas-story-series
Books & Curriculum by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Bald Eagle Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/are-bald-eagles-really-bald/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“Jesus has the power of God, by which he has given us everything we need to live and to serve God. We have these things because we know him. Jesus called us by his glory and goodness.” 2 Peter 1:3 (NCV)

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Glory be to him now and forever! Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 (NCV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Eaglet: Baby eagle.
Wingercizing: A playful term for a baby bird’s practice flapping which helps them develop muscles and prepare for flight.
Opportunistic Carnivore: An animal that hunts or eats whatever meat is easiest to find, catch, or take at the moment.
Cone Cell: A special type of cell in an eye that helps see in color and detail.
Tetrachromat: An animal that has four types of color-seeing cells in its eyes.
Fovea: A small area in the eye where vision is sharpest because it is packed with cone cells.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

How Do Cheetahs Run So Fast? Lesson 143 Sep 01, 2026

Show notes

How did God engineer cheetahs for super speed? Discover how a cheetah’s bendy backbone, super boost muscles, balancing tail, and cleat-like feet help it snag its next meal on the savannah. And learn how we are called to run life’s race well—not with super speed, but with enduring faithfulness.

Here’s our trail map:

Can Cheetahs Roar?
Why Do Cheetahs Have Spots?
How Do Cheetahs Run So Fast?
How Can We Run Life’s Race Well?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/can-cheetahs-roar/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Sharp Are a Lion's Teeth? Lesson 103: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/adaddfb6-0ec4-47f7-a0dc-61ef560784c7/
Can Mountain Lions Roar? Episode 22: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/efdc4ae6-27ef-46c9-8e52-df40d580c847/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Apologia’s Zoology 3 Land Animals Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-3-course-set/
Explore all of Apologia’s Zoology courses: https://www.apologia.com/subject/science/zoology
Discover Apologia’s Christ-centered and award-winning curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/
Try CTCMath FREE and get half off: https://payments.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool-discount?tr_id=NPT
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Cheetah Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/can-cheetahs-roar/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1 (NLT)

“All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. 1 Corinthians 9:25-26 (NLT)

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 (NLT)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Panthera: A genus or category of wild cats that roar including tigers, lions, panthers, leopards, and snow leopards.
Acinonyx: A genus or category of cats including only cheetahs.
Felinae: The cat subfamily that includes many small wild cats, domestic cats, and a few larger cats like cheetahs and cougars.
Malar stripes: Dark tear-like markings on a cheetah’s face that run from the eyes to the mouth and may help reduce sun glare while hunting.
Fast-twitch Muscle Fibers: Muscle cells designed for rapid, explosive, and powerful bursts of energy.

Cheetah vocalization credit: Smirnova D, Volodin I, Demina T, Volodina E, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

What Is the Aurora Borealis? Lesson 142 Aug 25, 2026

Show notes

Have you ever seen bright colors dancing across the night sky? What causes auroras, or the “Northern Lights”? Discover how God’s brilliant design of Earth’s atmosphere protects us from solar wind while creating a dazzling light show for us to marvel at.

Here’s our trail map:

What Is Solar Wind?
How Does Solar Wind Make the Auroras?
Why Are Auroras Different Colors?
How Can God Bring Beauty From Life’s Storms?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/what-is-the-aurora-borealis/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Hot Is the Sun? Lesson 112: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a8b48d2c-aa2c-46d9-a224-3c34a07fc1ff/
What Is Earth's Atmosphere For? https://player.captivate.fm/episode/be61b270-5a47-4fd0-ae15-d140867738aa/
What Is Light? Lesson 109: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4eb19e42-31c5-4143-8e42-a5a0eb63daed/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Try CTCMath FREE and get half off: https://payments.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool-discount?tr_id=NPT
Big Book of Earth & Sky (with chart): https://www.masterbooks.com/big-book-of-earth-sky-panel
God's Design for Heaven & Earth Set: https://www.masterbooks.com/gods-design-for-heaven-earth-set-mb-edition
Astronomy books from a Biblical worldview: https://www.masterbooks.com/apologetics/astronomy
Books, curriculum, and resources by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Explore Bible-based nature study with Nat Theo curriculum: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Aurora Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/what-is-the-aurora-borealis/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Psalm 19:1 (NIV)

“The Lord is good,

giving protection in times of trouble.

He knows who trusts in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NCV)

“The men were amazed and said, ‘What kind of man is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!’” Matthew 8:27 (NCV)

“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV)

“We have small troubles for a while now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles.” 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NCV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Solar Wind: A steady stream of tiny charged particles flowing out from the sun into space.
Particle: A tiny piece of matter.
Coronal Mass Ejection (CME): A huge burst of gas and charged particles that blasts away from the sun into space.
Magnetosphere: The region around Earth where Earth’s magnetic field reaches into space and helps protect our planet.
Auroras: Colorful lights that glow in the sky near Earth’s poles.
Aurora Borealis: Auroras that happen near the north pole and can be seen from areas in the northern hemisphere.
Aurora Australis: Auroras that happen near the south pole and can be seen from areas in the southern hemisphere.
Aurora Ribboning: When an aurora forms long, wavy bands of light that look like glowing ribbons or curtains in the sky.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

What’s It Like to Be Stuck in Space? Astronaut Wilmore Answers Space Questions From Kids Aug 19, 2026

Show notes

What would you do if you left Earth expecting to be gone for 8 days… and didn’t come home for 9½ months? Today on Nat Theo, astronaut Captain Wilmore tells us what happened when five thrusters failed as his spacecraft approached the International Space Station—and how his faith gave him peace and contentment when the mission changed completely. Captain Wilmore also answers space travel questions from kids on this very special episode!

Episode Links:

Captain Wilmore’s website: https://www.butchwilmore.com/
Stuck in Space book: https://www.butchwilmore.com/stuck-in-space-book

Sponsor Link:

Enjoy half off CTCMath!: https://payments.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool-discount?tr_id=NPT

Explore Our Bible & Nature Curriculum and Resources: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

Why Do Stars Twinkle? Lesson 141 Aug 18, 2026

Show notes

Have you ever looked up at a stunning night sky and wondered, “What is a star?” Discover what stars are made of, how big they are, what happens when a star explodes, and how God created stars to help humans and creatures on Earth.

Here’s our trail map:

Why Do Stars Twinkle?
What Is a Black Hole?
What Are Star Constellations?
How Can We Find Our Way Through God’s Word?

Download this lesson’s free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-stars-twinkle/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Hot Is the Sun? Lesson 112: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a8b48d2c-aa2c-46d9-a224-3c34a07fc1ff/
Why Does the Moon Change Shape? Lesson 139: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c94554ef-f476-4802-b897-6bebe66eceeb/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Big Book of Earth & Sky (with chart): https://www.masterbooks.com/big-book-of-earth-sky-panel
God's Design for Heaven & Earth Set: https://www.masterbooks.com/gods-design-for-heaven-earth-set-mb-edition
Astronomy books from a Biblical worldview: https://www.masterbooks.com/apologetics/astronomy
Books, curriculum, and resources by Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/
Homeschool simply, inexpensively, and enjoyably with the Homeschool Made Simple podcast: homeschoolmadesimple.net
“Nature Study Made Simple” with Eryn Lynum on the Homeschool Made Simple podcast: https://homeschoolmadesimple.net/nature-study-made-simple-episode-252/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
Free Star Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-do-stars-twinkle/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“The sky was made at the Lord’s command.

By the breath from his mouth, he made all the stars.” Psalm 33:6 (NCV)

“He counts the stars

and names each one.” Psalm 147:4 (NCV)

“Lord, your word is everlasting;

it continues forever in heaven.” Psalm 119:89 (NCV)

“When you look up at the sky, you see the sun, moon, and stars, and everything in the sky. But don’t bow down and worship them, because the Lord your God has made these things for all people everywhere.” Deuteronomy 4:19 (NCV)

“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” Joshua 1:8 (NLT)

“Your word is like a lamp for my feet

and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NCV)

“The Lord says, ‘I will make you wise and show you where to go.

I will guide you and watch over you.’” Psalm 32:8 (NCV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Star: A huge, glowing ball of hot gas in space that gives off its own light and heat.
Light-year: The distance light travels in one year.
Black Hole: A place in space where gravity is so strong that nothing can escape—not even light. Black holes can be caused by exploding stars.
Constellation: An official area of the night sky. Astronomers have divided the sky into 88 official constellations.
Asterism: A familiar star shape or pattern that people notice in the sky, but it is not always an official constellation.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

What Is a Shooting Star? Lesson 140 Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

Have you ever seen a shooting star? These bright flashes of light across the night sky may have “star” in their name, but they are not a star at all! Unlock the mysteries of meteors and discover how God made us with curious minds to discover and marvel at all he’s made—both on Earth and in space!

Here’s our trail map:

What Is a Comet?
What Is a Shooting Star?
How Is a Meteor Different From a Meteorite?
Why Does God Place Mysteries in Nature?

This lesson’s Activity Guide is free for everyone! Download it here: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/what-is-a-shooting-star/

Related Lessons to listen to next:

How Hot Is the Sun? Lesson 112: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a8b48d2c-aa2c-46d9-a224-3c34a07fc1ff/
Why Does the Moon Change Shape? Lesson 139: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c94554ef-f476-4802-b897-6bebe66eceeb/
What Is Earth's Atmosphere For?: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/be61b270-5a47-4fd0-ae15-d140867738aa/

Eryn's Books:

Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonder
Made to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvel
The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891
Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615
936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782

Episode Links:

Exploring Creation with Astronomy: https://www.apologia.com/shop/astronomy-course-set
Save 25% during Apologia’s sitewide summer sale through August 31, 2026: https://www.apologia.com/
Homeschool simply, inexpensively, and enjoyably with the Homeschool Made Simple podcast: homeschoolmadesimple.net
“Nature Study Made Simple” with Eryn Lynum on the Homeschool Made Simple podcast: https://homeschoolmadesimple.net/nature-study-made-simple-episode-252/
Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/member
Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/club
This lesson’s Activity Guide is free for everyone! Download it here: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/what-is-a-shooting-star/
Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/ask

Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:

“By wisdom the Lord founded the earth;

by understanding he created the heavens.” Proverbs 3:19 (NLT)

“God is honored for what he keeps secret.

Kings are honored for what they can discover.” Proverbs 25:2 (NCV)

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)

Terms Learned in This Episode:

Comet: A natural object in space made from rock, dust, and ice.
Aphelion: The point in an object’s orbit when it is farthest from the Sun.
Perihelion: The point in an object’s orbit when it is closest to the Sun.
Sublimation: When a solid changes straight into a gas without becoming a liquid first.
Coma: A bright cloud of dust and gas surrounding and trailing after a comet’s center.
Earth’s Atmosphere: The layer of gasses that protects Earth from the sun’s harsh rays and from debris in space.
Sporadic Meteor: A random meteor that does not belong to a known meteor shower.
Meteor Shower: When many meteors appear in the sky around the same time as Earth travels through a comet’s dusty path.
Meteorite: A piece of space rock or metal that survives the trip through Earth’s atmosphere and lands on the ground.
Ablate: To wear away or burn away from the surface.

This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

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