In the season premiere of That Quirky Bird Girl, I explore what three incredible birds — the early-mating American Woodcock, the curious juvenile Red-bellied Sapsucker, and the clever Corvid family — have taught me about navigating business, creativity, and self-growth.
From showing up before you feel ready, to valuing learning over comparison, to keeping a wide perspective when things get tough, these birds model what it means to adapt, evolve, and lead with resilience.
As I continue to grow my brand and community, I’m learning that progress doesn’t always look like a straight flight path — sometimes it’s a looping migration, a pause to rest, or a brave detour toward something new.
🪶 Tune in for a heart-centered episode about embracing change, trusting your instincts, and finding your own rhythm in a world that often demands speed and certainty.
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In this episode, I’m getting a little more personal. I open up about some of the toughest challenges I’ve faced — and how, somehow, birds always found a way to guide me through them.
From the boldness of Blue Jays to the quiet persistence of American Robins, these birds became my teachers, my mirrors, and my reminders that growth isn’t always graceful, but it’s always worth it.
They helped me rebuild when I thought I had nothing left to give. They showed me that curiosity, joy, and even a little silliness can exist right alongside healing.
This episode is a love letter to resilience, to change, and to finding your wings again — no matter how many times you’ve fallen.
Tune in for a story about transformation, self-belief, and the unexpected magic of the natural world that’s always trying to show us how to soar.
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Hi there chirper or quirkster!!
In this (reluctantly: heartwarming) episode, I’m sharing how birds have been my greatest teachers, motivators, mentors, and mirrors through every major chapter of my life. From American Robins reminding me to stay curious, to Steller’s Jays showing me the power of using my voice, birds have guided me through fear, change, and EVEN the moments when I doubted my own potential (????!).
I talk about how birds helped me rebuild my confidence after moving to NYC, the ways they continue to shape my creative journey as That Quirky Bird Girl, and how every bird — from the bold Blue Jay to the soaring Osprey — has something to teach us about chasing our dreams and staying true to ourselves.
This episode is part storytime // part reflection, and 100% a love letter to the birds that helped me become who I am today.
Check out...- Birds that inspired my confidence and creativity
- The connection between nature, healing, and personal growth
- Why birds are at the heart of my work, my mission, and my joy
Listen now and rediscover your own wings!!
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZPFind all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
In this episode, I sit down with Nick Bayard, Executive Director of BirdNote, the beloved nonprofit radio program that has reached over 10 million listeners nationwide with stories that spark wonder and action for our lovely birds.
Nick shares his journey from being a peacekeeper in Paraguay to leading a non-profit that uniquely blends education, storytelling, and even humor to bring bird conservation into people’s daily lives. We reflect on how his time in the Peace Corps shaped his understanding of community, and why humor and authenticity are such powerful tools for connection (cross-linguistically, because yes, he speaks Guarani'!!).
Together, we dive into the ways BirdNote inspires people to take meaningful steps for birds, and how audience engagement and fundraising are essential to sustaining BirdNote's vital mission.
✨Want to support BirdNote? ✨ On October 29th, they’re hosting a special event (VIRTUALLY!!!) to raise funds that help keep their programming streaming for free to national radio stations. Don’t miss the chance to uplift the work of a nonprofit that’s changing the way millions of people see and care for our birds.
Secure your spot here: https://www.birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2025/10/reasons-celebrate-joy-filled-auction-conversation-j-drew-lanham
Tune in to BirdNote daily hear how storytelling, community, and a little quirkiness can make the world a better place for both birds and people.
birdnote.org
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZPFind all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
After a whirlwind of travels, I’m back in New York City and diving headfirst into creating again — and what better place to start than Central Park? 🌳
In this episode, I take you on a joyful, quirky chat in the park, sharing the bird species that call it home (both native and non-native), what makes them unique, and why birdwatching in an urban environment matters more than we realize. From community bird tours to the surprising lack of female birds represented in merchandise (yes, really!), we explore how connecting with birds also connects us to each other.
This episode is an invitation to slow down with me, look up, and rediscover the magic of nature in the city.
Want to join me in person? Check out my upcoming tours here: https://luma.com/thatquirkybirdgirl
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Central Park: Birdwatching Introduction
05:44 The Colorful World of Native Birds
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZPFind all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
In this episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, Steph (I) sit down with Christine Mott, animal law attorney, advocate, and author of Free Bird. Together, we dive into the incredible true story of Flaco the owl, whose escape from the Central Park Zoo captured hearts everywhere, and the powerful message his journey holds about resilience, freedom, and compassion.
Christine shares how her passion for storytelling and her work in animal law come together to inspire empathy, encourage young readers, and push for a kinder world for animals. This episode is part bird lore, part advocacy, and a whole lot of heart.✨ Learn more about Christine’s work here: https://www.christinemott.com/Grab a copy of Free Bird on Amazon: https://lanternpm.org/book/free-bird/
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Hi chirpers and quirksters — it’s Steph, That Quirky Bird Girl! This episode is a cozy one, recorded right from my bed in my PJs, fresh off the highs of a NYC bird tour!!
I’m diving into how birds like the American Robin, Blue Jay, Osprey, and Red-tailed Hawk have each taught me to push past doubt and take brave steps forward... even when I questioned myself at every turn.
I am also so excited to share that our bird tours are expanding! We’ll be exploring the vibrant landscapes of San Francisco and Seattle, where unforgettable birds (and community moments!) are waiting for us. Whether you’re brand-new to birding or already a seasoned birder, these tours are all about connection, courage, and celebration.
Tune in for stories, lessons, and a reminder that if a little bird can spark big change, maybe we can too. 💛
San Francisco tour on September 13th at 11am: https://lu.ma/5szgr7xd
Seattle tour on September 20th at 11am: https://lu.ma/xyxx2ets
Join the that quirky bird girl discord here: https://discord.gg/8dU2zdXzRv
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZPFind all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
In this high-energy, bird-filled episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, I sit down with Brandon — a long-time Angry Birds fan and creator — to dive deep into the colorful, chaotic, and community-driven world of one of the most iconic bird franchises ever.
We chat about Brandon’s journey from discovering Angry Birds back in 2011 to creating his own YouTube content in 2016, and how Rovio has kept the fandom alive by listening to fans and evolving the brand across games, movies, and TV shows.
From the unique personalities of Red and Bomb to the family dynamic that keeps fans coming back, Brandon shares how Angry Birds isn’t just about flinging birds at pigs — it’s about connection, collaboration, and finding your flock.
🎯 Part 1 of our Angry Birds deep dive — stay tuned for more!
🛍️ Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZP📲 Find all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
You can follow Brandon's channel here: http://www.youtube.com/@BlueJimmie48Fan
Hi friend — I’m Steph, That Quirky Bird Girl. If you’re new here, I’m so glad you landed in my little corner of the internet. I talk birds, mental health, NYC life, travel, and navigating the world as an AuDHD (Autistic + ADHD) creator.
This episode is the most personal I’ve ever shared. For the first time, I open up about my divorce — the pain of ending a 10-year relationship, what it meant to leave, and how I chose myself by moving to New York City at the exact same time I chose to start over.
Divorce is messy. It’s complicated. It’s heartbreaking. As someone who grew up in a divorced family, I never imagined it would be part of my own story. But here we are, and I want to tell you what I’ve learned on the other side of breaking.
If you’re in the thick of something hard — a divorce, a breakup, a deep reckoning with your identity — I want you to know you are not alone. My journey didn’t end with heartbreak. It led me to birds, to self-love, to thousands of chirpers and quirksters who remind me every day that healing is possible.
This podcast and this space have given me room to breathe, grieve, and grow. Thank you for listening. Thank you for being here.
🕊️ There is beauty on the other side of the breaking. Even if you have to find it one bird at a time (just like I did!).
~
💛 Let’s keep healing together. Subscribe + share if this episode speaks to you.
Listen to more episodes here!
Grab your limited edition pin here :)Connect with me here!
Hi there my quirky bird people --
This is a later in the week podcast episode (thank you for the patience!!) ALL ABOUT building community...An endeavor that I have fallen completely head over heals in love with. I have spent the past 6 months honing in on my community nurturing and I finally feel ready to talk about what the journey behind the scenes has looked like AND how your can replicate it around your interests...even if they are not around birds!
I hope you enjoy this episode and stay tuned for more about my travels
Lova ya!
Steph
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZPFind all my other content, links, and lives here:https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
Hi my chirpsters and quirksters!!
I hope your summer is as sun shiny as you are! This episode is all about exploring birds in the great state of California -- San Francisco! Along the way we chat Common Ravens (and their tails!), Chestnut Backed Chickadees, and House Finches!
Be sure to follow and subscribe (on YouTube!) -- I'm heading to Australia before the end of the year and will be documenting every moment of it. See ya there!
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here!!Find all my other content, links, and lives here.
Hi Chirpsters — it’s your girl, Steph!
In this episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, we’re back with Season 3, Episode 2 and this one is all about community. I’m diving into how birds have helped me build real-life friendships, deepen connections, and find people who get it, people who get me.
We talk about how showing up in bird spaces (awkwardly or not!!!) has helped me grow my network in a way that doesn’t feel scary or transactional — it feels real, grounded, and joyful.
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to turn shared interests (like birding!) into lasting, nourishing relationships, this one’s for you 🐦
As always, thank you for listening, and I’d love to hear from you — drop a comment, tell me what you want to hear next, and come hang on TikTok Live!
🛍️ Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here:
https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZP
📲 Find all my other content, links, and lives here:
https://linktr.ee/learnaboutbirds
Hi chirpsters -- it's your girl, Steph! In this episode of that quirky bird girl, we launch into the THIRD SEASON with a few anecdotes about birds that have quite literally made all of the difference for me.
I chat about the American robins that taught me to stim, Blue jays that released me from obsession with Cinderella's love story, and the curiosity of a Gray Catbird.
As an auDHDer, the odds have often felt stacked against me -- but this is my breaking free! Birds helped me and continue to help me.
Hope you enjoy! Comment what you want to hear next :)
Love y'all and hope to see you on my next live stream over on TikTok!
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Hi everyone!!! It's your favorite bird creator and chirper, Steph! This week, I am joined by the lovely Monica who is the Founder of the Urban Bird Collective. UBC is an organization that is dedicated to centering bipoc and queer folks in their birding experiences and outings.
This Pride month, centering voices -- particularly of color -- has been a primary goal of mine and I am so grateful to Monica for sharing with us just how UBC has turned this mission into life. We chat spark birds, queer joy, importance of celebration, and lessons learned along the way.
For those of you watching the video, you miiiiiight notice that I trickled in a few Minnesotan birds -- well, that will be a theme moving forward. Comment a state or country that you want me to do next in a podcast episode :) Stay tuned for more!
See ya next week for another action packed episode -- love ya! BYEEEEE
If you want to check out UBC, this is their website: https://urbanbirdcollective.org/
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here: https://square.link/u/YK7XiuV8
Welcome to the very first episode of something a little different. In this pilot adventure of Chirpchasing Banter with Steph — yes, you heard that right (!!!!)— I take this podcast out of the studio and into the field, literally, for a walk through nature with author, birder, and all-around brilliant human, Steve Burrows.
Steve and I go chirpchasing together — not just spotting birds, but slowing down, noticing the little things, and letting the natural world guide our conversation. We talk about birds, yes, but also about the why behind birds the joy in moving slowly, and how birds have inspired Steve’s incredible writing — from A Siege of Bitterns to the upcoming A Deceit of Lapwings.
This isn’t just a podcast episode. It’s a glimpse into a bigger dream — of turning conversations like this into something visual, something present, something wild. The start of something new. The day That Quirky Bird Girl hit the trail...
🪶 Learn more about Steve’s work at steveburrows.org
🎙️ And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future walks, guests, and wild moments.
Now grab your binoculars — or don’t — and come chirpchase with us.
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZP
In this special start-of-the-month episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, I’m embracing all of me — my queerness, my autism, and my deep love for birds — and kicking off a month of celebration, softness, and honesty.
This one’s personal. I talk about what it’s taken to get here — to feel safe enough to say out loud that I’m queer, that I’m autistic, and that I deserve to feel whole without tucking parts of myself away. Birds, as always, are my companions on this journey, and in this episode I highlight some of the most brilliantly queer birds I’ll be celebrating this month — starting with barn swallows and a look at sexual dimorphism through a queer lens.
If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between parts of yourself… this episode is for you. You deserve to be every version of you. All at once.
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZP
In this globe-hopping episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, I’m back with one of my favorite returning guests — the incredible Steve Burrows! 🐦✈️ Steve is the author of the Birder Murder Mystery series and a passionate traveler whose chirpchasing adventures have taken him far beyond the pages of his novels.
This time, we’re talking all about the birds of Colombia, India, and Canada — three wildly different but equally magical places for wildlife. Steve shares some of his favorite bird encounters, the importance of preserving biodiversity, and how exploring nature through a global lens deepens our understanding of the world and ourselves.
We also talk about his exciting upcoming book, A Deceit of Lapwings, and how birds continue to inspire both his storytelling and his worldview.
🪶 Learn more about Steve and his writing at steveburrows.org
Order your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLNBR88D654P9/checkout/ACJQVI63WDTQK7RXNTQ7DGZP
In this laugh-filled episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, I take a stroll through the iconic Ramble in Central Park with my friend and NYC comedian Steve Cohen. 🎤🐦 We chat about the birds we see (and wish we’d seen), the thrill of exploring New York’s green heart, and Steve’s impressive knowledge of both the park and the punchline.
Steve shares updates on his latest creative projects, including his new TikTok show, and brings the kind of humor that makes chirpchasing even more joyful (yes, even when the birds are playing hard to get). We talk curiosity, comedy, city wildlife, and how magical it feels to share nature with someone who really gets it.
Enjoy Central Park through our lens and comment your favorite bird on this episode...I have an exciting new series coming for season 3!
TikTok: @Stevecohenfun
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In this very special follow-up episode of That Quirky Bird Girl, I’m joined once again by the brilliant and ever-curious Steve Burrows who is an award-winning author of the Birder Murder Mystery series. This time we dive deep into something that left me wide-eyed: his wild, wonder-filled birding adventures through South America and all the way to Antarctica.
We talk about the thrill of seeing species in their natural habitats, the challenges (and beauty) of traveling to remote places. From the lush Amazon canopy to icy penguin-packed shores, this episode is a passport to inspiration.
If you’ve ever dreamed of birding beyond your backyard or letting curiosity take you somewhere totally unexpected, you’re going to love this chat.
Learn more about Steve’s writing and travels at steveburrows.org
And if you’re a Lapwing lover like me, keep your eyes peeled for his upcoming book A Deceit of Lapwings!
Preorder your limited edition That Quirky Bird Girl pin here: https://square.link/u/YK7XiuV8
In this cozy and curious conversation, I sit down with Jamey Stegmaier, co-founder of Stonemaier Games and author of The Crowdfunder's Strategy Guide, to chat about something that means a lot to both of us: community. Jamie shares how his love for creating games is deeply rooted in connection, collaboration, and curiosity.
We dive into his journey and the beauty of bringing people together. And yes, we talk all things Wingspan, Wormspan, and the upcoming Finspan (hello, sea creature lovers!).
Jamey isn’t just part of the team behind one of the most beloved bird-themed games of all time, he’s also a kind, thoughtful human whose love for people shines through. I loved learning more about his process, his values, and what truly drives his passion for game-making!
