Birding often starts with a quiet fascination – something that sparks our curiosity and grows into a deeper connection to the world. Bryan Calk shares how a spark during his youth in rural Texas shaped the path his life would follow. But birding’s deepest value isn’t just in the birds, but in the people we share them with.

This light-hearted narrative explores how that insight led Bryan to create Rio Diablo Birding Camp, an event where young birders find mentorship, community, and a sense of belonging.

More than a story, this photo-rich talk is an invitation to think about what we’re passing on, what kind of birding culture we’re building, and how it can shape not only the future of birding, but also how we connect with each other.