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Run Wild My Child + Why Printing Your Photos Still Matters

Sara McCarty founder of Run Wild My Child standing outdoors in the show
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Sara McCarty is getting families outside, one adventure at a time.

Sara McCarty, founder of Run Wild My Child, quote about getting outside to run wild and make memories.

"Childhood is meant to be wild. Let's make 'remember when' stories and give our kids the childhood they deserve."

image of a kid swinging on a tire swing into a river.
Photo Credit: Meghan Garriott

This week’s episode features a guest I met online during the pandemic. A mama, who like me was a recovering attorney, at home with kiddos. Trying to find ways to stay sane, inspire physical activity and creativity with her young children.

Sara McCarty is the founder of Run Wild My Child, a movement to inspire families to get outside, together — one adventure at a time. Not only is her website, magazine and instagram filled with breathtaking imagery of children magically playing outdoors, it is filled with inspiring stories.

Ones that you can do. Even if you don’t live on a farm, own chickens or homeschool your kids.

And even if you do, both suburban working moms and homeschooling families can find inspiration here.

Run Wild My Child’s stories have been featured in major online publications and Sara has built a community of contributing members that spans the globe. Featuring stories from all walks of life, geographical backgrounds and physical abilities.

photo of Ponyhenge in Lincoln MA, featuring abandoned rocking horses in a circle in a foggy field. with a quote from Sara McCarty, Founder of Run Wild My Child that says:

"Not getting outside effects kids mental health, physical wellbeing, ability to focus, self regulate and just be kids. But it doesn't have to be that way."
Photo Credit: Kiera Liu

I am so inspired by Sara’s commitment to showing how easy it is to embrace getting outside for adventures, no matter how simple they may be.

This episode is full of powerful reframes.

Key Takeaways

  • Reframe motherhood through nature: Getting kids outside doesn’t have to mean mountain hikes — it’s about finding small, everyday adventures.

  • Build community around shared stories: What began as a blog became a global team of 25 moms uplifting each other through shared experience.

  • Pivot with purpose: Sara’s shift from law to lifestyle brand shows how to follow curiosity and build something that serves both your passion and your family.

  • Memory-keeping is legacy work: Printing photos, writing letters, and documenting ordinary days help preserve the “you were here” moments.

  • Connection beats perfection: Whether in business, motherhood, or creative projects — it’s okay to pivot, rest, and find joy in the messy middle.

  • Sara needs 50 more subscribers: To continue publishing her incredible magazine, Run Wild My Child needs a minimum of 50 new subscribers. Help the cause today!

Run Wild My Child Fall 2025 Magazine cover of a child catching falling leaves with a text box that says: This Magazine can Help inspire adventure, connection and family outdoor play.
Photo Credit: Brynja Siguroardottir


Episode Highlights

00:49 — From “Running from the Law” to Run Wild My Child: How it all began

06:49 — Turning a one-woman blog into a 25-mom creative team

12:56 — Building friendships and finding support in unexpected online spaces

17:09 — Behind-the-scenes of their business mastermind for creative women

27:04 — Memory-keeping and motherhood: why Sara prints her photos and journals

34:39 — The Shutterfly photo book hack every busy mom needs

40:22 — How photos help kids remember — and repeat — the good times

46:38 — The bracelet that reminded her to find color and connection

47:37 — Family road trip podcast favorites and why storytelling still matters

53:41 — What’s next for Run Wild My Child and the joy of building legacy


it's time to change this statistic: Outdoor play has dropped by over 70% in the last generation.

Overlaying a photo of a young girl twirling in an orange dress in a field of wildflowers.
Photo Credit: Angie Mahlke

Notable Quotes

“Getting outside makes me a better mom — I can breathe, I say yes more, and I see my kids differently.” — Sara McCarty

“I feel so grateful to my past self for taking the photos, even the messy ones. Those pictures are treasures.” — Sara McCarty

“Sometimes the goal you set isn’t the one you need anymore — and that’s okay.” — Sara McCarty

“Our stories matter too. Who’s going to tell them if we don’t?” — Kiera Liu

“Connection happens when we let ourselves be seen — mud, mess, and all.” — Kiera Liu


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