Encompassing four major themes--identity, inspiration, ancestry, and stewardship--Been Outside traces common experiences across these writers’ paths through nature and into science. This collection explores what sparked their interests in the natural world, how fieldwork and adventure have shaped them as individuals, what it means to be a Black woman or nonbinary scientist studying the natural world, and what the future may look like for our shared outdoor community.

Essays and poems range across activities from rock climbing, surfing, and snowboarding to fieldwork with birds and marine animals. Camille Mosely contemplates the rich fishing history of Black Americans and how that relates to their career in freshwater ecology. Sharon Dorsey reflects on finally meeting a wildlife professional who looks like her. And Tanisha Williams shares the emotional journey of returning to South Africa to study plants. Edited by Amber Wendler and Shaz Zamore, these stories from 22 writers highlight the challenges and joys of carving out your own path—and will inspire any reader looking to craft their own outdoor life. Been Outside promotes collective action toward making the outdoor community more inclusive and welcoming to all.