What Are You Doing Here ?

" It is not enough to rescue these animals from illegal trafficking. They must be given the opportunity to recover properly. They must be given a real chance at survival, not just at a rescue station, but back in the wild, where they can contribute to genetic diversity and the continuation of their species in these areas. ~ Joey, founder, Jungle Rescue Reform"

Joey Solimine, is a veterinary nurse, wildlife conservationist, and the founder of the Jungle Rescue Reform, Joey studied Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary Medicine at Rutgers University and is currently studying Wildlife Conservation Biology through Unity College of Maine.She travels to wildlife rehabilitation centers across Central and South America, predominantly in the Amazon region, where she helps rehabilitate, medically care for, research and eventually release wildlife victims of illegal pet trade. She has been traveling to and working in the jungle doing research on ethical wildlife rehabilitation practices, controversies, and successful rehabilitation, with a focus on primate behavior.Her goal is to help build on what we know about rehabilitating wildlife that were once held as pets or used as tourist attractions, especially primates.

Her organization " Jungle Rescue Reform " aims to help bring funding and support to wildlife rescue centers operating in remote parts of the world, with a focus on the Amazon rainforest, they also aim to advocate for locals who run these sanctuaries, and to bridge the gaps that exist between the experts and the professionals; the science and the first hand experience of those native to those jungle areas.Visit 👉🏾Jungle Rescue Reform www.junglerescuereform.org & find Joey ⁠@joey.of.the.jungle⁠

Music : 

Joystick | shiny new kicks

John Bartmann | african moon

"Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison, by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.” ~ Albert Einstein The results are in for our most listened to year end wrapped by the almighty Spotify (wink) and this episode comes out on top across all listening platforms so we arerebroadcastingit.

Wildlife Vet. Dr. Sharon Mulindi, ... we can't help but think that a chat with Sharon who has devoted her life to aiding wildlife in Kenya is appropriate for a year end wrap up. Wishing you all much peace and joy.

Wildlife Veterinarian, Sharon Mulindi joins us from her mobile vet unit position in Northern Kenya. The mobile Vet units tackles some pretty import conservation concerns to assist the regional KWS vet in interventions which include treatments, rescues, disease surveillance and collaring. The mobile vet unit is sponsored by Save The Elephants, Ewaso Lions and Grey's Zebra Trust in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service. Enjoy our episode with Sharon and hear about some of the wildlife she comes face to face with, how Africa's first community owned and run elephant sanctuary works, and a peek into the important research work being done in conservation. The journey to a being a wildlife vet is quite a journey, and discovering Sharon's passion and commitment is an inspiration to us all as we tackle the challenges we face in our current reality. For a bit of Levity Marley steps in with his rapid fire questions for his segment of "Off the Top." Be sure to see what Ms. Mulindi is up to on her IG @sha.ron_mulindi and the mobile vet teams @savetheelephants, @ewasolions @kenyawildlifeservice Visit | Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, Africa’s first community owned elephant sanctuary situated in Northern Kenya. We rescue, to release. www.reteti.org Opening "Love Letter to the Earth" by Thich Nhat Hanh, read by Natasha Deganello Giraudie Reflections by Erika Tengu and Greta Mae Music by John Bartman & the EWP natural environment.

Maui | The Valley Isle | chapter one |

The series Ho'iho'i (echo) weaves a narrative that goes beyond the surface beauty. It delves into the Hawaiian island's history, mythology, and the timeless stories of its inhabitants. From the legendary demigod Maui to the significance of 'ohana (family), every image and word is a piece of the island's living story.

Chapter One explores the ancestral history, traditions, land and cultural practices of Maui. Whether it's the rhythmic chants of hula dancers, the craft of weaving lauhala, or the art of preparing a traditional luau, you'll gain a deep appreciation for the island's heritage.

Ho’iho’i also sheds light on the importance of preserving Maui's natural wonders. It highlights the efforts to protect endangered species, conserve fragile ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices to ensure Maui's beauty endures for generations.

Throughout the project, there's an emphasis on engaging with the local community. Interviews with Maui residents, historians, artisans, and cultural experts provide an intimate perspective, fostering a sense of connection between viewers and the island's people.

So, be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the opportunity to discovery all the beauty seen and unseen in this captivating podcast and photographic exhibition of the Hawaiian islands.

Visit Ho'iho'i for details.

Music | Monsplair eukele & field research sounds of Mother Earth

Bon storytelling & archival images | Valerie Alabanza

Welcome to an ENCORE of this captivating episode where we unveil the dark side of animal agriculture.

We are honored to have an extraordinary guest with us David,"The 40-Year-Old Vegan"David's journey is nothing short of remarkable, having undergone a profound transformation from a former slaughterhouse inspector to a passionate animal rights activist.

David, now in his forties, spent years immersed in the heart of the animal agriculture industry, witnessing firsthand the inner workings of slaughterhouses and the realities faced by countless animals. The exposure to the often harsh and distressing conditions ignited a profound awakening within them, urging them to seek a more compassionate and ethical path.

Despite the years of exposure to the grim realities of animal agriculture, David's transformation blossomed into an unwavering commitment to change. David made the courageous decision to embrace a vegan lifestyle, setting on a path of compassion, sustainability, and advocacy for the voiceless beings that share our planet.

In this episode, we'll delve into David's captivating story.

We'll explore the pivotal moments that led to his change of heart, the challenges he faced during his transition, and the profound impact his newfound convictions have had on his life and the lives of those around him.

David's unique perspective as a former slaughterhouse inspector provides invaluable insights into the often obscured realities of animal agriculture. Through David's advocacy, he sheds light on the hidden consequences of the industry while promoting sustainable and compassionate alternatives that can positively shape our collective future.

Join us as we embark on this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with "The 40-Year-Old Vegan"

Prepare to be moved, challenged, and enlightened as we explore the transformative power of empathy and compassion in shaping a kinder, more conscious world for all living beings. Let us learn from this remarkable journey and embrace the opportunity to make a difference, one compassionate choice at a time.

You can find and support David's work for animal rights here The 40 yr Old Vegan

Spoken word , Cores, Corridors, Carnivores by nature practice guide Natasha Deganello Giraudie

We invite you to deepen your relationship to the natural world, you can find Natasha's work here Nature Practice Guide

Photography by Clee Images

We invite you to join us in this continued, engaging discussion with author, advocate, and the National Wildlife Federation's Executive Director, Beth Pratt, as we further explore the profound connection between conservation science and the essence of human existence. In this conversation, we will delve into the depths of what it truly means to be human, fostering a harmonious coexistence with wildlife, and contemplating the future trajectory of human life on our beloved planet Earth.

" P22, the majestic mountain lion who captured the hearts of many, passed away recently. He was an iconic symbol of urban wildlife and a beloved resident of the Santa Monica Mountains. P22's story touched people around the world, highlighting the challenges faced by wildlife in fragmented habitats.

Despite his struggles, P22 became a beacon of hope, proving that wild animals can coexist with humans in urban landscapes. His journey, from the remote wilderness to the heart of Los Angeles, inspired conservation efforts and raised awareness about the importance of preserving natural corridors for wildlife.

P22 faced numerous obstacles during his time in the city, including navigating busy freeways and adapting to an urban diet. Despite these challenges, he managed to survive and thrive, becoming a symbol of resilience and adaptability.

His story sparked conversations about the need to protect and connect open spaces, enabling animals like P22 to roam freely and maintain healthy populations. He reminded us that our actions have consequences for the natural world and that it is our responsibility to ensure a future where wildlife can flourish.

P22's passing is a reminder of the urgent need to prioritize conservation efforts and create sustainable solutions for wildlife. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, as we strive to protect and preserve the precious biodiversity of our planet.

In memory of P22, let us work together to build a future where wild creatures can roam without boundaries and where the beauty and wonder of nature can be cherished by all. " - Excerpt fromBeth Pratt's stirring obituary to the Mountain Lion P22

Visit Beth Pratt's website for her blog, books and more.

We extend a massive thank you to the spoken word content: Cores, Corridors, Carnivores by Natasha Deganello Giraudie,music by: Alexander Nacaradaand to you our listeners.

We have the deep honor of opening this show with our nature practice guide natasha deganello giraudie, who poetically expresses the theme of this series | Cores, Corridors, Carnivores. Calm your body, clear your mind, open your heart & uplift your soul by deepening your relationship with the Earth.

We invite you to explore a nature practice with natasha, too. ⁠Nature Practice Guide⁠

Our featured guest on this episode is Beth Pratt, a lifelong advocate for wildlife, Beth has worked in environmental leadership roles for over twenty-five years, and in two of the country’s largest national parks: Yosemite and Yellowstone. As the California Regional Executive Director for the National Wildlife Federation, she says, “I have the best job in the world—advocating for the state’s remarkable wildlife.” We couldn't agree more!

Beth also leads the #SaveLACougars campaign to buildThe Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing,thelargest wildlife crossing in the world. This wildlife crossing will help save a population of mountain lions from extinction. Beth's innovative conservation work has been featured by The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, BBC World Service, CBS This Morning, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Journal, NPR and more. 

Her upcoming book, "Yosemite Wildlife," will be released by the Yosemite Conservancy in 2023. She has given a TEDx talk about coexisting with wildlife called, “How a Lonely Cougar in Los Angeles Inspired the World,” and is featured in the new documentary, “The Cat that Changed America.” 

Join us for this enlightening two part conversation with Beth Pratt, where we travel down some familiars trails and some not so familiar ones ... exploring connectivity, our place in the web of Life, caring for wildlife, our planet and ourselves.

Want to have a live peekat the progress of the wildlife crossing ? visit Save LA Cougars

⁠

Music |

Ablation Suite by Hayden Folker

What Are You Doing Here ?

Produced by |

Emerging World Project

We are rebroadcasting one of our most listened to and enjoyed episodes... A conversation with Nick Brandt | photographer

The themes in Nick Brandt’s photographic series always relate to the destructive impact that humankind is having on both the natural world and now humans themselves too.

Nearly twenty years ago Nick Brandt started photographing the wild animals of Africa as an elegy to a dis-appearing world. After some years, seeing the escalating environmental destruction, he felt an urgent need to move away from that kind of work and address the destruction in a much more direct way. This led to the series, Inherit the Dust (2016) and This Empty World (2019). These were mainly about habitat loss and biodiversity loss, significantly as a result of human ex-pansion and development.

Nick established a style of portrait photography of animals in the wild similar to that of the photography of humans in studio setting, shot on medium format film, attempting to portray animals as sentient creatures not so different from us. 

Nick’s "The Day May Break" (2021) series is the first part of a global series portraying people & animals impacted by environmental destruction. Photographed in Zimbabwe and Kenya, the people in the photos have all been badly affected by climate change - displaced by cyclones that destroyed their homes, displaced & impoverished after years-long severe droughts.

The photos were taken at 5 sanctuaries/ conservancies. The animals are almost all long-term rescues, due to everything from poaching of their parents to habitat destruction & poisoning. These animals can never be released back into the wild. Now habituated, it was therefore safe for strangers to be photographed close to the animals in the same frame. Nick has had solo gallery and museum shows around the world, including New York, London, Berlin, Stockholm, Paris and Los Angeles. All of the series are published in book form. In descending order, Nick says the images are best viewed in a gallery, in the book or online full screen on your computer at the very least on your phone. You can discovery his work on his website www.nickbrandt.com

Nick is also the co-founder of Big Life Foundation, a non-profit in Kenya/ Tanzania, established 2010. They employ more than 300 local rangers protecting 1.6 million acres of the Amboseli / Kilimanjaro ecosystem. 

We caught up with Nick at his home in California and if you want to know what word he would add to the dictionary... it rhymes with "schmuck"  followed by wit. 

The music on this episode are natural original sounds of Earth herself and the beautiful music of apoxode and Daniel Birch 

Excerpt from "Love Letter to the Earth " Parallax Press (2013) by Thich Nhat Hanh was read by Greta

Enjoy. We will catch on the flip side.

We are rebroadcasting this popular episode with apiarist, Madison Newman. Enjoy!

Have you ever day dreamed about being a beekeeper ? or do you really want to understand the role bees play in our world?

Well, here is your chance even if you don't think it's for you, to learn the ins and outs of beekeeping. Our guest on this episode is Madison Newman. She is a 22 year old beekeeper born and raised in Southern California's, San Fernando Valley. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from California State University Northridge. Madison started her beekeeping profession working as a honey salesperson right out out of high school, and has worked her way up to beekeeper. When she isn't beekeeping you can likely find her hiking, brewing beer, or practicing martial arts.

Madison reminds us of the integral part that all of the pollinators play in our ecosystem. Her English literature studies have taught her how to take an analytical approach to the way she handles the many different bee scenarios that she might be up against as a beekeeper, this approach is very beneficial when it comes to managing bee colonies, keeping bees alive and safe for the public. You can check out Maddog's adventures and truly learn a lot by dropping into her IG @maddog586

And if you want to learn more about beekeeping, join a community, or get yourself some local honey be sure to visit www.thevalleyhive.com  ... from tasting honey to viewing bees in a fully functional glass hive, it is the only place of its kind in Southern California. 

This week we are rebroadcasting our conversation with Jennifer Brent, Executive Director of the California Wildlife Center.

Our nature practice guide Natasha Deganello Giraudie sets the tone for us with a beautiful Land Blessing. Together we can deepen our relationship to the more -than-human world at this critical time. We encourage you to take it slow ... find a tree to sit under and relax into this important conversation.

California Wildlife Center takes responsibility for the protection of native wildlife through rehabilitation, education, and conservation. It is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native California species, who otherwise would be left to suffer from the effects of human encroachment, habitat destruction and environmental damage.

Jennifer Brenthas been working with animals for over 13 years most recently as the Executive Director of California Wildlife Center. She has a passion for the preservation of native species and the environment and has been at the helm to help over 82,000 wild California animals.

She was previously at the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation, the Found Animals Foundation and served on the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services' Commission.

California Wildlife Center offers all of their programs at zero cost to the finder. They help over 4,300 animals each year and answer over 30,000 phone calls. This work is funded by individual donations as they receive no sustaining government money. Your kind offerings are greatly appreciated.

Learn more by visiting www.cawildlife.org

This show is produced by I Emerging World Project, whose studios are located on Tongva Land .

The music is by | axletree and the surrounding wildlife near the EWP studios.

“To restore stability to our planet, we must restore its biodiversity, the very thing that we’ve removed. It’s the only way out of this crisis we’ve created – we must rewild the world.’ – David Attenborough

The broad C’s of rewilding – Cores, Corridors and Carnivores – largely encapsulate the conservation rationale behind most large scale rewilding endeavours whose grander aim is to increase biodiversity, reverse extinction trends in several species, and revive ecological machinery to mitigate climate change. This includes identifying and demarcating a large core (inviolate of humans) region in need of ecological restoration and allowing regeneration of degraded and imbalanced ecosystems. For smooth movement of animals such as wide ranging large carnivores and genetic flow between animal populations, ensuring healthy connectivity between such core areas and other wilderness areas is crucial. Wildlife corridors connecting two or more cores need to be restored with the help of local communities, preserved, and protected. Carnivores represent the apex predators within ecosystems whose presence and reintroduction within a landscape enables ecosystem revival.

Natural ecosystems by nature are self-regulating and self-sustaining. But, impact of human actions have rendered large swathes of natural habitats dilapidated, destroyed and wounded. Wildlife populations the world over have witnessed a staggering 60% or more decline in just the last 40-50 years. We have essentially fractured the carbon absorbing sinks such as oceans and forests, and are now reeling under the impact of man-made climate change further compounded by continued and relentless carbon emissions. Only restoration of such ecosystems on the land and in the seas will keep all dominoes from falling, and ecosystem functions from collapsing.(Wildlife Conservation Trust)

For this series " Cores, Corridors, Carnivores"  we will start with exploring the impact that the famous mountain lion P22 had in Los Angeles, California (and the world!) and the construction of the worlds largest wildlife crossing in the world to date, The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.

In an effort to get You involved we invite you to become a citizen scientist! yes, You. We invite you to download the community powered App "iNaturalists "  and become deeply familiar with the natural world around you and join us in an ecosystem revival!

Music : Truth in Stones by Kevin McCloud

In the spirit of collaboration and community science we invite you to have a listen to this episode we are sharing from the “Nature Talks” podcast by Erfan Firouzi. Erfan chats it up with Kelsey Prediger about the most trafficked mammal, the elusive beauty known as the Pangolin.

Growing up on a lake immersed in nature, Kelsey developed a fiery passion for adventure and wildlife with the dream of one day working in conservation. In 2016 she moved to Namibia to work with carnivores but soon after she learned about the plight of the pangolin. She dedicated her research to learning more about this gentle creature and found her calling and with that she founded the Pangolin Conservation & Research Foundation

The Pangolin Conservation & Research Foundation (PCRF) was founded on the belief that without combined outreach, collaboration, scientific research and policy, conservation efforts would continue to fall short.

Kelsey is also the Secretariat of the Namibian Pangolin Working Group.  Additionally, she leads the Pangolin Conservation and Research Project, a collaboration between PCRF and the Biodiversity Research Centre- Namibian University of Science and Technology.

Her work to expand field research and develop strong policies is ground breaking.

Please visit and support their work here | www.pangolincrf.org | on IG @pangolincrf

The music for this episode is by Kevin McCloud &natural sounds around the EWP studios.

" It is not enough to rescue these animals from illegal trafficking. They must be given the opportunity to recover properly. They must be given a real chance at survival, not just at a rescue station, but back in the wild, where they can contribute to genetic diversity and the continuation of their species in these areas. Jungle Rescue Reform is committed to aiding in this cause and making a difference for these animals and the species to which they belong."  

Joey, founder - Jungle Rescue Reform

Our guest is Joey Solimine, she is a veterinary nurse, wildlife conservationist, conservation student, and the founder of Jungle Rescue Reform. Joey studied Animal Science and Pre-Veterinary Medicine at Rutgers University and is currently studying Wildlife Conservation Biology through Unity College of Maine. She travels to wildlife rehabilitation centers across Central and South America, predominantly in the Amazon region, where she helps rehabilitate, medically care for, research and eventually release wildlife victims of illegal pet trade.

She has been traveling to and working in the jungle for almost 7 years now, doing research on ethical wildlife rehabilitation practices, controversies, and successful rehabilitation, with a focus on primate behavior and how primate cognitive complexities may complicate the rehabilitation process and what we think we know about it. Her goal is to help build on what we know about rehabilitating wildlife that were once held as pets or used as tourist attractions, especially primates. 

Her organizationJungle Rescue Reform also aims to help bring funding and support to wildlife rescue centers operating in remote parts of the world, with a focus on the Amazon rainforest, they also aim to advocate for locals who run these sanctuaries, and to bridge the gaps that exist between the experts and the professionals; the science and the first hand experience of those native to those jungle areas.

Visit Jungle Rescue Reform  at www.junglerescuereform.org  and find Joey Solimine on IG @joey.of.the.jungle

Music : 

Joystick | shiny new kicks

John Bartmann | african moon 

“Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison, by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.” 

~ Albert Einstein

Wildlife Veterinarian, Sharon Mulindi   joins us from her mobile vet unit position in Northern Kenya.

The mobile Vet units tackles some pretty import conservation concerns to assist the regional KWS vet in interventions which include treatments, rescues, disease surveillance and collaring. The mobile vet unit is sponsored by Save The Elephants, Ewaso Lions and Grey's Zebra Trust in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service. 

Enjoy our episode with Sharon and hear about some of the wildlife she comes face to face with, how Africa's first community owned and run elephant sanctuary works, and a peek into the important research work being done in conservation. The journey to a being a wildlife vet is quite a journey, and discovering Sharon's passion and commitment is an inspiration to us all as we tackle the challenges we face in our current reality. 

For a bit of levity Marley steps in with his rapid fire questions for his segment of "Off the Top."

Be sure to see what Ms. Mulindi is up to on her IG @sha.ron_mulindi and the mobile vet teams @savetheelephants, @ewasolions @kenyawildlifeservice 

Visit |  Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, Africa’s first community owned elephant sanctuary situated in Northern Kenya. We rescue, to release.  www.reteti.org  

Opening "Love Letter to the Earth" by Thich Nhat Hanh, read by Natasha Deganello Giraudie

Reflections by Erika Tengu and Greta Mae

Music by John Bartman & the EWP natural environment.

“ A problem well stated is a problem half-solved.” - Charles Kettering

Our culture depends on single use plastic… look around you, right now. what do you see? maybe a plastic bottle, food containers, the infamous six pack rings… the problem is that most plastic waste does not make it to the recycling center or even the landfill. This plastic is carried by rivers, wind and animals and can find its way to the sea.

It’s time for us to break up with single - plastic! so go ahead turn on your favorite dance party song and start your break-up ! 

we encourage to you visit PlasticTides.Org  see what you can do for a ton of inspiration and opportunities.

Our featured guest today is Christian Shaw, he is the Founder and Executive Director of Plastic Tides, an organization whose mission is to inspire and catalyze action toward a plastic- free future through adventure, education and youth empowerment.

Christian has undertaken a great deal of challenges in his desire to see a plastic-free future, he has lead paddle board expeditions to some of the worlds most polluted bodies of water to aid in the collection of marine plastic pollution research.

Now rolling into a decade of experience in the non-profit sector of conservation, he recently completed an expedition up the Mississippi river researching the prevalence of nurdles (the parent material of plastic products. This expedition leads to engaged activism through an online petition supporting opposition to the proposed Formosa Plastics facility in St. James Parish, La.

Since 2014, inspiring youth to take action has always been core to Plastic Tides.

The Global Youth Mentor Program (GYM) gives motivated Youth Leaders the tools and support to create lasting systemic change in their communities. Youth Leaders are paired with Mentors from all over the world and directed through change-based projects. Now more than ever, youth leadership is vital to the success of the environmental movement.

We are grateful that You are here with us for our talk with Christian.

Find out more about and get involved the Global Youth Mentor program PlasticTides.Org & follow @plastictides on IG.

Thank you to Maryam Faresh and Erfan Firouzi for opening and closing the show with their beautiful readings from “Love Letter to the Earth”

by Thich Nhat Hanh, Parallax Press (2013)

Further show details can be found over at EmergingWorldProject.Org 

We invite you to celebrate with us! this episode was played and enjoyed far and wide more than any episode in our podcast history...  we feel an encore for new friends is in order. We are nourished by this collaboration with friends and our mother earth, and we thank you.

Be sure to enjoy this undisturbed outdoors and under a tree... if possible.

What you will hear is a natural soundscape, uplifting contemplative original music and the reading of excerpts by some of our favorite people from Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh's "Love Letter to The Earth" Parallax press (2013)

Please enjoy and send us your love letter to the earth ... IG:emergingworld_project  | email: podcast@emergingworldproject.org

Collaborators are listed on our website www.EmergingWorldProject.Org

The themes in Nick Brandt’s photographic series always relate to the destructive impact that humankind is having on both the natural world and now humans themselves too.

Nearly twenty years ago Nick Brandt started photographing the wild animals of Africa as an elegy to a dis-appearing world. After some years, seeing the escalating environmental destruction, he felt an urgent need to move away from that kind of work and address the destruction in a much more direct way. This led to the series, Inherit the Dust (2016) and This Empty World (2019). These were mainly about habitat loss and biodiversity loss, significantly as a result of human ex-pansion and development.

Nick established a style of portrait photography of animals in the wild similar to that of the photography of humans in studio setting, shot on medium format film, attempting to portray animals as sentient creatures not so different from us. 

Nick’s The Day May Break (2021) series is the first part of a global series portraying people & animals impacted by environmental destruction. Photographed in Zimbabwe and Kenya, the people in the photos have all been badly affected by climate change - displaced by cyclones that destroyed their homes, displaced & impoverished after years-long severe droughts.

The photos were taken at 5 sanctuaries/ conservancies. The animals are almost all long-term rescues, due to everything from poaching of their parents to habitat destruction & poisoning. These animals can never be released back into the wild. Now habituated, it was therefore safe for strangers to be photographed close to the animals in the same frame. Nick has had solo gallery and museum shows around the world, including New York, London, Berlin, Stockholm, Paris and Los Angeles. All of the series are published in book form. In descending order, Nick says the images are best viewed in a gallery, in the book or online full screen on your computer at the very least on your phone. You can discovery his work on his website www.nickbrandt.com

Nick is also the co-founder of Big Life Foundation, a non-profit in Kenya/ Tanzania, established 2010. They employ more than 300 local rangers protecting 1.6 million acres of the Amboseli / Kilimanjaro ecosystem. 

We caught up with Nick at his home in California and if you want to know what word he would add to the dictionary... it rhymes with "schmuck"  followed by wit. 

The music on this episode are natural original sounds of Earth herself and the beautiful music of apoxode and Daniel Birch 

Excerpt from "Love Letter to the Earth " Parallax Press (2013) by Thich Nhat Hanh was read by Greta

Some of us come into the world ready to do what we are called to do, knowing and finding it early on. Our conversation with Isaiah illuminates this quite clearly. Isaiah is 18yrs old, he shares with us how early on in his already young life he was entranced by all things nature, leading to a beautiful body of art work consisting of bird paintings and natural history illustrations, a fellowship and the study of ornithology at Cornell University.

As we continue to honor the writing of the beloved Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, we hope you enjoy this conversation with Isaiah whose own deep relationship with nature and the aspiration to preserve it for future generations is a living- breathing love letter to the earth.

Isaiah Emmanuel Scott, was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, he is an avid birder, natural history illustrator, and an outdoor brand ambassador.

He is also a student at Cornell university, majoring in Environment and sustainability, with a focus on ornithology.

He is the recipient of the Eckleberry Fellowship for 2021, which endows nature artists with the goal of enhancing the impact of their work. His plan is to illustrate and create a book that depicts the relationship of birds and African culture in continental Africa, as well as the diaspora.

You can support Isaiah’s 40 acre nature preserve project and more by visiting the link in BIO on his IG account @ikesbirdinghikes and his website www.theisaiahescott

 break music ; Blonde by Nctrnm

Align with Lunar time.

The moon has always marked the passage of time, waxing and waning with a steady rhythm Awareness of the the lunar phases brings us into relationship with the radiance of the sun, the receptivity of the moon and the constant movement of the cycles of the earth. As we continue our series exploring and deepening our relationship with the Earth; nurturing a global peace community and reflecting on the writings of peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh, we offer you this wonderful conversation with April McMurtry.

Aprilis the founder of THE MOON IS MY CALENDAR and creatress of the New Moon Calendar Journal.

She is also a visual artist, mother, and creative lunar guide. Her work reflects her passion for nature-based cycles, wellness, and creative expression.

With a background in Youth Leadership, Girls’ Education, Intuitive Art, and Meditation - April has more than twenty years experience working in education as a classroom teacher, workshop facilitator and program coordinator at home and abroad.

April’s guidance supports people on the path to growth and transformation through meditation, creative process, and awakening cyclical wisdom.

She is interested in how healing work is connected to our relationship with Earth.

Both of April’s grandmothers are first generation born in the United States from England and Ireland. She is a mother of two children and resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with four generations of her family. 

Learn more about " The Moon is my Calendar" with April at www.themoonismycalendar.com and enjoy this lunar language on IG @themoonismycalendar

Visit EmergingWorldProject.Org for details about this series.

Welcome to Earth Day 4.22.2022

On this episode we have gathered a cultural mosaic community that weaves excerpts from the writings of Thich Naht Hanh's text "Love Letter to the Earth" (Parallax Press, 2013) with reflection, natural and original soundscape; thereby creating the ultimate deep listening experience, honoring global peace activist Thich Naht Hanh and dedicated to our Mother Earth. 

Seeking to affirm the life spirit in a way that nourishes the depleted contemporary soul, this episode will lead you into a transcultural and transcendent journey which reveals our commonality in diversity, that spark of inter-being we all share. We invite you to let yourself be drawn into meditation and emerge refreshed. 

We'll see you on the flip side.

For a complete list of credits please visit www.EmergingWorldProject.Org

On this episode we take a deep dive into how we can live in right relationship with our mother Earth and why that feels so essential for humans right now. We begin with a conversation with Natasha, this conversation, friendship and guidance with deepening my own relationship with the natural world has been a bit of a lifeline for me, and I sense it can be for you too. You will find some bits of laughter, guidance and an invitation to Sing to the Earth.

This episode is a prelude to our next season where we explore the Love Letter to the Earth by Thich Naht Hanh; through out this season we will also explore finding novelty in nature, art in our lives and simply helping out.  

Our guest Natasha Deganello Giraudie is a mother, a filmmaker and a teacher of nature practice. She helped to pioneer the micro-documentary genre for humanitarian movements, filming in more than 30 countries and reaching expansive audiences with her work.

Her film, One Word Sawalmem, was selected by Robert Redford and the Redford Center as a powerful voice at the intersection of youth, indigenous wisdom and environmental change.Her experiential nature meditation film, Inmanencia, was selected to be screened in festivals around the world from Boulder to Buenos Aires to Bhutan, where it won the Audience Choice Award. 

As a child, Natasha learned some of her most valuable lessons outside the classroom – from indigenous people living deep in the wilderness of her native Venezuela. She has studied nature-inspired compassion with the Dalai Lama for more than 20 years and also attended nature-based retreats with Thich Naht Hanh at Plum Village. As a teacher of nature-based wellbeing, Natasha has taught groups of young professionals from the United Nations, Google and Airbnb as well as medical practitioners, politicians, nonprofit leaders and fellow documentary filmmakers in the US, Latin America and Asia.

Connect with Natasha and begin your nature practice today https://www.rosaguayaba.earth/ 

You will also discover much wisdom and beauty on Natasha's IG @rosa.guayaba 

Thich Nhat Hanh, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on January 22, he was a spiritual revolutionary who brought Buddhism out of Vietnam and introduced it to the wider world. He is the author of more than 100 books, and wrote extensively about the principles and everyday applications of engaged Buddhism.

In the wake of his death, we are reminded of his teachings onmindfulness – a nonjudgemental awareness of all that is happening inside and around us. If we can reconnect with our bodies, we connect with the Earth. We also open ourselves to the joy that is possible in even the most mundane of moments: In order to work towards a more sustainable future, Thay as he is called, which means teacher in Vietnamese, encourages us to reconnect with our Mother Earth.

The Arctic or the rainforests can feel rather abstract, and therefore separate. But at a molecular level, we are the Earth. – and it’s possible to realize this more deeply: over the course of this special season in reverence to Thich Nhat Hanh, a stunning array of voices from across the globe will be reading from Thay’s book “Love Letter to the Earth” coupled with essays, interviews, music and art. It is in invitation to walk, learn and live the deeper conversation with our Mother Earth. 

Thich Nhat Hanh " Love Letter to the Earth " is graciously permitted by Parallax Press.

Parallax Press is a nonprofit publisher founded by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. They publish books and media on the art of mindful living and Engaged Buddhism. And are committed to offering teachings that help transform suffering and injustice. Their aspiration is to contribute to collective insight and awakening, bringing about a more joyful, healthy, and compassionate society. www.parallax.org

We also wish to express our deepest gratitude to Plum Village Monastery for their love and dedication in continuing the work of Thich Nhat Hanh. 

You can help further Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings by donating to the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation 

https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/ways-to-give

To enjoy the entirety of this upcoming presentation please visit EmergingWorldProject.Org | podcast

The philosophical heartbeat of a storyteller is to move more people to do great things: to inspire people to think, act and behave in a way which will enrich their lives and those of people around them.

Diedre Jantjies is a cultural activist from Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, she writes the historical stories of women. She is the founder of Na Aap Productions, a fully integrated, broad based production company, screening untold stories of Southern Africa. Diedre has a long history of stage performing, she took these skills and started writing her own stories that she is creating into short and feature films. Working extensively on narratives closest to her heart.

Stories that include indigenous heritage and traditions that have been forgotten, is the most important dialogue that she wants to create. Company founder Deidre Jantjies identified that women needed a voice to represent themselves creatively.

This was a great way to start a company that stood for African writers, directors, and producers. In 2020, the company partnered with an Indian storyteller and produced Love Thy Neighbour, an animation short film that won international awards. In that same year they produced Stories in die Wind, a web series that tells the indigenous story of a young girl finding her purpose. 

Follow Diedre's adventures on IG @jantjesdiedre and the animated web series "Stories in die Wind" at www.storiesindiewind.co.za

The heating planet is our commons. It holds us all. To address and reverse warming requires connection and reciprocity. It calls for moving out of our comfort zones to find a depth of courage we may have never known. It calls for action that is bold and fearless. our guest today is David, one such person with a depth of courage that left us after out talk in deep reflection about our own continued and deepened call to end the climate crisis in one generation, and most importantly transitioning to a plant - based food system. David shares with us the horrors of the animal agriculture industry from his own direct experience as a (former) federal slaughterhouse inspector. 

David Pereira has worked in the Animal Agriculture industry for 15 years. He has witnessed many horrible things during his time as a slaughterhouse inspector. After some self-reflection, learning that we don’t need to eat a cows, chickens, pigs or fish to live he became vegan. Now, David is working to grow is his influence and share his story in the hopes that he may inspire others to follow their intuition, go vegan, and become activists. As an Animal Rights Activist, he’s helped to create and organize many campaigns workin with many other activists with the goal of recruitment in mind. He enjoys street outreach speaking to the public directly. He has a platform on youtube, tiktok, facebook and instagram. His work is focused on helping to build a better life and world for the most vulnerable. You can support David’s goal of becoming a full time activist for change or help with other campaigns by visiting David's platforms  https://linktr.ee/The40yearoldVegan  

YouTube |  https://youtube.com/c/The40yearoldVegan

IG | @the_40_yearoldvegan 

“I love speaking with the public directly, you see the change right before your eyes” ~ david pereira

... match your passion with helping to regenerate life on Earth by delving in at regeneration.org

The world’s largest, most complete listing and network of solutions to the climate crisis. And how to do them! ™

music | apoxode

Emerging World Project studios are located on Tongva Land

Dr (Hon) Wong Siew Te, D.J.N.

准拿督黃修德荣誉博士

Dr. Wong Siew Te is a Malaysian wildlife biologist and tropical forest ecologist. He did his Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana, USA, and has an honorary doctorate from the University of Sunshine Coast in Australia. He is the CEO and founder of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, which he founded in 2008. Having done his Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana, USA, and has an honorary doctorate from the University of Sunshine Coast in Australia. Dr. Wong has been recognized with numerous awards for his work on sun bear conservation and is a worldwide authority on this rare bear species. 

Come along for this fascinating and informative chat about this rare bear species and grab a little inspiration for following your passion to help out in the efforts to regenerate our magnificent planet. Now is the time to bring our practices, products, agriculture and all else into alignment with the living world and help end the climate crisis.

Show your support and learn more at The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center http://www.bsbcc.org.my/

First up, our friend and nature practice guide Natasha Deganello Giraudie sets the tone for us with a beautiful Land Blessing. Together we can deepen our relationship to the more -than- human world at this critical time. We encourage you to take it slow ... find a tree to sit under and relax into this important conversation.

On this episode we catch up with Jennifer Brent the Executive Director for California Wildlife Center.

California Wildlife Center takes responsibility for the protection of native wildlife through rehabilitation, education, and conservation.  It is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native California species, who otherwise would be left to suffer from the effects of human encroachment, habitat destruction and environmental damage.

Jennifer has been working with animals for over 13 years most recently as the Executive Director of California Wildlife Center.  She has a passion for the preservation of native species and the environment and has been at the helm to help over 82,000 wild California animals.  

She was previously at the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation, the Found Animals Foundation and served on the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services’ Commission.

California Wildlife Center offers all of their programs at zero cost to the finder. They help over 4,300 animals each year and answer over 30,000 phone calls. This work is funded by individual donations as they receive no sustaining government money. Your kind offerings are greatly appreciated. Learn more by visiting www.cawildlife.org 

This show is produced by | Emerging World Project whose studios are located on Tongva Land

s2.7 Music | axletree

There is nothing more inspiring than a human steeped in their passion, in this case passion for humans and the return to the well - being of Earth and her richly diverse inhabitants, Erfan Firouzi is a joy and you are not going to want to miss this conversation!

Erfan Firouzi is 17 years old, he lives in Dubai, UAE. He is currently studying at the Westminster School, Dubai. 

Erfan has always loved the natural world, and so started researching scientifically on animals and plants within the past 7 years or so. He was at first inspired by Sir David Attenborough and still till this day, Sir David serves as his role model.

As David Attenborough says: “An understanding of the natural world and what’s in it is a source of not only a great curiosity but great fulfillment.” Erfan Firouzi believes that until people understand how the natural works, they won’t pay time or care about it. "We need to understand, to care and care, to save."

Erfan has also learned that the natural world is dramatically fragile, yet if given the chance and care it can recover beyond our imagination, and since then he has been working extra hard, by creating documentaries, organizing online classes which teach young people about the natural world and “Nature Talks”  where he talks with scientists and biologist regarding saving our beautiful planet.His website is a testament to his lifelong commitment to spreading awareness to younger generations by getting them closer to the natural world with the help of his preserved zoology and botany specimens. Erfan was recently the recipient of the "WeNaturalists" www.wenaturalists.com "storyteller with purpose" award. We congratulate him and hope you learn and enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

“Our living planet is truly a very unique place, it provides us with our daily needs and support during hard times. It is now the time that we support our planet and its unique biodiversity." ~ Erfan Firouzi. 

Help re-wild the planet with Erfan at www.thewildlifefocus.com 

Emerging World Project Studios are located on Tongva Land  

s2.6 | music | axletree

According to the Urban dictionary "save the fish"  when saying goodbye is a way to remind people to be aware of preserving the Earth.

Well,  first we'd like you to say hello to Mia from Oahu, Hawaii. Mia is 13 years old and runs Youth Climate Save Hawaii. She is Vegan and insists she is not brainwashed or anything. 

Stop by and be inspired by this conversation with Mia where we talk about some of her favorite causes like the plant based treaty, what to look for in "green washing" Harry Potter (yep) how she's learning to paddle board to get in the ocean and help her with her fear of fish and how becoming vegan is a great thing to do to help save the environment.

Mia says " I’m just trying to help save this Earth! and endorsing the Plant Based Treaty will help loads and I hope I can help change this world for the better one day!” 

Find Youth Climate Save Hawaii on IG and please join Mia to "save the fish."
www.plantbasedtreaty.org

It’s not much of a leap to say that creative innovative youth hold the key to the solutions for the planetary emergencies we are faced with at this time. We certainly need young people with all of their available brain neurons firing to help solve these problems. Wildlife reserves, parks and greenbelts and the beings and plants that live within also depend on an alert and caring human population of informed people - for their continued survival.

We are talking today to a young person leading the change… a person whose kindness and positivity is just the dose of heart warming medicine we could all use at the moment. Nikhita Kalluri is part of the Youth Climate Save Movement, she is an intersectional climate and environmental activist whose work emphasizes internal healing and holistic action. She is 19 years old and a student at UC Santa Cruz in northern California. Please join me in your heart in welcoming our guest Nikhita. 

You can learn more about the work of the Youth Climate Save Movement on IG @youthclimatesave and @youthclimatesave_sanjose

Emerging World Project Studios are located on Tongva Land

Music by : Apoxode

Are you ready to weave yourself into nature? 

If you are able... take a walk or hang out under a tree while listening this episode.

Friends of Emerging World Project and our community have contributed to the mosaic of voices, natural earth sounds and music that you will hear throughout our brilliant conversation with our guest, Grace Kimaru.

21 year old Grace Kimaru is an environmentalist from Nyeri, Kenya. She is an urban and regional planner focusing on the environment, climate change and human rights advocacy. Her passion runs deep when it comes to mobilizing and leading other young people to be ambassadors of Mother Nature. 

She is also the founder of Foster Green Association. A project that strives for environmental conservation through tree planting, cleanups, environmental education and programs on organic farming for the younger generation.

You can also find the Foster Green Association spreading awareness about wildlife and environmental conservation on various social media platforms. Grace believes that fighting the climate crisis is not a one-man responsibility, it calls for teamwork and the commitment of the whole world. Consequently, she is a firm believer of the immense potential of African youth to transform the continent through innovation, hard work and solidarity. Jump in and support Grace and the Foster Green Association, in any way you can... as they pave a greener future; on IG @fostergreenassociation and @gracekimuru 

EWP thanks these friends for their offerings to this soundscape.

Music | Apoxode | Tongva Land

Land Blessing |Natasha Deganello Giraudie 

Intro | Terri Jude Davis

Outro | Mark Adair Rios 

Sit back and relax, perhaps outside somewhere...with the birds and enjoy this episode.  We have woven in a little poetry and invigorating music to help you weave yourself back into nature as we converse with Sebastian. People to People. People to Nature. Nature to Everything. 

 Sebastian Moreno is an Environmental Conservation PhD candidate at the University of Massachusetts - Amherst. His research focuses are in ornithology, urban ecology, and social science. Sebastian's dissertation works on improving the citizen science experience by making it more inclusive and accessible to underserved communities. Outside of academia, he is a Pathways Biological Intern for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Program Coordinator for Latino Outdoors Western Massachusetts. He is also a licensed falconer and works with his American Kestrel (falco sparverius), Captain. Ask Sebastian anything @urbanbirdeco on IG.

You can help us spread the word about “what are you doing here” by sharing this episode or leaving a review in your favorite podcast app. Reviews help potential new listeners see that our show is worth their time, and every single one makes a difference.

Youth Climate Save is the first youth climate organization to focus on the link between climate change and animal agriculture. It's time to seriously talk about that connection and what better place to start ... than with our youth. On this episode we are speaking with Greta Cuthell a 17yr old activist from Australia.Greta spent 2 years working at a wildlife sanctuary, which made for a very different high school experience, during that time she saw firsthand effects of climate change. It’s was this experience that opened her eyes and she has said it destroyed her while also revealing her calling to being vegan. At one point in our talk Greta shares how being vegan brightens her own day, by knowing that she is not contributing to the suffering of animals. This is but one powerful insight amongst many others from this vibrant and compassionate being. These days, she works with Youth Climate Save, a movement that empowers young people from all over the world to stand up for climate justice and animal justice while also educating others on these pressing issues. Greta's voice lands evocatively on our hearts as she focuses her life on helping to create a more beautiful, just and kind world. as an organizer for Youth Climate Save Victoria you can find Greta on IG @youthclimatesavevictoria and support the plant-based treaty @plantbasedtreaty  

some of the things we talked about ...

* Animal Agriculture

* Plant based food system

* Veganism

* Community Building

* Renewable Energy

* Being in right relationship with the natural world

   visit EmergingWorldProject.Org

 s2 | synergy | from Greek synergos ... working together

As we come out of our hiatus the "Emerging World Project" collective recognizes that empathy and stories are essential to all things regeneration and that the emergence of this future depends on a societal consensus around revitalizing our culture of collective sensemaking, real dialogue, and civic virtue. Here is a taste of what is on our plate. We can't wait to share with you all ... the full meal of stories we are gathering.

The making of a wildlife vet!

Chatting with us from her home in Kenya our guest is Gabbie, she is an aspiring wildlife veterinarian who is already steeped in conservation and environmental work at the young age of 16!  

Her huge heart leaps out at you as we talk about the state of iconic African wildlife. Gabbie shares with us the stories of growing up with wildlife as her norm. No fear here when a lion sticks its head in the window while on a game drive, nor a tremble upon the discovery of a cheeky baboon helping itself to all the snacks in her tent. But, this is not all fun and games, wildlife protection is a big deal that Kenyans are devoted to and succeeding as the guardians and stewards of their land and wildlife. Gabbie's is a voice of the future for her country and a very active youth in the conservation field. It is no wonder she aspires to be a wildlife veterinarian as that will put her on the front lines of the care that wildlife are increasingly in need of these days. Gabbie is well aware of the need to educate people about the wildlife in Africa in a way that does not romanticize the situation, but yet encourages people to love not fear and become warriors for their protection and preservation. Gabbie has a couple organizations that she suggest you support, so please visit these websites and show your support for our world's wildlife and environment and you can follow this young leader on her IG @little.miss.dolittle (get it?) visit:  https://www.bornfreeusa.org/ https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/

... an inspiring and mighty cooperative of humans that are BEING the change we need in the world.

Our guest is Abiodun (Abbey) Henderson, Founder and Executive director of The Come Up Project, whose program includes Gangstas to Growers which is apart of a cooperative community model in Atlanta, Georgia that is centered on living, playing, working, hurting, healing, offering and Black liberation.  

Abbey’s vision brings together two important facets of the modern urban revival—the locavore food movement that has become a fixture of gentrifying cities across the country, and an awakening recognition that gentrification was leaving behind, or even displacing, a significant portion of the population.

Simultaneously, Gangstas to Growers also teaches young people the importance of building wealth in historically disinvested communities in Atlanta. Despite Atlanta’s reputation as a Black Mecca, the city’s low-wealth youth have less of a shot to move up the income ladder compared with other major American cities.

Urban agriculture is a tool that can restore and revitalize communities. Abbey says… “These young people are looking for love, understanding and empowerment as soon as we concentrate on giving them those three things, the sooner crime will decrease, and we’ll see these people soar.” 

Gangstas to Growers is saying that everyone is worthy of love, knowledge, and economic empowerment.

You can experience the goodness of "Gangstas to Growers" hot sauce "Sweet Sol " here https://webuyblack.com/gangstastogrowers

And stay in touch and in tune with "The Come Up Project" here https://linktr.ee/thecomeupprojectatl

Our guest is Kaylee Brzezinski, sustainability maven for One Tree Planted. As an environmental charity, they are on a mission to make it simple for anyone to help the environment by planting trees.

Did you know ?

A single tree can be home to hundreds of species of insect, fungi, moss, mammals, and plants. Depending on the kind of food and shelter they need, different forest animals require different types of habitat. Without trees, forest creatures would have nowhere to call home.

- Young, Open Forests: These forests occur as a result of fires or logging. Shrubs, grasses, and young trees attract animals like black bears, the American goldfinch, and bluebirds in North America.

- Middle-Aged Forests: In middle-aged forests, taller trees begin to outgrow weaker trees and vegetation. An open canopy allows for the growth of ground vegetation preferred by animals like salamanders, elk, and tree frogs.

- Older Forests: With large trees, a complex canopy, and a highly developed understory of vegetation, old forests provide habitat for an array of animals, including bats, squirrels, and many birds.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second best time is now. 

visit www.onetreeplanted.org and get some dirt under your nails.

Have you ever thought about being a beekeeper ? or want to really understand the role bees play in our world? Well, here is your chance even if you don't think it's for you, to learn the ins and outs of beekeeping. Our guest on this episode is Madison Newman. She is a 22 year old beekeeper born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from California State University Northridge. Madison started her beekeeping profession working as a honey salesperson right out out of high school, and has worked her way up to beekeeper. When she isn't beekeeping you can likely find her hiking, brewing beer, or practicing martial arts. Madison reminds us of the integral part that all of the pollinators play in our ecosystem. Her English literature studies has taught her how to take an analytical approach to the way she handles the many different bee scenarios that she might be up against as a beekeeper, this approach is very beneficial when it comes to managing bee colonies, keeping bees alive and safe for the public. You can check out Maddog's adventures and truly learn a lot by dropping into her IG @maddog586. And if you want to learn more about beekeeping, join a community, or get yourself some local honey be sure to visit www.thevalleyhive.com  ... from tasting honey to viewing bees in a fully functional glass hive, it is the only place of its kind in Southern California. 

Pro-women, pro-girl and pro-family approach to integrated conservation and development make this national park truly “A Park for the People”.

The Gorongosa Project sees people and conservation as two sides of the same coin. Their mission is to advance an integrated multi-partner approach to conservation and to people - centered development.

We will be speaking to Dominique Goncalves, she is a Mozambican ecologist focused on elephant conservation in Gorongosa National Park. Her interest in biodiversity protection and human population increase inspired her to earn her MSC in Conservation Biology at Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) at University of Kent. Gonçalves currently serves as Manager of the Elephant Ecology Project where she investigates elephant movement and range expansion in relation to habitat use and Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC). Working with law enforcement and sustainable development colleagues, she hopes to build coexistence between communities and wildlife throughout the buffer-zone surrounding the park. In addition to this, Gonçalves works closely with park Girls’ Club programs; promoting education and health to prevent early marriage.

The Gorongosa Project protects the Park’s biodiversity and ecosystem services and unlocks its economic potential for the community inhabitants of the Gorongosa Buffer Zone, Sofala Province, Mozambique and further afield. At a time of increasing fragmentation of wild landscapes across Africa, we have an historic opportunity to create an immense, unfenced, connected mosaic of Protected Areas in central Mozambique, comparable in size to the Serengeti Ecosystem.  This landscape is hailed by E.O. Wilson as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.  This healthy landscape will serve as an engine of sustainable economic growth to the people who live around the Park. By adopting a 21st Century conservation model of balancing the needs of wildlife and people, we are protecting and saving this beautiful wilderness, returning it to its rightful place as one of Africa’s greatest parks.

Chloe Buiting, DVM. is an Australian veterinarian and wildlife conservationist who is passionate about our natural world and all the species that inhabit it. Part of her childhood was spent growing up on Australia’s beautiful Lord Howe Island, and it is this time that inspired her to pursue a career in the field of conservation. She serves as Director of Outreach for Loop Abroad, a student travel organization that began with a singular mission: provide the best hands-on study abroad for students pursuing careers working with animals. And just recently, Jungle Doctor Conservation Scholarship funded 71 Maasai students to go on safari to see their wildlife for the first time. Chloe is translating her passion into opportunities designed to benefit and inspire future generations. Buckle up this is one wild ride as Chloe takes us through some of whys of the current universal malaise we are experiencing, including the state of the koala population after the catastrophic Australian bush fires last summer. There are many brilliant minds offering solutions and we will learn about some that are taking place, such as, innovative programs in the fields of 3d printing, green cities, animal translocation and initiatives such as the 30X30 initiative that looks to protect 30% of the land and sea by 2030, and mountain gorilla vaccinations to prevent the spread of shared diseases We also unpack why there is an urgent need to end the illegal wildlife trade. It is a lot to digest, but stick it out… we promise to make you laugh (or cry) when Chloe tells us the funniest if not a tad bit harrowing story of catching a wild giraffe. Chloe is passionate about highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation, and shares her adventures on Instagram as @jungle_doctor and through her website jungledoctor.org

Let's face it sometimes humans make things complex and downright messy. On this episode "these are shoes wear them on your feet" we are talking about communication in the digital world,  zoos educating via virtual reality, the rediscovery of our humility and our need to recognize that we are immersed in Nature. Without Nature there is no existence for Humanity. Our guest is Blane, he grew up in New Zealand and studied and now lives in Australia, He is an architect turned digital conservationist. After many years of study, a couple degrees and some serious reflection on his life... Blane turned a corner. By wanting to help create a better world for the future, bring about awareness to our environment and get others involved with conservation at scale, he created earth.offline. His vastly growing digital world and conservation tribe is a great place to start on a journey for anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge in all things conservation.

Come on thru as we chat it up with conservationist, Erika Teng Gui. This trailblazing 16yr advocate for all things wild has spent a good portion of her teens already working in sanctuaries in her home country of the Philippines. She fell in love with a bird named Brown while caring for the raptor as it recovered from a stroke and was subsequently confined to a life in sanctuary and needing to be hand fed. Erika walks us through some of the day to day activities as well as educates us on some of the dangers the wildlife in the Philippines face as a result of climate change and habitat loss. In this touching conversation Erika shares with us why she maintains her hope for a better world and reminds the youth to have the courage to protect our natural world no matter what other people might think.

Volunteering is great fun, educational and can also be transformative, especially when your subjects are rescued wildlife. Marley and I are chatting it up with Jennie and Aron from "Jennie of the Jungle." A volunteer conservation travel company. We are going to dig deep into the state of conservation and travel these days as well as share with you some very important things to know before visiting a true accredited sanctuary or rescue center, and how there is probably something close at home that you too can be doing for wildlife conservation. 

Be sure to check out www.jennieofthejungle.com when looking for your next volunteering for wildlife experience.