Best Gillian Burke Podcasts (2024)

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19: I would ban GUNS: Tyrique Glasgow (Young Chances Foundation) 58:54

12d ago58:54

58:54

In today's episode, we meet Tyrique Glasgow, a South Philadelphia native who transformed his life from a trajectory marked by gun violence and incarceration to one of community service and mentorship. Tyrique is the founder of the Young Chances Foundation, a community organisation that addresses the deeper systemic issues affecting urban communitie…

1
18: I would get JUSTICE for Grenfell: Ed Daffarn (Grenfell United) 56:44

26d ago56:44

56:44

In this moving and powerful episode, Gillian delves into the Grenfell Tower tragedy with Ed Daffarn, a resident and activist who foresaw the disaster. Ed shares his first-hand account of the events leading up to, during, and following the devastating fire on June 14, 2017, that claimed 72 lives and destroyed 127 homes in West London. Key Takeaways …

1
17: I would create a Gross Gaia Happiness Index: Tim Lenton 48:16

1M ago48:16

48:16

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! What would society look like if we scrapped GDP as a measure of progress? This week, Gillian chats with Professor Tim Lenton, a seasoned expert in Earth System Science from the University of Exeter to find out. We dive into the profound connections between our planet's syst…

1
16: I would catch up with my previous guests. 46:19

2M ago46:19

46:19

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! It’s stock taking time! Today I’m checking in with some of the previous guests on the show to see how they’re getting on and what progress they have made since we last spoke. This episode threw up some real curve balls and I had no idea what to expect! Sit back and relax as…

1
15: I would make HOUSING affordable globally: Juha Kahila (Y-Säätiö) 53:44

2M ago53:44

53:44

Should housing be a human right? Today we delve into a transformative solution to homelessness, inspired by Finland’s success. Our guest, Juha Kahila, brings over a decade of expertise and currently serves as the international coordinator of the Y Foundation (Y-Säätiö) in Finland. This episode explores the Housing First approach, showcasing its eff…

1
14: I would scale AGROFORESTRY across the globe: George Young 1:04:24

3M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Continuing with the food theme… today we explore the vital relationship between agriculture and ecology. Join me as I sit down with George Young, a visionary farmer who has transitioned from conventional to agroecological farming practices. Discover how George integrates bi…

1
13: I would ban JUNK FOOD advertising!: Luke (Bite Back 2030) 52:45

3M ago52:45

52:45

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Enjoying your lunch break? Not so fast… Today, we dive into the pressing issue of junk food marketing and its impact on youth with Luke, an 18-year-old school student, food justice campaigner for Bite Back 2030, and youth parliament member. Join us as Luke shares his journe…

1
12: I would give YOUNG PEOPLE the vote: Craig Bennett (CEO The Wildlife Trusts) 1:07:44

4M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

Good data, good decision making, values and accountability! A recipe for change. Join us as we engage in a profound conversation with Craig Bennett, CEO of The Wildlife Trusts. This episode navigates Craig's journey to becoming a beacon of environmental activism, the intertwining of politics and conservation, and how leadership shapes the course of…

1
11: I would ban post-90's music!: John Boyle 57:00

4M ago57:00

57:00

Brace yourself, as we embark on a voyage through the profound insights and stories of ex-lawyer turned documentary filmmaker John Boyle and an array of personalities. This episode unravels the complex tapestry of global issues—from piracy and environmental crises to revolutionary politics—through the lens of individual experiences. Most importantly…

1
10: I would reduce global energy CONSUMPTION: Mike Webb (Gwent Wildlife Trust) 49:53

5M ago49:53

49:53

Today, we delve into the complex relationship between renewable energy development and biodiversity conservation. Gillian speaks with Mike Webb from the Gwent Wildlife Trust, exploring the nuanced challenges that solar power station developments pose to biodiversity-rich habitats in South Wales and beyond. While recognising the crucial shift toward…

1
9: We would break up BIG TECH!: Rosa Curling & Martha Dark (Foxglove Legal) 1:13:17

5M ago1:13:17

1:13:17

Today, I’m joined by Rosa Curling and Martha Dark from Foxglove, a pioneering digital rights law firm in the UK. Rosa and Martha share their insights into the tech industry's exploitative practices and Foxglove's role in challenging these behaviours to ensure technology serves the greater good. Key Takeaways: The Mission of Foxglove: Introduction t…

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8: “What am I not saying, that I would like to say?” - Change, Justice, & New Perspectives 21:06

6M ago21:06

21:06

Today, is a moment to reflect and express gratitude for our amazing audience & sponsors, and consider the global changes and challenges that have emerged since the inception of the podcast. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel is discussed with strong emphasis on the ever-increasing need for international law to address these issues. I recall co…

1
7: I would stop UNELECTED BILLIONAIRES from ruling the world: Candace Rondeaux 32:24

6M ago32:24

32:24

Today, we explore the complex interplay of social, industrial, and environmental factors in shaping our world. In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by Candace Rondeaux, a distinguished investigative journalist and academic. Candace delves into the pressing issues of climate change, discussing the intricate connections between digitisati…

1
6: We would organise our societies based on NATURE'S LOGIC: Action for Conservation 57:34

6M ago57:34

57:34

Today, we delve into the inspiring world of conservation and intergenerational learning. In this episode, we are joined by Hendrikus van Hensbergen and Hannibal Rhoades, affectionately known as 'Driky' and 'Hal'. Together, they share insights from their work with Action for Conservation (AFC) and the transformative Penpont project, a far-reaching n…

1
5: I would stop destructive INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURE: Edie Mukiibi 42:22

7M ago42:22

42:22

Welcome back to If I Ruled the World! Today, we explore the transformative power of traditional farming practices. In this insightful episode, we're joined by Edie Mukiibi, a Ugandan agronomist, smallholder farmer, and the President of Slow Food International. Eddie brings a passionate perspective on the critical need to embrace traditional agricul…

1
4: I would reconnect humanity with NATURE: Robbie Blackhall-Miles 49:19

7M ago49:19

49:19

Today, we delve into the profound connections between humans and nature. In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Robbie Blackhall-Miles, a renowned botanist, conservation scientist, and Vice President of the Linnean Society of London (Amongst many other things!). Robbie takes us on a journey through his deep bond with the natural world, sharing …

1
1: Introduction: System Change Without Saying “System Change” 17:08

8M ago17:08

17:08

In the inaugural episode of Gillian Burke's podcast, 'If I Ruled the World,' she shares the purpose and planned trajectory of the series. The podcast aims to explore ideas around system change, engaging with change makers across various sectors to discuss how they would enact positive change if they ruled the world. The podcast intends to delve int…

1
2: I would make ECOCIDE an international crime: JoJo Mehta of Stop Ecocide 1:01:38

8M ago1:01:38

1:01:38

In this compelling episode, Gillian welcomes JoJo Mehta, co-founder and Executive Director of Stop Ecocide International. Join us as we explore the pressing concept of 'Ecocide' and its potential recognition as a criminal act under international law. JoJo discusses the transformative impact such legislation could have on environmental practices and…

1
3: I would design a fair future for ALL: Kené Umeasiegbu 45:31

8M ago45:31

45:31

"Never get so far ahead of your army that you look like the enemy”. In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Kéne Umeasiegbu, a sustainability and corporate affairs leader with a rich background extending from Nigeria to international arenas. Listen as Kéne shares profound insights on the interplay of patience, understanding, and community in …

1
Jamie McPherson ‘What I find most exciting is just different ways of telling stories’ 38:57

1+ y ago38:57

38:57

In this final episode of season 3 we go for a West Country wander with wildlife cinematographer Jamie McPherson. We chat about starting in TV, immersive gimbal filming and seeing dinosaurs everywhere. Website https://www.jamiemcpherson.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/byjamiemcpherson/ Twitter https://twitter.com/jamiemcphers0n?lang=en TV Li…

1
Lis Oakham - ‘We do need to ask less of the planet’ 43:07

1+ y ago43:07

43:07

In this week’s episode we go for a wintery wander with award-winning wildlife filmmaker and climate activist Lis Oakham. Along the banks of the Frome we chat about her path into the industry, filming plants and people for The Green Planet and reducing our environmental impact. Twitter: @MsOakham The Green Planet: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0013cl7 L…

1
Bertie Gregory: ‘I’m very lucky that I get to work with great teams’ 41:47

1+ y ago41:47

41:47

Deer, drones & diving! Presenter, filmmaker & explorer Bertie Gregory joins us in this episode for a winter walk in Bristol. We chat about his career, from getting started in the industry to his massive series of ‘Epic Adventures’ for Disney+. TV Epic Adventures: www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/series/epic-adventures-with-bertie-gregory/4As67yVT9IiU Wild …

1
Dan O'Neill: ‘I’m not afraid to be afraid’ 44:29

1+ y ago44:29

44:29

In this episode of the Plodcast we go for a London wander with wildlife filmmaker and presenter Dan O’Neill. In the heart of the capital we chat about Dan’s eclectic passions, from saving snow leopards to exploring Guayana’s Rewa River, making music for Cate Blanchett, and being the first openly LGBTQIA+ natural history presenter to carry a show. T…

1
Dr Rutendo Shackleton: ‘I like when our world and the natural world collide’ 39:06

1+ y ago39:06

39:06

‘Love like a mustard seed!’ In this episode of Natural Wanders we go for a plod with the fantastic conservation scientist and presenter Dr Rutendo Shackleton. While battling the elements in Cheshire, we chat about the social bonds of elephants, sharing space with nature and hosting the BBC Earth podcast. BBC Earth podcast: www.bbcearth.com/podcast …

1
Erland Cooper: ‘What music can do is help communicate stories’ 44:36

1+ y ago44:36

44:36

In this week’s episode of Natural Wanders we meet with Orcadian composer and multi-instrumentalist Erland Cooper. From Stromness to the city of London, we chat about being inspired by the people and nature of his Orkney home, breaking into school and planting an album in the earth. Website: www.erlandcooper.com Spotify: spotify.com/artist/636k3cBTC…

1
Dr George McGavin: 'If we have a salvation, it is in science' 42:14

1+ y ago42:14

42:14

Wasps, beetles, botfly and beyond! In this episode we go for a Hampshire plod with the brilliant entomologist and presenter Dr George McGavin. We chat about incredible insects, his latest book, overcoming a stammer and the wonder of science. George’s new book, All Creatures Small and Great: How Insects Make the World, is available now as an audio b…

1
Tom McDonald: ‘I’ve always felt my job was to be the audience’ 52:53

1+ y ago52:53

52:53

Series 3 has landed! In this first episode of the new series we go for a wander with National Geographic executive vice president, Tom McDonald. In the heart of London we chat about commissioning in today’s TV landscape, avid soap-watching with his family and the solace of nature. Tom McDonald on Linkedin Press: uk.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcdonald-9455…

1
Tom Walker: ‘It’s something that I never want to take for granted’ 38:42

2y ago38:42

38:42

In the last episode of season 2, Mandi meets wildlife cameraman Tom Walker. While wandering on the Somerset coast they chat about capturing landscapes, his journey into the industry and filming hyenas for Dynasties II. Website: www.tomwalkerphotography.co.uk Instagram: instagram.com/tomwalkercam?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Facebook: www.facebook.com/tom.wa…

1
Gillian Burke: ‘A small little moment can alter someone’s course’ 49:49

2y ago49:49

49:49

In a blustery Cornwall we meet biologist, writer and presenter Gillian Burke. We chat about Gillian’s career path from behind to in front of the camera, unpopular options and living like it’s 1999. The Watches: www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000ww4q www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p09y9cpy Website: www.gillianburkevoice.com Instagram: instagram.com/g…

1
Jordan Young: ‘I love Scotland, I love being Scottish’ 42:48

2y ago42:48

42:48

Grease is the word! In this episode I take a walk down memory lane with one of the best-known faces on Scottish Television, the actor Jordan Young. Near his Dunbartonshire home we chew the fat about school days, his roles in River City and Scot Squad and the play that started it all. Twitter: twitter.com/joskyn100 Instagram: www.instagram.com/josky…

1
Kirsty Wark: ‘We are a programme where everybody’s idea is welcome’ 30:55

2y ago30:55

30:55

In the grounds of Pollok House, Mandi searches for signs of spring with one of Britain’s most experienced television journalists, Kirsty Wark. They chat about the history of Pollok, working on Newsnight and raising awareness of issues affecting women of all ages. Twitter: twitter.com/kirstywark?lang=en Instagram: instagram.com/kirsty_wark_/ BBC New…

1
Gavin Thurston: ‘There’s still lots of wild places’ 50:39

2+ y ago50:39

50:39

In this episode we meet with multi-award-winning wildlife cinematographer Gavin Thurston. On his allotment, we chat about storytelling in natural history, filming the deep ocean from a submersible and finding the joy in nature close to home. Instagram: instagram.com/thegavinthurston?utm_medium=copy_link Twitter: twitter.com/GavinThurston Book: www.…

1
Max Cooper: ‘I’m drawn to complexity’ 53:49

2+ y ago53:49

53:49

In this episode we go for a walk in the Kent countryside and a wander into the brilliant mind of Max Cooper. Drawing on his fascination with science and nature, Max is a genuinely unique artist whose live performances combine electronic music and audio-visuals to create a deeply immersive experience. While plodding in the forest we discuss nature a…

1
James Reed: ‘Suddenly I had a job in telly’ 49:33

2+ y ago49:33

49:33

In this episode of Natural Wanders, we meet with director and producer, James Reed. From studying zoology to winning an academy award, we discuss James’ career path and three of his standout films to date; ‘Jago: A life underwater’, ‘Rise of the Warrior Apes and ‘My Octopus Teacher’. Website: https://www.underdog-films.com/ IMDb: https://m.imdb.com…

1
Lucy Cooke: 'Variety is the grit that drives evolution forward’ 50:12

2+ y ago50:12

50:12

Watch out Mr Darwin! In this episode of Natural Wanders we meet with author, presenter and zoologist Lucy Cooke. While plodding in Pett Level, we discuss the influences on Lucy’s career from Darwin to Dawkins and how her new book is redefining evolution and the female animal. Website: www.lucycooke.tv/about/ New Book – Bitch: www.waterstones.com/bo…

1
Jeremy Wade: "Everybody is fascinated by predators” 47:24

2+ y ago47:24

47:24

In this episode of Natural Wanders we meet iconic angler and presenter Jeremy Wade. While walking the banks of his local river we chat about the plight of freshwater, catching River Monsters and how to think like a fish. Website: jeremywade.co.uk Instagram: instagram.com/thisisjeremywade?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook: facebook.com/JeremyWadeOfficia…

1
Lizzie Daly: ‘You totally have a place in the conversation’ 51:48

2+ y ago51:48

51:48

Natural Wanders returns! In this episode of the Plodcast we meet with scientist, presenter, and adventurer Lizzie Daly. Before taking a wintery dip, we chat about her route into broadcasting, her passion for British wildlife and how everyone can be involved in the fight for climate action. Website: https://www.lizziedaly.com/ https://www.josarsby.c…

1
Professor Ben Garrod: 'There's still so much that we can do' 50:43

2+ y ago50:43

50:43

In this second episode of season 2 we go fossil hunting with evolutionary biologist and conservationist, Professor Ben Garrod. While combing the shores of the Severn we chat about being a geek, serving soup to Jane Goodall and what a 1.5 degree rise really means for the planet. https://www.bengarrod.co.uk/about Twitter: @Ben_garrod Instagram: ben_g…

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Gordon Buchanan: ‘What gives me hope’ 57:32

2+ y ago57:32

57:32

The Plodcast is back! In the first episode of season 2 we go for a wander in one of Scotland’s most iconic locations with wildlife cameraman and presenter Gordon Buchanan. On the bonny banks, just a stone’s throw from his home in Glasgow, we chat about land use and rewilding, Gordon’s 30-year career behind and in front of the camera and his hopes f…

1
Giles Clark: 'We have the knowledge' 45:56

3+ y ago45:56

45:56

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! In our last episode of the season, conservationist Giles Clark takes us for a Plod around the Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent as we chat about big cats in captivity, being hands-on and protecting species in the wild.By Mandi Stark

1
Jason Singh: 'You can't put nature in a box and contain it' 48:49

3+ y ago48:49

48:49

Artist Jason Singh takes us for a plod up north, as we chat about the sounds of nature, the power of music and finding his voice.By Mandi Stark

1
John Aitchison: 'I wish we could do more' 48:39

3+ y ago48:39

48:39

In our first Plod on Scottish soil, wildlife cameraman John Aitchison takes us for a wander on the west coast as we chat about belonging, a big bunch of geese and the power of nature.By Mandi Stark

1
Briony Williams: "It's not just a cake" 36:18

3+ y ago36:18

36:18

On your marks, get set, plod! Bake Off's Briony Williams joins us for this episode of the Plodcast as we chat about cakes, disability, mental health and acceptance.By Mandi Stark

1
Sophie Darlington: 'I think we have an emotional connection to beauty' 44:36

4y ago44:36

44:36

Wildlife camerawoman Sophie Darlington joins us for a wander in the rain in our latest Plodcast, as we chat about diversity, how we portray nature and the tree that started it all.By Mandi Stark

1
Marvin Rees: 'Once you're there, you can change things' 48:33

4y ago48:33

48:33

In this episode of the Plodcast, Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees takes us for a wander round his old stomping ground in Eastville Park as we talk childhood adventures, life in politics and being a voice for the voiceless.By Mandi Stark

1
Aldo Kane: 'Everything just went click into place' 44:21

4y ago44:21

44:21

In this episode of the Plodcast, adventurer Aldo Kane takes us for a wander round the Avon Gorge as we chat about life beyond the Commandos, mental health and breaking into TV.By Mandi Stark

1
Steven Price: ‘That, to me, is a sound’ 44:56

4y ago44:56

44:56

In our second Plodcast, composer Steven Price takes us for a wander in Surrey as we chat about his early fascination with music, writing for Sir David Attenborough and his Oscars acceptance speech. To listen to Steven's Natural Wanders playlist click here

1
Joe Sims: 'Life's Short; Act Accordingly' 41:40

4+ y ago41:40

41:40

In our first ever Plodcast, Bristolian actor Joe Sims takes us for a wander around one of his favourite wild spaces as we chat about life, political broadcasts and almost appearing on The Really Wild Show.By Joe Sims

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