Best Wildlife Charity Podcasts (2024)

1
Compassion in Healthcare & Flourishing with Dr. David Addiss 33:00

4d ago33:00

33:00

In today’s episode, we welcome Dr. David Addiss, an expert in public health and preventive medicine. Dr. Addiss has spent his career thinking not only about science, but about service. In his early career, he cared for the health of migrants in the San Joaquin Valley of California, then later worked for nearly two decades the Centers for Disease Co…

1
Ep. 029: Failure and Success: 12 Months of Rewilding at the Grange Project 42:36

5d ago42:36

42:36

For both new and regular listeners, we cover everything you need to know about the Grange Project one year in. Whether you’re interested in the physical changes, how we intend to finance the project or our vision for nature education, we hope you find value in our enthusiasm! **Sign up for the newsletter at www.grangeproject.co.uk** Your Hosts: Tom…

1
Whale Song & Alien Intelligence with Dr. Laurance Doyle and Dr. Fred Sharpe 36:15

18d ago36:15

36:15

Today’s episode features the collaborative exploration of Dr. Fred Sharpe, an expert in humpback whales and the Principal Investigator with the Alaska Whale Foundation, and Dr. Laurance Doyle, astrophysicist and Principal Investigator of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute. Drs. Sharpe and Doyle are investigating humpback …

1
Ep. 028: People and Technology in Rewilding with Simon Roper 46:55

1M ago46:55

46:55

In this interview with Simon Roper, we debate the problems and possibilities of technology in rewilding, covering everything from the latest innovations to whether technology ever could, or should, replace boots in the ground. Whether you’re a self described technology geek or living a low tech lifestyle, the debates in this episode offer something…

1
War Child with Dr. Mark Jordans 27:31

1M ago27:31

27:31

Over our last couple of episodes, we’ve told the inspiring story of decades of positive transformation the nation of Rwanda has sustained since the catastrophic 1994 genocide against the Tutsis. We learned that Rwanda’s peacemakers have for decades nurtured a culture of reconciliation and resilience, cultivating communities where citizens flourish.…

1
Invasive species, red squirrels and stories from Carstramon Wood 42:45

1M ago42:45

42:45

In our final episode, we find out more about invasive non-native species (INNS). To start, Ed chats to Hazel Forrest, Species Advocacy Officer at the Trust, to find out more about INNS and the threat the pose to native wildlife. We then hear from some of the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels team about the vital work they are carrying out across Scot…

1
Conservation in Cumbernauld, the Falls of Clyde and folk tales from Largiebann 42:14

2M ago42:14

42:14

In our sixth episode, we explore wellbeing and nature. We start by hearing about the work of the Cumbernauld Living Landscape and how important it is to connect to nature every now and then. We then head to the Falls of Clyde for a walk up to the waterfall of Cora Linn. Finally, we hear from poet, writer and historian, Angus Martin, who recounts so…

1
Snorkel trails, the mudflats of Montrose and the community that bought an island 49:09

2M ago49:09

49:09

Ed and Rachel head to the beach! In this episode, we hear from the our Living Seas team on the Trust’s marine policy and engagement work. We take a look back at the historical community buyout of the Isle of Eigg and hear how the island is being managed for both people and wildlife. And we head across to the east coast for a walk on the tidal mudfl…

1
Ep. 027: Future Farms with Our Food 1200 45:07

2M ago45:07

45:07

In the context of carbon emissions related to imported foods, increasing food insecurity, pollution from intensive farming and corporate monopolies, maybe it's time we reimagined the future of farming in the UK? Duncan Fisher eloquently describes how Our Food 1200 / Ein Bwyd 1200 are working to build a reliable and affordable supply of food for all…

1
The Science of Forgiveness, with Freddy Mutanguha and Dr. Elizabeth Dowling 21:37

2M ago21:37

21:37

In our last episode, we met Rwandan leader Freddy Mutanguha, who shared his remarkable journey to finding meaning and forgiveness after dozens of his family members, including his parents and sisters, were murdered during the genocide against the Tutsis in 1994. Freddy’s powerful and timely testimony underscored the importance of truth, remembrance…

1
Nectar networks, conservation grazing and a walk round Shewalton Wood 42:29

2M ago42:29

42:29

In this episode, Ed and Rachel investigate the Trust’s work with grazing and pollinators. We start with a walk at Shewalton Wood Wildlife Reserve in Ayrshire to discover how the site has been transformed from a landfill to a thriving site for nature. Ed has a chat to our conservation shepherd, Laura MacGregor, to find out more about the role livest…

1
Peatlands, nature-based solutions and creating a nature network in Edinburgh 38:55

2M ago38:55

38:55

In our third episode, the Trust's Terrestrial Policy Manager, Rebekah Strong, explains how nature can provide solutions to some of our problems. Ed speaks with Leo Charlesworth about the pioneering Edinburgh Nature Network and we hear from Julian Warman on the importance of the Trust's lowland raised bog reserves. Words of the Wild is a podcast fro…

1
Ep. 026: What have the Wildlife Trusts ever done for us? 46:24

3M ago46:24

46:24

James Hitchcock, CEO of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, takes us on a big picture journey in this week’s episode. Covering a range of topics including the role of the Wildlife Trusts, the relationship between Wales and rewilding and the conception of his dream project, Wilder Pentwyn Farm. ********* SIGN UP for the VOLUNTEERS DAY: https://www.grangepro…

1
Riverwoods, beavers and stories from our largest wildlife reserve 39:19

3M ago39:19

39:19

Ed and Rachel head to the woods as we hear from some of the people involved in the Riverwoods project. We take a look back at the Scottish Beaver Trial and some of the impacts it continues to have on conservation today. We then head back north to hear some of the stories of Ben Mor Coigach. Kenny Taylor explores some of the stories of the area and …

1
Forgiveness & Reconciliation in Post-Genocide Rwanda with Freddy Mutanguha 36:44

3M ago36:44

36:44

Today’s episode offers a powerful example of courage, peace, and forgiveness. Our story looks back thirty years, to one of the most violent periods in modern history — the genocide against the Tutsi — and to the resilience and wisdom of the Rwandan spirit and heart. On April 6, 1994, beautiful Rwanda, known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, became a…

1
Origins, ospreys and one of the largest landscape-scale projects in Europe 44:09

3M ago44:09

44:09

In the first episode, we talk to the Chief Executive, Jo Pike, about the past, present and future of the Scottish Wildlife Trust. We also explore the Coigach and Assynt Living Landscape, one of the largest landscape-scale projects in Europe and head to Loch of the Lowes where the Trust’s Chair, Kenny Taylor, chats to some of our volunteers about th…

1
Ep. 025: Finding Your Tribe with Rewilding Training 1:00:07

3M ago1:00:07

1:00:07

The foundations of this rich episode are a conversation with Laura Fairs, the Lead Facilitator and Co-Creator of the Embercombe Rewilding Training. We discuss the history of the training, the key subjects covered in the training and the importance of inclusivity and diversity. It was then our pleasure to host alumni from the 2023 course: Claudia, O…

1
Ep. 024: Keystone Species - Beavers 41:27

4M ago41:27

41:27

Why do beavers create dams? How do they enhance the ecosystem around them? What is getting in the way of their return? As a Project Officer with the Welsh Beaver Project, Alicia Leow-Dyke is the perfect guest to introduce us to the beaver and their importance within the British Landscape. ********* SIGN UP for the COMMUNITY DAY: https://www.grangep…

1
Wildlife Intelligence Explorers with Dr. Ian Miller, Dr. Felicity Muth, Dr. Tiago Falótico & Dr. Mauricio Cantor 35:27

4M ago35:27

35:27

In our last episode, we spent time with the extraordinary Dr. Jane Goodall, primatologist, writer, speaker, and conservationist. Dr. Goodall previewed today's episode, featuring the three recipients of the Wildlife Intelligence Project, a $2.7 million joint initiative between National Geographic Society and Templeton World Charity Foundation design…

1
Changing the World with Dr. Jane Goodall 22:04

4M ago22:04

22:04

In today’s episode, we hear from leader and luminary Dr. Jane Goodall, who has, for decades, made significant contributions to not only the scientific world, but to, arguably, the entire planet. When 26-year-old, British-born Jane Goodall began field studies of primates in Tanzania in July 1960, she was the first researcher to observe chimpanzees i…

1
Ep. 023: There will be Leaves on the Mountain Again with Rob Penn 49:45

4M ago49:45

49:45

Rob graciously takes us back to woodland basics in this fascinating episode as we consider the role of trees in addressing the climate and ecological crises. We discuss the unique opportunities presented by the Welsh uplands, the (successful) efforts of bracken to take over the world and the innovative techniques developed by Stump up For Trees as …

1
Integrated Education with Emma Black, Calum Irvine, Sean Spillane, and students Bashanti, Dylan, Emma, Laila, Nina & Sophie 31:33

5M ago31:33

31:33

Today we bring you a follow-up story about revolutionary education in Northern Ireland, this time exploring the impact of teaching young children to not just tolerate difference and diversity, but to seek it out, embrace it, and celebrate it. Our episode explores the history and legacy of Lough View Integrated Primary and Nursery School, a school f…

1
Ep. 022: Rewilding London with Citizen Zoo 47:57

5M ago47:57

47:57

Are you one of the 84.4% of the population that live in an urban setting? In this episode, Elliot and Digby from Citizen Zoo tell us about rewilding projects across London, including the reintroductions of water voles and beavers. We hear about some of the unexpected impacts of these projects, the opportunity to create nature friendly ‘cities of th…

1
Diverse Intelligences Surprises with Dr. Paco Calvo, Dr. Marcelo Magnasco & Dr. Diana Reiss 28:09

5M ago28:09

28:09

Today we're back for another exploration of the magnificence and mystery of the universe — talking with three researchers who share not only a passion, but a respect for the species in their decidedly non-human, wildly intelligent subjects of research. First we meet Dr. Paco Calvo, a renowned cognitive scientist and professor of philosophy of scien…

1
Ep. 021: Save the Curlew, Save the World with Mary Colwell 46:47

5M ago46:47

46:47

In this inspirational conversation, we start off with the story of the curlew and end up discussing the importance of ‘nature literacy’. Mary’s creativity, passion and determination shine through as we hear about her historic campaign for the curlew, driving forward the natural history GCSE and her hopes for a nature pathway throughout our educatio…

1
Diverse Intelligences Surprises with Dr. Frans de Waal & Dr. Michael Levin 29:43

6M ago29:43

29:43

In today's episode, we meet Dr. Frans de Waal, Emory University and Utrecht University primatologist Dr. Frans de Waal, a trailblazer in the science of animal cognition, and Dr. Michael Levin, distinguished professor of biology at Tufts University and associate faculty member at Harvard's Wyss Institute. Both researchers’ work roots them deeply in …

1
Ep. 020: Heal Rewilding - New Spaces for Nature with Jan Stannard 49:53

6M ago49:53

49:53

Join the journey of Heal Rewilding as we hear about the mission of the charity, the acquisition of their first site and progress a year later. Jan Stannard, Founder Trustee and Acting CEO, clearly describes the many decisions made by the charity over the last year and the importance of new spaces for nature. We loved the ambition, the insights shar…

1
Humor in Apes 23:20

6M ago23:20

23:20

Any sentient, soulful being paying attention to the way humans are treating other humans has been feeling these hard times. But sometimes, amidst all this darkness, humor can offer a little bit of hope. Today we're back with a friend of the podcast, Dr. Erica Cartmill. You might remember her from past episodes as a leader in the science of diverse …

1
Ep. 019: Eat food, not too much, mostly plants with Frank Holleman 46:37

6M ago46:37

46:37

In this delightful chat with Frank, we start to make sense of why our relationship to food is so critical for the climate. We explore a range of topics including the scary impact of food waste, the challenge of our meat and dairy consumption and the role of social tipping points. As well as the science, Frank also shares with us his vision of the ‘…

1
AI & Ethics 28:55

7M ago28:55

28:55

Artificial intelligence is proliferating and entering new industries every day. And while it’s been used in healthcare for 50 years, researchers continue to look for new ways to use it to improve care. Today, we’re back in conversation with a team of researchers, including a philosopher, a neuroscientist, and a computer scientist. This trio might b…

1
Ep. 018: Rewilding in Semi-Urban Environments with Stephen Mason 47:03

7M ago47:03

47:03

As the majority of the UK population lives within an urban environment, it’s critical that ‘wilder nature’ is not the privilege of the rural landscape. Stephen Mason, Community Parks Officer at Cheltenham Borough Council, shares practical examples of what rewilding can look like in a semi-urban context, how to bring people along with the journey an…

1
How Adversarial Collaboration Makes Better Science & Better Scientists 37:55

7M ago37:55

37:55

In the dozens of episodes we’ve shared with you over the last four years, you’ve heard stories of experts examining the science behind everything from bees to whales, video games to dance, education systems to communication networks. Today, we're zooming out further, speaking with researchers who are exploring ways to improve how we do science and …

1
Community stories: SOS Leith – How one community is raising its voice to clean up their river 18:44

7M ago18:44

18:44

After fears over the safety of local waterways, a group of residents in Leith banded together to make a change. Listen to the story of SOS Leith and how a group of local people are now working to clean up the Waters of Leith. This episode was recorded as part of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project, funded by the National Lottery H…

1
Community stories: The Isle of Eigg – How a community bought an island 30:24

7M ago30:24

30:24

In 1997, the Isle of Eigg was bought by its local community. Listen to the story of how the Isle of Eigg community is managing the space for people and wildlife. This episode was recorded as part of the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Production by Bespoken Media.…

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Ep. 017: (re)Wild the Boar with Chantal Lyons 49:30

8M ago49:30

49:30

Chantal’s passion for the wild boar exudes throughout this interview as we discuss the role the boar plays in habitat-regeneration, the challenge they present for their human neighbours and how they might just be rewilding us? Following the success of her recently published book ‘Groundbreakers - The return of Britain’s wild boar’, Chantal indulged…

1
Ubuntu & Youth Radio Reporters with Nina Callaghan 50:35

8M ago50:35

50:35

This week we're bringing back one of our favorite ever episodes. Today, we hear a fascinating and inspiring conversation having to do with the flourishing of young South Africans. Today’s episode features Richard’s conversation with Nina Callaghan, former Associate Director and current South African Chair of Children’s Radio Foundation. In a post-a…

1
Youth and Truth in Northern Ireland 41:03

8M ago41:03

41:03

War and conflict is raging across the globe. From Europe and the Middle East to Africa and the Americas, divisions between and within nations are leaving civilians dead and displaced. Northern Ireland has seen its fair share of violence and bloodshed since its founding in 1921. Although the Good Friday peace agreement was signed more than 25 years …

1
Ep. 016: Growing for the future with Green Up Farm 45:31

8M ago45:31

45:31

Toni, co-founder of Green Up Farm, takes us through everything you need to know about indoor hydroponic vertical farming: from what you need to get started, routes to market and the challenges of being zero waste. We loved this episode for Toni’s transparency and the strength of the values which underpin the success of Green Up Farm. ************ S…

1
Ep. 015: Generation Wilder 41:44

9M ago41:44

41:44

The UK’s ecological health is in the bottom 10% on earth and over 80% of UK young people are eager to take action to help the environment, but only 1 in 5 believe they are being listened to on environmental issues. Jack and Noah share the story of Youngwilders, which exists to turn these statistics around. Listen to them talk about youth engagement…

1
Coming Alongside: Chaplains of Change 21:41

9M ago21:41

21:41

Before we ended 2023 we met two researchers, Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas and Dr. Timothy Lomas, who shared their research on human flourishing, and each touched on the importance of human connection and relationship as an antidote to loneliness. In our first episode of this new year, we continue that conversation, this time by exploring the unique ro…

1
Ep. 014: The Moments that Shaped Us 21:50

9M ago21:50

21:50

As we look forward into 2024, Tom and Chloe have reflected on the Wilder Podcast back catalogue and selected six moments which particularly resonated from them. Whether you’re a regular listener who’d enjoy a reminder, or a new recruit who’s interested in what the Wilder Podcast is all about, we hope you take something away from our conversation. W…

1
Hunting Stories with Armando Martinez (The Bow Hitch) 1:20:44

9M ago1:20:44

1:20:44

In this episode, Stephen talks with Armando Martinez, the co-inventor of "The Bow Hitch. Armando discusses "The Bow Hitch" and how they developed the concept. You can find out more about "The Bow Hitch" at https://thebowhitch.com. Also, check out "The Solution Rifle Sling" to carry your gun. You can follow Stephen on Facebook by searching for steph…

1
Ep. 013: Can we even 'REWILD' in the UK?! 51:27

10M ago51:27

51:27

Is rewilding in the UK even possible? Why are terms important? What is rewilding anyway? In this episode we are joined by academic expert in rewilding, Dr Stephen Carver, as we discuss the role of human intervention, our desire for an ‘outcome’ and the challenges of rewilding in the UK. Our Guest Dr Carver is a Geographer and Senior Lecturer at the…

1
Restoring the American Chestnut Tree with Dr. William Powell and Rex Mann 30:34

10M ago30:34

30:34

We’re celebrating the life of our friend Dr. William Powell, who passed away just before Thanksgiving. Dr. Powell’s American Chestnut Tree episode was one of our favorites of last year. This episode is an inspiring story about how bringing together vision, community, and cutting-edge science can make the impossible possible. It’s a story about Amer…

1
Ep. 012: DIY Nature Reserve 52:14

10M ago52:14

52:14

Covering everything from the scientific theory of rewilding (diversity, disturbance and distribution!) to the art of tree planting on his very own nature reserve, the inspirational communicator that is Chris D'Agorne will leave you both enthused and resourced to enhance biodiversity in your own green space. Our Guest Chris is an entrepreneur and a …

1
Holistic Flourishing 24:39

10M ago24:39

24:39

Last time you heard from us, Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas shared her research on the complexity of the loneliness epidemic in America today, and what we all can do to feel less lonely. Something she said — “Everyone's happiness matters to my happiness” — stuck with us, and became the springboard for this episode. Today, together with psychology resear…

1
Ep. 011: What is COP 28 and why should we care? 39:25

11M ago39:25

39:25

As one of the key mechanisms of international action to address climate change, this episode covers everything you need to know about the COP: why it exists, what happens during the COP, the critiques of the process and what we should look out for at COP 28. ‘We can’t really afford not to engage with the COP, and not to drive the movement to lower …

1
Solving the Loneliness Epidemic 27:31

11M ago27:31

27:31

It’s Thanksgiving week in the United States, and this Thursday, many of us will be with friends and family for the kick-off to six weeks of holiday cheer. But for so many people in America, the holidays can be a very lonely time. Loneliness and disconnection have consequences not only for individual health, but for the health of the nation. Dr. Emi…

1
Hunting Stories with Robert "Roo" Heed(Outdoor Insiders) 1:29:01

11M ago1:29:01

1:29:01

In this episode, Stephen visits with Robert Heed from Outdoor Insiders in New Milford, PA. You can learn more about Outdoor Insiders on their instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/outdoorinsiders/. Or visit their website at https://www.outdoorinsiders.com/. You can follow Stephen on Facebook by searching for stephenrobbinshd or on Instagram a…

1
Ep. 010: Landscape of Hope: Lynbreck Croft 54:39

11M ago54:39

54:39

Sharing the wisdom generated over recent years of wilder farming on a 150 acre croft in the Cairngorms, Lyn Cassell’s reflects on the importance of connection to the land, holistic living and the principles of wilder regenerative farming. We leave inspired and full of admiration for the pioneering work at Lynbreck Croft, we hope you do too? Your Ho…

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Wildlife Charity Podcasts

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