In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Erika Tavares shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Angola to a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. She discusses her motivations for pursuing a career in environmental biology, the founding of Eco Angola, and the innovative projects aimed at educating the youth and promoting sustainability. Erika emphasizes the importance of building partnerships with government, NGOs, and local communities to achieve long-term environmental goals. She also addresses the unique challenges faced by women in conservation and offers valuable advice for young environmentalists. With a hopeful vision for Angola's environmental future, Erika calls on listeners to take meaningful action in their communities. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️
In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Ambrose Letoluai shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Northern Kenya to becoming a renowned conservationist and leopard researcher. He discusses the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation, the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, and the empowerment of local communities, especially women, in conservation efforts. Ambrose emphasizes the need for coexistence between wildlife and people, the role of education in fostering future conservation leaders, and the impact of visual storytelling in changing narratives around conservation. He envisions a future where communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts, benefiting from the wildlife with which they coexist, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Enjoy and be Inspired🎙️💚
Happy World Rhino Day!! In this new episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Dr. Philip Muruthi shares his extensive journey in conservation, highlighting the importance of community involvement, innovative solutions, and the need for a holistic approach to wildlife protection. He discusses the successes in rhino conservation, the role of technology, and the significance of educating and inspiring the next generation to engage in conservation efforts. Dr. Muruthi emphasizes the urgent need for action to protect endangered species and the environment for future generations. Enjoy🎙️💚
In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Florence Wakio, a ranger and drone pilot, shares her inspiring journey in wildlife conservation. Growing up in a wildlife-rich area, she felt a responsibility to protect nature. Florence discusses her dynamic role as a ranger, the impact of drone technology on wildlife monitoring and anti-poaching efforts, and the challenges she faces in a male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, memorable experiences in conservation, and the need for more women in the ranger workforce. Florence concludes with a call to action for support in conservation efforts. Enjoy and be inspired💚
In this third episode of the Boots on the Ground special new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', Felix Ongoma emphasizes the importance of local community involvement in conservation efforts. He shares insights on responsible and sustainable tourism, addressing common misconceptions and the role of tourism companies in educating travelers. Felix highlights the need for sustainable practices in lodges and camps, the impact of tourism numbers on visitor experiences, and envisions a future of tourism that is led by passionate youth. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️
In this second episode of our new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', I'm chatting with Adam Bannsiter. Adam shares his journey from a scientific background to becoming a leading wildlife guide and conservationist. He discusses the evolution of ecotourism in East Africa, the importance of ethical guiding, and the need to reshape guest expectations towards more sustainable experiences. Adam emphasizes the role of storytelling in guiding and the challenges posed by social media and over-tourism. He reflects on his successes in wildlife conservation and calls for a collective effort to protect future generations of wildlife. Enjoy and be inspired🎙️💚
In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Mercy Onyango shares her journey from her upbringing in Kenya to her current role as a sustainability manager at Soroi Collection. She discusses the evolution of wildlife tourism, the importance of responsible practices, and the critical role of community engagement in conservation efforts. Mercy emphasizes the need for ethical tourism, the challenges faced in the industry, and the empowerment of women in conservation. She also addresses the impact of climate change on safari tourism and the necessity of integrating conservation into tourism policies for a sustainable future.
Today, we’re joined by Kasaine Sankan, a seasoned carnivore researcher with over a decade of experience studying lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas in the greater Mara ecosystem. From starting out as a research assistant on the Mara Hyena Project to playing a key role in Kenya’s first-ever national predator survey, Kasaine has dedicated his career to understanding and protecting Africa’s iconic predators. Now serving as Assistant Programme Scientist at the Kenya Wildlife Trust’s Mara Predator Conservation Programme, he blends science, community engagement, and conservation action to safeguard these species for generations to come. Enjoy and be inspired.💚🎙️
We’re joined by Dr. Yvonne Githiora — a leading conservation scientist and climate change researcher working at the heart of Africa’s landscapes. From driving community-led research to shaping global REDD+ projects at Wildlife Works, Yvonne brings over a decade of experience connecting biodiversity, climate, and people. She's not just a scientist — she’s a mentor, policy influencer, and public voice for nature and justice. Get ready for an inspiring dive into climate action, community resilience, and the power of knowledge in motion. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️
Meet John Wanyoike Waitara, a raptor ornithologist, conservationist, and birdwatching specialist. From the highlands of Molo to the skies of Kenya, John is on a mission to protect endangered vultures, engage communities, and inspire a new generation of nature stewards. Join us as we explore the skies, the science, and the stories behind Kenya’s incredible birdlife.
Meet Nkateko Mzimba, a powerhouse protector of wildlife and community. At just 32, Nkateko has become a symbol of resilience and leadership. Starting her journey in 2014 with Transfrontier Africa NPC and the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and the Environment, she trained with Pro-Track Anti-Poaching Academy and became one of the original members of the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit—South Africa’s trailblazing all-female ranger team. From braving rhino poaching incursions to rising as a Sergeant, MediaLiaison and Driver, Nkateko, now leads foot and vehicle patrols in Olifants West Nature Reserve, helping keep rhinos safe, without ever carrying a weapon. Listen in and be inspired💚🎙️
In this new episode, I'm talking with Mary Muthoni, a bold voice in environmental justice and governance, international climate delegate, and co-founder of EcoEngage. From COP28 to grassroots forums, she brings powerful stories, sharp insights, and dynamic dialogues that inspire action. Whether you're a changemaker, policymaker, or passionate citizen, this is your space to engage, learn, and lead for nature. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️
In our second special #WorldEnvironmentDay Podcast edition, I'm chatting with Davina Ngei, Programme Manager at the FlipFlopi Project, an East African movement with a mission to end single-use plastic and ensure all other plastics are part of a circular economy. In this Podcast, we talk through her upbringing and education, the theoretical and evidence-based approach of her work, and what she is currently pursuing in Cape Town. We also dive into the FlipFlopi, the FlipFlopi ndogo - the World's first recycled plastic sailing dhow, building sustainable communities, circular economy, education and outreach. Enjoy and be inspired to take action💚🎙️
This #WorldEnvironmentDay, I'm delighted to be talking with Rohan Neel Shah, a 17-year-old 11th-grade student based in Nairobi, Kenya. Growing up in a country where nature, wildlife, and the outdoors are part of everyday life has deeply influenced his worldview. Since the age of two, his parents have taken him to Kenya’s national parks, instilling in him a profound love and passion for nature and conservation. We talk through his upbringing, love for photography, Jeffrey Wu's mentorship, and the sort of values that drive his craft. We also dive into Plastiki Rafiki, a non-profit student-led club at the International School of Kenya that is turning plastics into a resource while providing livelihoods for local people through creative manufacturing and product design. Enjoy and be inspired to take action.💚🎙️
Join us as we track the inspiring path of Dr. Robert Aruho — wildlife veterinarian, conservation leader, and head of Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. From translocating endangered species across Africa to leading the Mountain Bongo reintroduction in Kenya, Dr. Aruho shares his passion for preserving biodiversity, empowering communities, and keeping conservation wild at heart. Enjoy💚🎙️
Today’s guest is Victoria Wanjohi — a wildlife conservation scientist, award-winning filmmaker, and storytelling force based in Nairobi, Kenya. With over a decade of experience across Africa, Victoria uses the power of narrative to connect communities, especially youth, to the heart of conservation and climate action. As the visionary behind Biophilic Conversations and Nyika Silika Productions, and the Director of Storytelling at the TonyWild Foundation, she’s transforming how the world hears African conservation stories. Tune in as we explore how tradition, science, and storytelling can drive real impact for people and the planet. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️
In this podcast, I'm chatting with Siana Phillips, the head of Impact at Ocean Sole, here in Kenya. She shares her incredible journey, growing up in Samburu County in Kenya where she developed her creative mind and love for community. That path later led her to Ocean Sole where she is using her skills and experiences in grassroots conservation to community empowerment and education. Listen in and hear more about Ocean Sole, a Kenyan Organization turning flip-flops in art while working hand in hand with the local people to achieve their mission in Education, Community, and Conservation. Enjoy and be inspired to take action💚🎙️
A survivor of female genital mutilation (FGM), Sereti Nabaala turned her personal experience into a mission to protect and empower young girls. In 2019, while still in university, she founded the Matasaru Ntoyie Pastoralist Foundation, which has since supported the education of FGM and forced marriage survivors, provided menstrual hygiene supplies to over 2,000 girls, and empowered young mothers with skills and reproductive health knowledge. With seven years of experience in grassroots activism, policy work, and community engagement, Sereti is a powerful voice for gender equality and a symbol of resilience. Today, she joins us to share her journey, the challenges she has faced, and her vision for a future where every girl has the right to education, choice, and dignity. EnjoyEnjoy🎙️💚
Hello Good people!! In this new episode, I'm chatting with Jana Woerner, a Ph.D student with the Mara Hyena Project at Michigan State University where she studies the hunting behavior of spotted hyenas and its impact on their space use and movement decisions.
We talk about her childhood, career, fieldwork, her time at the Mara Hyena Project, all things hyenas, and her mentorship work. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️
In this new podcast, I'm chatting with Rebecca Stephens, MBE, the first British woman to summit Everest and the first British woman to climb the Seven Summits, the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. We talk through her childhood and upbringing in the UK, her experiences summiting Everest and what being on top of the world for five minutes felt like, her time leading mountaineering tours across the World, and how those contribute to local tourism and conservation efforts. We also dive into climate change and its impacts on glaciers and high-altitude mountaineering, as well as her leadership coaching and consulting journey and the lessons she applies from her experiences on the mountains. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️
