Join us on this inspiring episode of Nature Talks as we sit down with Bilal Mustafa FLS FRGS — the first Pakistani selected on a full scholarship to join WildCRU at the University of Oxford. A Fellow of the Linnean Society of London and the Royal Geographical Society, Bilal brings a unique blend of historical insight, community engagement, and scientific rigor to the world of wildlife conservation.
🔍 In this episode, we explore:
🦁 The historical distribution of carnivores and what archives reveal about human-wildlife relationships
🕌 How different cultures and religions shaped interactions with large predators
🐊 The bold reintroduction of the critically endangered gharial to Pakistan's Indus River
🌱 The power of optimism in conservation and the role of communities in coexisting with wildlife
🏔 Bilal's upcoming DPhil research on the impacts of tourism on Snow Leopards in Gilgit-Baltistan
Whether you're a conservationist, researcher, or just passionate about biodiversity, this episode offers hope, insight, and a call to action.
🎧 Available on all major platforms | Subscribe & support optimistic conservation!
👉 Support Bilal's DPhil journey:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-bilal-to-secure-dphil-at-christ-church-oxford-1
📸 Instagram: @itswildbilal
🔗 LinkedIn: Bilal Mustafa's Profile
In this episode of Nature Talks, we sit down with Oliver Dauert – founder of Wildya, LinkedIn Top Green Voice, and biodiversity builder – to explore how we turn eco-anxiety into real-world nature impact.
Oliver’s bold mission? Help 1,000,000 minds shift, 1,000,000 kg of plastic removed, 1,000,000 corals restored, and 1,000,000 bison rewilded. No greenwashing. No gimmicks. Just measurable biodiversity wins.
After a successful corporate career across e-commerce and tourism, a quarter-life crisis and rising eco-anxiety led Oliver to radically change course. Now, through Wildya, he’s helping ecopreneurs—founders of nature-first businesses and NGOs—get the visibility, funding, and momentum they need to grow wild ideas into planet-healing realities.
We talk about:
🌍 How Oliver turned personal eco-anxiety into action—and how you can too
🦁 The founding of Wildya and what an “impact millionaire” truly means
📱 How ecopreneurs can leverage personal branding and digital storytelling to fuel nature-positive change
🛠 Practical actions anyone can take to restore biodiversity and rewild our world
💡 The future vision for Wildya—like a Duolingo for biodiversity restoration
Oliver has consulted over 21 ecopreneurs, helped generate 16.7M+ impressions for nature-positive content, and built a community of 37,000+ biodiversity builders. His work has already restored ecosystems, shifted mindsets, and created ripple effects across the conservation world.
🎧 Whether you're a conservationist, eco-founder, policy wonk, or just nature-curious—this episode will inspire and empower you to take bold steps toward a wilder, more biodiverse planet.
🔗 Learn more about Wildya & apply for the next ecopreneur cohort: https://wildya.earth
📚 Co-author of bestselling book on sustainable business
🏅 LinkedIn Top Green Voice | Climate Pact Ambassador
🌿 Nature Talks is a podcast hosted by Erfan Firouzi, dedicated to exploring the stories and strategies behind conservation, biodiversity, and environmental change. Past guests include changemakers like Dr. Jane Goodall.
#millionaire #wildlife #podcast
Join host Erfan Firouzi in a compelling new episode featuring Prakash Matada, award-winning wildlife filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer. From the breathtaking film Flying Elephants – A Mother’s Hope to global collaborations with BBC, Apple TV+, and Discovery, Prakash shares his incredible journey in using visual storytelling to drive conservation impact.
🎙 What You'll Discover in This Episode
How Prakash’s childhood love for wildlife led to a filmmaking career
The inspiration behind Flying Elephants and emotional moments during the shoot
How the film reached 100 million people globally
Insights from working with BBC, Apple TV+, and Discovery
His current Nat Geo project creating educational content for youth in conflict zones
Technical and emotional challenges of wildlife filmmaking
The power of storytelling in shaping public conservation values
Advice for aspiring wildlife storytellers
A personal message to young nature lovers and changemakers
📺 Watch Prakash’s Work
Search YouTube for: Flying Elephants – A Mother’s Hope
Visit his website: prakashmatada.com
Explore more films and documentaries by searching “Prakash Matada Wildlife Filmmaker” on YouTube and Vimeo
🔗 Connect with Prakash
Instagram: @prakashwildlife
Instagram Portfolio: @prakashmatada
Twitter (X): @prakashmatada
Website: prakashmatada.com
🌍 Support Conservation
Learn about the National Geographic Explorer program: nationalgeographic.com/explorers
Support elephant protection initiatives: search “Save the Elephants organization”
📢 Like, Subscribe & Share
If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who cares about wildlife and our planet’s future.
#planetearthIII #FlyingElephants #PrakashMatada
In this inspiring episode of Nature Talks, host Erfan Firouzi sits down with Cash Daniels, famously known as The Conservation Kid, a passionate freshwater conservationist who began leading river cleanups at just 7 years old. 🌊💚
We explore:
Cash’s journey into conservation and what sparked his fight against plastic pollution
Why protecting freshwater ecosystems is urgent and often overlooked
The power and impact of youth-led environmental action
Overcoming challenges as a young advocate
The ripple effect of small actions creating global change
Whether you're an aspiring environmentalist or someone who believes in the power of purpose, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take action. 🌍✨
📢 Follow Cash Daniels and support his work:
Instagram: @theconservationkid
Website: www.theconservationkid.com
Email: theconservationkid@gmail.com
🎧 Nature Talks is streamed in over 30 countries and features voices shaping the future of conservation — from grassroots heroes to global icons like Dr. Jane Goodall.
#conservation #youth #river
In this powerful episode of Nature Talks, host Erfan Firouzi speaks with Maria Hashmi — founder of Little Rebels Nature Camp. A National Geographic Explorer and passionate conservationist, Maria shares her extraordinary journey of igniting environmental awareness among youth, rescuing injured wildlife, and leading grassroots efforts to protect Pakistan’s rich biodiversity.
Tune in to discover:
The origin story of Little Rebels and Second Chance Wildlife
How youth engagement is reshaping conservation in Pakistan
The realities of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation
Innovative solutions to human-wildlife conflict
How climate change is impacting regional species
Ways you can contribute to conservation efforts from anywhere in the world
🔗 Follow Maria’s Work:
National Geographic Explorer Profile: https://explorers.nationalgeographic.org/directory/maria-hashmi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebelzoologist/
Whether you’re a budding conservationist or a curious listener, this episode will leave you inspired to take action for our planet’s future.
🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.
Subscribe and stay tuned for more stories that celebrate our natural world and the people protecting it.
In this thought-provoking episode of Nature Talks, host Erfan Firouzi sits down with Zach Schmitt—a storyteller, systems thinker, and climate communicator dedicated to reshaping the way we understand and respond to the climate crisis.
Together, they explore the power of narrative in driving systemic change, the role of young leaders in reframing climate justice, and how authentic storytelling can shift public imagination and policy. Zach shares his journey into environmental advocacy, his work in movement building, and why stories rooted in justice, empathy, and community are essential tools in the fight for a livable future.
Follow Zach's work and insights:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/imzach_schmitt
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/zach-schmitt-9ab23525b/
Tune in for a conversation filled with clarity, vision, and a deep call to action—where climate meets creativity, and resistance takes root in storytelling.
In this thought-provoking episode of Nature Talks, host Erfan Firouzi sits down with the extraordinary Dr. Ally Zlatar, acclaimed artist, scholar, and activist, to explore the powerful intersection of art, environmental justice, and mental health. Together, they unravel how creative expression can shape narratives around climate change, human rights, and ecological grief.💬 This episode delves deep into:• The role of art in environmental activism• Mental health and body politics in the climate crisis• Ally’s global initiatives like The Starving Artist and This Body of Mine• Erfan's reflections on youth advocacy, biodiversity, and hope for our planetThis episode is a raw, honest, and hopeful conversation about how storytelling, advocacy, and personal experience intertwine in the fight for a better world.🔗 Connect with Dr. Ally Zlatar:Instagram: @allyzlatarWebsite: https://allyz.cargo.siteTwitter/X: @AllyZlatar🌍 Hosted by Erfan Firouzi, award-winning environmentalist, founder of The Wildlife Focus, and passionate storyteller amplifying voices of change.📲 Follow Nature Talks for more inspiring conversations with changemakers shaping the future of our planet.
Join host Erfan Firouzi in this extraordinary episode of Nature Talks as he shares his unforgettable experience meeting the legendary Dr. Jane Goodall. Through an interactive format, this episode brings Dr. Goodall’s inspiring words to life, weaving in her powerful Roots & Shoots speech alongside personal interactions, reflections, and a heartfelt gift exchange. From discussing hope, biodiversity, and conservation to honoring her lifelong dedication to protecting nature, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the environment. Tune in and be inspired to take action—because where there is biodiversity, there is hope!
In this episode of "Nature Talks," Erfan Firouzi sits down with Dr. Juan, a passionate marine scientist and conservation pioneer, to explore pressing issues affecting our oceans today. Dr. Juan shares his extensive experience leading coral rehabilitation initiatives, conducting baseline surveys, and mapping habitats in marine protected areas. The discussion dives into the world of sea turtles in the UAE, the intricacies of coral reefs, and the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. Dr. Juan also talks about his groundbreaking work in establishing the world's largest field coral nursery and conceptualizing marine habitats for underwater resorts using artificial reef structures. He highlights the importance of public awareness, education, and the innovative technologies that can drive sustainable blue economy development. Tune in to hear about Dr. Juan's commitment to safeguarding ocean health through interdisciplinary collaboration, leadership, and a relentless passion for marine conservation. This episode offers valuable insights into how we can protect our marine ecosystems for future generations. #UAE #coralreef #seaturtles
Welcome to Nature Talks, where we dive deep into the world of biodiversity, conservation, and the natural wonders of our planet. Hosted by Erfan Firouzi, a passionate naturalist and award-winning storyteller, this podcast brings together experts, advocates, and enthusiasts from around the globe to explore pressing environmental issues, share inspiring stories, and discuss innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Each episode features engaging conversations with evolutionary biologists, conservationists, and other field experts, offering valuable insights and fostering a greater understanding of the intricate web of life. Whether you're a seasoned environmentalist or just starting your journey into nature conservation, Nature Talks provides thought-provoking content designed to educate, inspire, and empower you to make a positive impact on our planet. Join us as we unravel the stories behind our natural world and discover how we can all contribute to its preservation. Trailer Audio by Ellie Gouding - Our Planet Netflix
In this enlightening episode of the Nature Talks podcast, host Erfan Firouzi is joined by expert Dr. Andrej to explore the critical effects of pollution on elasmobranchs—sharks, rays, and skates. Discover how plastic pollution and chemical contaminants are influencing the health of these vital marine species, making them more susceptible to diseases. Join us as we dive deep into: - The significance of elasmobranchs in marine ecosystems - Real-life examples and research findings linking pollution to disease development - The interplay of pollutants with climate change and habitat degradation - The broader ecological consequences of disease outbreaks in elasmobranch populations - Conservation strategies informed by understanding pollution's impact - The role of policymakers in mitigating pollution effects - How you can contribute to reducing pollution and supporting marine life Gain insights into ongoing research, collaborative efforts, and educational outreach aimed at raising awareness and inspiring action. Listen to Andrej's personal experiences and success stories that bring hope for positive change. Join the movement to rewild the planet and live sustainably. Subscribe now and be part of the solution to protect elasmobranchs and marine ecosystems from pollution's harmful effects. 🔗 Explore further details (https://thewildlifefocus.com/) 📸 Follow my journey ( / erfanfirouzi ) #NatureTalks #Podcast #MarineConservation #Elasmobranchs #Pollution #Biodiversity #SustainableLiving #WildlifeFocus #ErfanFirouzi
“Human beings are members of a whole
In the creation of one essence and soul
If one member is afflicted with pain
Other members uneasy will remain
If you have no sympathy for human pain
The name of human you cannot retain” _Saadi Shirazi
It is now up to us to save the planet, it is up to us to show our unique characteristics (humanity), and it is up to us to observe the flight of humanity!
WE ARE HUMANITY TOGETHER, LETS SHOW WE CAN CHANGE FOR THE BETTER, SO SAVE THE PLANET AND ALL LIFE WE SHARE IT WITH...
Welcome to Season 2 of Nature Talks Podcast! Let's join the conversation with Erfan Firouzi and Kelsey Prediger, where they talk all about Pangolins!
The world’s most trafficked mammal. Today, little is known about the behaviors and habitats of this scaly, shy mammal.
PCRF is focused on changing that. Their conservation efforts include active field research and study, working with partners to inform policy and conservation guidelines, and working within communities to raise awareness and prevent further harm.
PCRF was founded to fill a gap in the conservation efforts of pangolin with a focus on research informed conservation planning and increased awareness. They work across boundaries to observe, to inform, and to protect pangolin.
who is the founder of PCRF, Kelsey Prediger?
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. Today, pangolin conservation, research, and protection is her mission. Kelsey is actively involved with several local projects whose goal is to raise awareness and educate local people while learning more about the ecology of these nocturnal and elusive creatures. She is also helping to develop a base of scientific knowledge from which we can better establish guidelines to save this species from the horrendous wildlife trafficking trade.
The Pangolin Conservation and 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 committed to engaging the community to raise awareness to help protect pangolin on private and community owned land. Her work to expand field research and develop strong policies is ground breaking. Kelsey is the founder and executive director of PCRF. She 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.
Learn More: https://www.pangolincrf.org/about-us/ #pangolin #podcast #africa
Welcome to Season 2 of Nature Talks Podcast!
Let's join the conversation with Erfan Firouzi and Danielle Carnaha, where they talk all about Elephants!
Who is Danielle Carnahan? She is a conservationist, passionate about making a difference in our changing world. She grew up in Washington state and attended Washington State University (go cougs) where she got my bachelor’s degree in animal sciences with a minor in French. During college, she traveled to Thailand as a pre-veterinary student to work in a variety of veterinary and conservation environments. One of these included an elephant sanctuary during which time, she found herself falling more and more in love with these amazing pachyderms everyday and becoming incredibly passionate about their plight and exploitation in Thailand. This experience shaped her outlook on conservation as well as my future.
After this experience she decided to apply to graduate school to get a master’s degree in conservation medicine. This grad program brought me to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in Massachusetts and trained her in conservation methods while challenging her view of the world. This graduate program prepared her for a career in conservation and opened her mind and heart to so many conservation and social injustices that require more attention. Toward the end of graduate school she received funding to do research at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand, Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES), This research brought her to the jungle for three months where she worked alongside some incredible conservationists and animals. Since then she have spent time traveling in Nepal with the continued mission of improving the lives of captive elephants as an independent researcher. This has given her more insight into the industry and made me better equipped to spread her knowledge on this platform.
She believes that in order to conserve the planet and all the beautiful (and not so beautiful) species living here, education is critical.
That why we are here on this nature talks podcast where we learn, education and experience the natural world to save it. Together, we can make change; everyone’s small steps make the difference! #Elephants #AsianElephants #conservation
Welcome to another Nature Talks episode.
THIS NATURE TALKS WE ARE WITH SIAN! Based on Gili Trawangan Indonesia for 9 years and working hard to protect the ocean and island environment. She loves to teach people how to conserve the natural environment and I'm an avid diver and scuba instructor. Teaching coral reef restoration and coral propagation are some of her favorite past times.
She loves to clean the beach and make a difference. She started the movement Debris Free Friday to encourage all tourists locals and guests to come together to clean up marine debris every Friday for social networking and educational opportunity.
Website: https://giliecotrust.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giliecotrust/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Giliecotrust/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/giliecotrust/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSGS...
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gili...
Welcome to another Nature Talks episode.
THIS NATURE TALKS WE ARE WITH AMY! AMY and Ella are the founders of a nonprofit charity organization that fights against plastic.
"But this campaign isn’t just about us. This is our story, but now we want you, your friends, your family, everyone, to join a movement of people that are breaking their plastic habits and lobbying for change. After all, if we want change to happen, we have to make it happen."
Website:https://www.kidsagainstplastic.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidsagainstplastic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidsagainstplastic/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/KidsVplastic