Conservation Careers Podcast

10 Episodes
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By: Conservation Careers

Nick Askew from Conservation Careers uncovers what it's like to work in wildlife conservation. He explores how to get a conservation job, and discusses the latest industry news, by speaking to professional conservationists who share their career stories and advice. So if you want the inside scoop on the life of a professional conservationist and their industry, are feeling lost in your conservation job hunt and need some direction, or wanting to switch careers into conservation but don't know where to start - this is the podcast for you! Conservation jobs, conservation volunteering, conservation internships, conservation careers, conservation news, conservation...

Podcast | From Intern to Conservation Leader: Richard Grimmett’s 40-Year BirdLife Journey
#135
01/16/2025

Lessons From Four Decades of BirdLife International: Richard Grimmett on Conservation Success and Challenges.

How does a passion for birds turn into a lifelong career in global conservation? And what can four decades of experience teach us about the evolution of biodiversity efforts?

Today’s guest is Richard Grimmett, Senior Conservation Adviser at BirdLife International, where he’s been a driving force for over 40 years. From his early days mapping Important Bird Areas across Europe to leading conservation strategies as their Director of Conservation, Richard has played a pivotal role in shaping one of the worl...


Building Bridges for Conservation: Dr Jonny Hanson’s Vision for Rewilding and Coexistence
#134
12/18/2024

Hi there. Nick here from Conservation Careers, and welcome to the podcast.

How can we restore biodiversity while balancing the needs of people and wildlife? And what can large carnivores teach us about coexistence and environmental harmony?

Today’s guest is Jonny Hanson, environmental social scientist, conservationist, and author of Living with Lynx: Sharing Landscapes with Big Cats, Wolves, and Bears. 

Jonny brings a unique perspective to conservation, blending natural and social sciences, peace-building techniques, and his experiences across Western Europe and North America.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating top...


Rewilding Europe: Frans Schepers on restoring nature at scale
#133
12/05/2024

How do you transform landscapes, restore biodiversity and reconnect people with nature - all at scale? And what does it take to build a pioneering conservation initiative from scratch? 

Today’s guest is Frans Schepers, co-founder and Executive Director of Rewilding Europe. Frans has dedicated over a decade to leading rewilding efforts across Europe, turning ambitious ideas into tangible results.  

Under his leadership, Rewilding Europe has become a frontrunner in nature recovery, combining innovation, entrepreneurship and practical conservation to breathe life back into our landscapes. 

In this episode, we explore the origins of Rewild...


From campaigning to chairing: Tony Juniper’s journey in nature conservation
#132
11/26/2024

How can campaigning lead to transformative leadership in conservation? And what role do cross-sector partnerships play in scaling biodiversity impact?

Today’s guest is Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England and one of the UK’s most prominent voices in nature conservation.

He’s been described as ‘the most effective of Britain's eco-warriors’ and ‘one of the top ten environmental figures of the last thirty years.

From his early days at Friends of the Earth to advising global leaders and now steering Natural England, Tony shares insights from a fascinating career dedicated to protecting o...


The power of trees: Sir William Worsley on conservation, climate and careers in forestry
#131
11/18/2024

Today’s guest is Sir William Worsley, Chair of the Forestry Commission (England). Sir William shares his rich experience in forestry management, conservation, and the evolving mission of the ForestryCommission since its founding in 1919.

In our chat, we discuss the Commission's role in afforestation, timber production and wildlife conservation, and the importance of balanced woodland management.

Sir William also shares his views on the economic and environmental significance of forests, practical insights for aspiring conservationists and what to expect from upcoming National Tree Week.

It’s a passionate, informative, and inspiring podcast about tree...


Leading Europe's biggest conservation charity | Beccy Speight
#130
11/06/2024

What does it take to lead one of the world’s largest conservation organisations through a time when 41% ofUK species are in decline?

And how can today’s conservation leaders inspire millions to fight for biodiversity?

Today’s guest, Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB, offers her insights into what it takes to manage over 1.2 million members and 200 reserves across the UK.

In this episode, we discuss the RSPB’s mission, the role of effective leadership, and Beccy’s own career path from local government to conservation leadership.

Beccy shares the biggest ch...


The role of media in modern conservation | David Mizejewski
#129
10/22/2024

Have you ever wondered how your backyard or garden can help to save wildlife? Or why something as simple as leaving your leaves where they fall can make a big difference for local ecosystems? And what role does media, from television to online platforms, play in conservation efforts? 

Today’s guest is David Mizejewski, a naturalist, author, and television presenter with the National Wildlife Federation. David has spent years educating the public on how small, everyday actions can protect wildlife and the environment.  

He’s here to talk about his exciting career and the Leave the Lea...


The importance of community in our careers
#128
10/15/2024

Have you ever felt like an outsider or imposter in your career? Or wondered where (or even if) you can fit and belong?

We're biologically hard-wired for connection, and research shows that it's vital to our physical and mental wellbeing.

But when it comes to our careers, we often think we need to go it alone.

In this special episode, we discuss the importance of community in our careers as conservationists, and how it's often key to our happiness, impact and wellbeing.

Joining our host Dr Nick Askew is Dr Fernando...


Snakes, rainforests and rock ‘n’ roll | Romulus Whitaker
#127
10/08/2024

Today’s guest is Romulus Whitaker, a renowned herpetologist and conservationist often referred to as the"Snake Man of India."

Romulus shares his lifelong passion for snakes, conservation and the incredible biodiversity of India's rainforests.

In this episode, we discuss what drew Romulus to snakes, especially the King Cobra, his experiences in the rainforest and the significance of water and forest conservation.

We also delve into how Romulus started several conservation projects, including the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, and the importance of inspiring future generations.

Finally, we also discuss his new bo...


Inspiring young conservation leaders | Becky Park
#126
08/22/2024

Today’s guest is Becky Park, the Programme Manager for the Osprey Leadership Foundation.

They work to inspire young people about the natural world and to help them to develop into conservation leaders who can make a real difference, at both a grassroots and international level.

We discuss the foundation's origins, its mission in conservation and leadership training, and how it connects the UK with countries along the Osprey migratory flyway, such as The Gambia.

Becky shares a fascinating story about community, leadership, and the passion that drives impactful conservation work.

We...