John Jurko II is the lead director and producer of RHINO MAN, a powerful documentary that highlights the courage and dedication of field rangers who risk their lives to protect South Africa's rhinos from poaching. More than just a conservation film, RHINO MAN tells a universal story of resilience, bravery, and the human spirit—a heroic tale of individuals striving to leave the world a better place.

Since 2018, John has been at the helm of RHINO MAN, guiding its completion with passion and purpose. A graduate with a BA in Film Production and Philosophy, John began his career in Los Angeles, working in the camera department on numerous indie films. He later moved to Atlanta, where he was drawn to the compelling story of RHINO MAN and its potential as a catalyst for social impact.

In addition to the film, John launched The Rhino Man Podcast, expanding the conversation around the vital role of rangers, the rhino poaching crisis, and the importance of connecting local communities to protected areas. His advocacy has reached esteemed audiences, including His Royal Highness Prince William, government officials, international financial crime delegates, law enforcement agencies, and conservation NGOs.

Through his work, John continues to raise awareness and inspire action for one of the most critical conservation issues of our time. Join us in this episode for a thought-provoking conversation about conservation, courage, and the power of storytelling to drive change.

In this episode, we discuss:

• John’s background in film, philosophy, and storytelling—and his path to joining RHINO MAN
• Startling statistics on rhino populations and the poaching crisis in Africa
• Misconceptions and myths about rhino horn, including its unsubstantiated health claims
• The inspiration behind RHINO MAN—sharing the powerful stories of South African field rangers
• Challenges and lessons from the demanding filmmaking process
• The evolving and perilous role of field rangers in South Africa
• The gruelling recruitment and training process for becoming a field ranger
• The work of Global Conservation Corps and the importance of connecting children with nature
• Tackling the wicked problem that is wildlife poaching
• John’s personal reflections from filming the documentary
• The story of Anton Mzimba—a heroic field ranger whose legacy continues to inspire
• Honouring Anton Mzimba and supporting his family through the Anton Mzimba Education Trust
• John’s ongoing fight for justice in Anton’s unsolved murder investigation and how we can support his efforts
• Why wildlife conservation matters to everyone and how we can support rangers and protect rhinos
• Future projects for John

To view all the links to the websites and documents, visit the show notes on our website.

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Professor Niki Harré, Head of the School of Psychology at the University of Auckland, and author of Psychology for a Better World: Working with People to Save the Planet and The Infinite Game: How to Live Well Together, shares her vision of resilient, compassionate, and creative communities as the foundation for sustainability. As discussed in her recent TEDx talk, Niki is particularly interested in promoting deep dialogue, constructive decision-making, and collective action for human and ecological flourishing. In this episode, she underscores how psychology—often overlooked in environmental work—is vital for fostering a people-focused approach and driving meaningful systems change.

Niki emphasises the power of stories and behaviours to inspire action, advocating for narratives of hope and compassion rather than focusing solely on crisis. To combat negativity amid the constant messages of environmental doom and gloom, Dr Harré discusses the importance of working with others and sharing positive values, to build resilient communities. We also explore how common identity points can strengthen communication on sustainability issues, fostering understanding and commitment.

At the heart of her philosophy is an “infinite game” mindset, where the goal is to keep what we most value in play, while inviting others to join – for it is together that we can create resilient social movements, sustain hope, and work toward a more generous, equitable world, with a flourishing environment and compassionate communities.

In this episode, Niki discusses:

• What initially drew her to psychology and her passion for community well-being and sustainability
• The shift away from community-based approaches as society moves more online
• Her two books, Psychology for a Better World: Working with People to Save the Planet and The Infinite Game: How to Live Well Together
• Concerns with “problem-focused” approaches in sustainability circles
• The concept of “copying” behaviours to foster a more sustainable future
• The impact of positive and negative emotions on facilitating change and transformation
• Tips for staying emotionally buoyant in the face of apocalyptic narratives
• The critical importance of self-identity and living in accordance with one’s values
• Being a ‘tidy person’, practising mindfulness, and taking extreme care with material resources
• Moving away from “us vs. them” mentalities and instead asking what kind of world we want to live in
• The importance of engaging with young people in sustainability efforts
• Her “Secular Priest” experiment and what it taught her about community
• Her parting thoughts for advocates and communities on building resilience and maintaining hope

To view all the links to the websites and documents, visit the show notes on our website.

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Lydia Green is the Founder and Project Director of Manta Watch New Zealand, a charitable trust dedicated to protecting and studying manta rays. With a Marine Biology degree (Hons) and over 15 years of experience in marine science, Lydia has worked in waters across the globe, from Fiji to Mexico, bringing a wealth of expertise to New Zealand's manta ray research.

Since establishing Manta Watch Aotearoa New Zealand in 2017, Lydia has become a local leading figure in marine conservation, driving groundbreaking efforts to protect these majestic creatures. Manta rays, known for having the largest brain of any fish, are highly interactive and sociable, making their conservation vital for marine ecosystems. Under Lydia’s leadership, the organisation has focused on innovative research, public education, and conservation initiatives to safeguard manta rays and their habitats.

In this episode, Lydia shares her journey from global marine researcher to spearheading manta conservation in New Zealand. We dive deep into Manta Watch’s recent projects and explore the incredible intelligence and behaviour of manta rays, along with the vital role they play in ocean ecosystems.

Despite the growing threats to marine life, Lydia’s message is clear: With continued research, education, and global action, we can ensure that manta rays—and our oceans—continue to thrive.

In this episode, Lydia discusses:

• Her background and passion for marine science
• Her love for manta rays and marine megafauna
• Manta Ray 101: An overview of their biology and behaviour
• The inspiration behind founding Manta Watch NZ
• The conservation status of manta rays in New Zealand and globally
• Surprising research findings about oceanic mantas in Aotearoa’s waters
• The biggest threats to manta rays and best practice guidelines for protection
• The role of citizen science in manta conservation and the importance of sharing findings
• The search for manta cleaning and feeding stations in New Zealand waters
• The upcoming Wellington screening of Manta Watch’s short film, Discovering Aotearoa New Zealand’s Gentle Giants
• Ways to support Manta Watch NZ
• Advice for aspiring marine scientists

To view all the links to the websites and documents, visit the show notes on our website.

Please support our work and enable us to deliver more content by buying us a coffee or becoming a member of Athletes for Nature.
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