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.

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In this episode, we bring you a recording of Emma Strutt's presentation as part of the recent 2024 Athletes for Nature Webinar Series.

Emma is Ben's partner in crime here at The Lentil Intervention, but for anyone not familiar with her professional background, she is an Accredited Practising Dietitian, a Fellow of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine and the founder of Greenstuff Nutrition. Emma also holds a certificate in plant-based nutrition, a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training qualification, a Diploma in Sustainable Living and a Grad Cert in Climate Change Adaptation.

In this presentation, Emma explores how athletes can reduce their ecological footprint through their food choices. She provides the ins and outs of transitioning to and thriving with a plant-powered eating pattern while avoiding the more common pitfalls.
You can watch the video presentation of this episode here.

In this episode, Emma covers:
• An overview of the current ecological crisis
• Greenhouse gas emissions of our food system and why methane matters so much
• Ecological impact of our food choices
• Solutions to feed the world within planetary boundaries
• Safety and efficacy of plant-based diets for athletes
• Meeting carbohydrate and protein needs with plants
• Key micronutrient considerations
• Meal planning tips and tricks
• Common pitfalls to avoid
• Plants, fibre and gut health

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

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In this episode, we bring you a recording of Damian Hall’s appearance as part of the recent 2024 Athletes for Nature Webinar Series.

Damian is a renowned ultramarathon runner and athletics coach who has represented Great Britain, consistently achieving remarkable results in some of the world’s most challenging races. He is also a seasoned journalist and the author of several acclaimed books, including the award-nominated We Can’t Run Away From This, which delves into the effects of running on our climate and ecological crisis. Beyond his athletic and literacy achievements, Damian is a dedicated climate activist, participating in multiple environmental organisations and initiatives, and co-founding The Green Runners.

If you love what you hear and want to listen to more of Damian’s wisdom, he first appeared on the podcast last year in season 4, episode 19.

In this presentation, Damian chats with our co-host Ben about the surprising ecological impacts and considerations of sports, and prompts us to identify changes for a lighter footprint.
You can watch the video presentation of this episode here.

In this chat, Damian covers:
• His background, foray into ultrarunning and passion for the environment
• The inspiration behind Damian’s latest book, We Can’t Run Away From This
• Ecological impact of sports shoes and clothing, and travel for sporting events
• Ethical considerations regarding sports sponsorship
• Progressive environmental action within the trail running space
• Damian’s experience in the Barkley Marathon
• Embracing imperfect climate advocacy and being a climate hypocrite
• The influence of athletes and how we can use that power for good!
• The mission of The Green Runners and their four key pillars

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

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In this episode, we bring you a recording of Dr Mike Joy’s presentation as part of the recent 2024 Athletes for Nature Webinar Series. This was the first of a 3-part online webinar series for outdoor enthusiasts about the current climate emergency and the actions we can take to protect our playground.

Mike is a leading freshwater ecologist, researcher, and award-winning science communicator, fearlessly championing awareness and action to tackle our planet’s urgent environmental concerns. Mike’s upcoming memoir The Fight for Freshwater provides a first-hand look at the pressures and challenges faced by those who dare to raise their voices, especially when debating issues as critical as the health of Aotearoa’s waterways. Dr Joy is a regular guest of the podcast, most recently appearing in our season 4 finale here.

In this presentation Mike discusses our current ecological and climate crises, providing valuable insights about the challenges confronting our planet. Dr Joy also outlines the essential steps needed for transitioning to a more sustainable future.
You can watch the video presentation of this episode here.

In this episode, Mike covers:
• De-escalating economic growth to stay within ecological limits
• Agriculture’s contribution to our overstep of planetary boundaries
• New Zealand’s poor environmental performance
• Intensive agriculture and nitric oxide
• Water pollution in New Zealand
• Realities of renewable energy
• The energy density of fossil fuels vs renewables
• Understanding energy return on investment (EROI)
• The dangerous illusion of net zero

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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Dr Kate Wylie is an Adelaide-based GP, the founder of Climate Medicine, and the Executive Director of Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA), a not-for-profit advocacy organisation that recognises human health depends on a healthy environment. Dr Wylie is a master communicator who has emerged as a leading voice in Australia for highlighting the health implications of climate change while championing change and actionable solutions.

This is Kate’s second full episode and third appearance on the podcast, first chatting with us in season 1 episode 22 and contributing to our end-of-year wrap-up in 2021. With significant developments in planetary health and Dr Wylie’s professional journey since our last conversation, catching up was long overdue!

In this episode, we had the opportunity to delve into DEA's recent endeavours and discuss our climate's current state. Kate shares insights into the profound effects of climate change on the health of Australians while highlighting the importance of proactive measures.

Despite the multitude of challenges posed by climate change, Dr Wylie’s message remains resolute: Our planet is worth saving, and so are we. It’s not game over, it’s game on.

In this episode, we discuss:
• Kate’s shift from general practice to becoming Executive Director of DEA
• Hiking the Larapinta Trail to raise money for DEA
• The recent 2024 iDEA conference
• Fossil Fuels as a health hazard
• DEA’s lobbying work and recent submissions
• The Duty of Care and Intergenerational Climate Equity Bill and Senate Inquiry
• Why we should consider the health impacts of proposed fossil fuel projects
• Health impacts of vehicle emissions
• The increase in allergens due to climate change
• The carbon footprint of various asthma inhalers
• Climate change and health hazards: Heatwaves, extreme heat, flooding and storms, bushfires
• Key messages from the 2023 MJA-Lancet Countdown on health and climate change
• Healthcare sustainability – transitioning to an environmentally sustainable healthcare sector in Australia
• Kate’s suggestions on how we can all advocate for change

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

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Andre Borell is not just a filmmaker and investor, he’s a catalyst for change and a maker of good trouble! We first chatted with Andre in season two of the podcast, hot on the heels of the release of Envoy: Shark Cull, a documentary that sheds light on the long-running ‘shark safety’ programs in place in QLD and NSW. In this episode, we catch up with Andre and delve into his work since the film’s debut, including the establishment of the Envoy Foundation and their recent annual reports. We revisit the critical importance of protecting sharks as a keystone species in our oceans, highlighting the shortcomings and environmental consequences of current shark control methods while exploring more sustainable solutions.

But that’s not all! In addition to his work with Envoy Foundation, Andre has taken on a new role as a board member of the Norwegian Whale Reserve. (Does he ever sleep? We’re not sure…) This visionary conservation initiative is to be an open sea sanctuary nestled in the pristine fjords of Norway, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing captive whales. We dive into the details of this project and their vision for the future.

Prepare to be inspired by this insightful conversation with an extraordinary human being!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Andre’s work since the release of Envoy: Shark Cull
• His relocation to Singapore
• The imperative of safeguarding sharks for ocean health
• Shark control (culling) methods still used in Australia and more appropriate alternatives
• Government reluctance to change their culling programs
• Ethical considerations of current programs, including huge concerns regarding bycatch
• The fantastic work of the Envoy Foundation – it is conservation reimagined!
• Recent Envoy Foundation reports including the NSW Shark Meshing Program and the QLD Shark Control Program reviews
• Andre’s involvement in the Norwegian Whale Reserve and the project’s mission
• Ways to support the Norwegian Whale Reserve and Envoy Foundation
• Andre's upcoming projects - watch this space!

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.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook, subscribe to this podcast, and share this episode with your friends and family.