Renowned wildlife photographer Joel Sartore takes us on an extraordinary journey from his early days in newspaper photography to his groundbreaking work with National Geographic and the ambitious Photo Ark project. Learn how Joel uses innovative techniques, such as black and white backgrounds, to give equal prominence to all creatures, whether they are tiny insects or massive lions. Delve into the unique challenges and collaborative effort required to photograph Earth's biodiversity, and discover how pictures play a vital role in raising public awareness about the extinction crisis.

Brace yourself for exhilarating adventure stories from Joel’s wildlife photography escapades. From close encounters with grizzly bears and spitting cobras to the humorous ordeal of Joel's boots melting on hot lava or the time he was pelted with monkey poo! Each tale offers a vivid glimpse into the unpredictable and often perilous world of wildlife photography. Joel also shares his personal battle with a tropical disease and the fascinating discovery of traditional healing methods in the Amazon, adding an element of intrigue and danger to his conservation efforts. Join us for an episode packed with stories, insights, and a powerful message about the importance of protecting our natural world.

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Joel's work can be seen on the Photo Ark website.

Additional links:
Photo Ark Project
Joel Sartore Instagram
Joel Sartore named 2023 Jane Alexander Global Wildlife Ambassador
"The Spider Monkey Incident"

Soaring through the skies of conversation, we welcome our colleague Dr. Sam Ivande, the Bird Conservation Coordinator at the Global Center for Species Survival. He's also a cardinal enthusiast with a wealth of knowledge about birds and community science. In a narrative that spans from personal connections to the environmental significance of our avian friends, Sam weaves a tapestry of anecdotes that reveal the profound kinship we share with birds. The gentle chirp of a backyard visitor, the silent glide of a distant raptor; our discussion illuminates the mosaic of human-bird relationships, from the simple joys of birdwatching to the complex challenges these creatures face due to human interference.

Like a bird takes flight on unexpected winds, Sam's journey into conservation biology has been filled with twists and turns. How exactly did make his way from architecture to ornithology? Sam shares his passion for our feathered friends and the folks who are trying to protect them. Learn how birdwatching has created a flock of its own that's filled with as much vibrance and diversity as we find among the birds themselves.

Links:
State of the World’s Birds Report
Citizen Science
Merlin Bird ID App
eBird App
Preventing Bird Window Strikes

From the moment Fanny Cornejo cradled a rescued baby howler monkey, her path in life became clear. Fanny, a dedicated primatologist and founder of Yunkawasi, shares her transformative journey and the conservation efforts she spearheads in Peru. Delving beyond adorable primate encounters, Fanny paints a vivid picture of the intersection between conservation and community empowerment, underscoring how education and sustainable practices can lead to a harmonious existence between humans and wildlife.

Have you ever considered the impact your morning cup of coffee has on the world's primates? Fanny's stories reveal the intricate connection between our daily choices and the survival of species like the yellow-tailed woolly monkey. Her candid discussion on the hurdles faced by women in the field of primatology sheds light on a broader struggle for equality in science. The episode is a celebration of local heroes and a call to action, illustrating how supporting eco-friendly agriculture can safeguard our planet's biodiversity without breaking the bank.

Links:
Yunkawasi