In this Thanksgiving Special, Brooke sits down with Manda Kalimian and Dr. Ross McPhee from Rewilding America Now to explore their bold mission of restoring the American West by reintroducing wild horses to public lands. Together, they discuss the evolutionary history of horses, their role as keystone species in grassland ecosystems, and the systemic challenges facing conservation on public lands. The conversation also delves into the controversial topics of lithium mining, electric cars, and the broader implications of balancing green initiatives with land restoration. Packed with hope, science, and groundbreaking ideas, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rewilding and reimagining the future of our landscapes.

00:00 Introduction to the American West 02:15 Conversation with Manda and Ross 02:48 Manda's Journey to Rewilding 05:41 Ross's Academic Perspective 10:14 The Ecological Role of Horses 10:53 Historical Context of Wild Horses 15:10 Rewilding America Now: Vision and Challenges 26:28 The Importance of Grasslands 32:39 Cows vs. Horses: Ecological Impact 39:15 Public Rangelands and Management 40:35 Public Land Management and the Bureau of Land Management 41:28 The American Wild Horse and Burro Act 42:24 Multi-Use of Public Lands 43:57 The Impact of Industrial Lobbying 45:36 Changes in Cattle and Land Use 47:12 Challenges Faced by Small Ranchers 51:09 The Process of Acquiring Grazing Permits 01:00:09 Environmental Impact of Mining 01:10:41 Rewilding America's Rangelands 01:18:31 Future Goals and Community Involvement

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In this episode, Brooke sits down with Alister Scott, PhD, Director of Communications for the Global Rewilding Alliance, to uncover the powerful global movement aiming to restore ecosystems and ignite hope. Alister takes us through his inspiring journey from a passionate young environmentalist safeguarding Antarctica to a key leader in the Global Rewilding Alliance, where he's helped expand the network to over 200 partners worldwide. Together, we explore the Alliance’s four guiding pillars, discussing how rewilding is more than ecological restoration—it’s about reuniting people with nature, empowering communities, and envisioning a sustainable future. Through Alister’s story and the Alliance’s impactful work, we’re reminded that even in a world facing environmental crisis, there’s immense power in resilience and collaboration.

00:00 Introduction and Early Life 05:01 Epiphany and Early Activism 07:31 Campaigning and Achievements 09:13 Academic Pursuits and PhD Journey 11:12 Founding the Knowledge Bridge 14:01 Personal Challenges and Coaching 15:53 The One Leadership Project 18:27 Joining the Global Rewilding Alliance 40:47 Rewilding Chile: Building Trust with Local Communities 42:03 Policy and Advocacy in Rewilding 46:12 The Four Pillars of the Global Rewilding Alliance 46:26 The Science of Rewilding: Reanimating the Carbon Cycle 54:47 Joining the Global Rewilding Alliance 01:03:14 The Future of Rewilding: Goals and Hopes 01:09:06 How to Get Involved with Rewilding

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The Caribbean's offshore islands are treasures of biodiversity, but centuries of human impact and invasive species have pushed many of these delicate ecosystems to the brink. In this episode, Brooke sits down with Shanna Challenger, Offshore Islands Conservation Programme Coordinator of the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) in Antigua and Barbuda, to explore the complex challenges of rewilding islands. From combating invasive species to securing the future of the Antiguan racer snake, Shanna details the dramatic transformations of the islands and the dedication required to revive these delicate ecosystems. Join us as we uncover the successes, challenges, and inspiring stories behind island restoration in the Caribbean.

00:00 Introduction to Caribbean Island Biodiversity 00:36 Meet Shanna Challenger: Island Restoration Expert 01:02 Challenges and Successes in Island Rewilding 02:30 Personal Journey: From Childhood to Conservation 09:21 The Redonda Restoration Project Begins 11:37 Conservation Challenges in the Caribbean 33:01 The Unique Wildlife of Redonda 37:47 Goat Relocation Efforts 43:28 Rat Eradication on Redonda 53:14 Seabirds and Clever Rats 56:08 Rat Eradication Strategy 01:03:34 Impact on Redonda's Ecosystem 01:10:37 Conservation Efforts and Challenges 01:26:54 Future Plans and Community Involvement 01:33:16 How You Can Help 01:45:38 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

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In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke sits down with Laurie Cummins, the Acting Deputy and Education Director at GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Laurie shares her incredible journey from Michigan to GRACE, where she now plays a crucial role in helping the team on the ground rescue, rehabilitate, and protect the critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas. The conversation explores GRACE's innovative three-pillar approach to conservation, which includes rewilding gorillas, protecting forest habitats, and engaging local communities. Laurie also discusses the organization's groundbreaking work amidst the challenges posed by the civil unrest in the region and highlights the importance of community-driven conservation efforts. Tune in to learn about the remarkable progress being made to save these majestic great apes and how GRACE is setting new standards for conservation worldwide.

00:00 Introduction to Grauer's Gorillas 00:41 Meet Laurie Cummins from GRACE 02:41 Laurie's Journey into Conservation 09:53 Understanding Grauer's Gorillas 13:55 Community-Based Conservation at GRACE 22:06 Challenges and Success Stories 43:52 Rewilding Gorillas: From Trauma to Triumph 45:28 Lulingu's Heartwarming Journey 46:16 Integrating Rescued Gorillas into Groups 48:03 The Goal of Rewilding Grauer's Gorillas 48:55 Hands-Off Care and Gorilla Health 51:19 The Community-Driven Corridor Project 01:01:10 Navigating Civil Unrest and Conservation 01:07:53 Future Goals and Personal Motivation 01:13:04 Advice and How to Help

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Join Brooke for a journey to Nepal's remote Dolpo region, where conservationist Tshiring Lhamu Lama is revolutionizing snow leopard conservation. From witnessing cubs being harmed during her research to founding the women-led Snow Leopard Journey, Tshiring shares her inspiring story of transforming human-wildlife conflict into sustainable coexistence. Discover how she's empowering local communities through innovative tourism, training youth as wildlife guides, and proving that protecting these ethereal cats can create opportunities rather than obstacles. This episode offers a powerful glimpse into the future of conservation, where ancient traditions meet modern solutions, and where saving a species means uplifting the communities who share its home.

00:00 Introduction 00:40 Meet Tshiring Lama: A Conservation Pioneer 02:43 From Childhood to Conservationist 08:31 The Impact of Caterpillar Fungus Harvesting 15:25 Challenges and Solutions in Snow Leopard Conservation 21:31 Innovative Approaches to Coexistence 27:49 Starting Snow Leopard Treks 28:19 Convincing the Community 29:00 Learning from Ladakh 30:19 Training Local Youth 32:51 Challenges and Strategies 34:47 Snow Leopard Tourism Impact 36:36 Upcoming Film: Snow Leopard Sisters 39:16 Personal Struggles and Triumphs 42:22 Balancing Motherhood and Conservation 47:26 Final Thoughts and Message

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Join us in a compelling exploration of island conservation efforts. Featuring insights from Coral Wolf, Conservation Science Program Manager at Island Conservation, we delve into the critical work of removing invasive species to restore island and marine ecosystems. Discover personal stories from field biologists, the impact of seabird recolonization, and the holistic benefits of projects like the Island Ocean Connection Challenge Campaign. Uncover how these initiatives enhance biodiversity, connect terrestrial and marine environments, and engage local communities. Tune in for an exhilarating snorkel adventure in the Galapagos, and learn how you can support global conservation efforts. [Originally aired February, 2023]

00:00 Introduction and Episode Update 00:47 Women in Conservation Science Series 01:16 Meet Coral Wolf: Journey to Island Conservation 02:23 The Impact of Invasive Species on Islands 05:04 Island Restoration Success Stories 13:20 The Island-Marine Connection 18:43 Harnessing Island-Ocean Connections 30:35 Future of Island and Marine Restoration 33:41 Stakeholders and Their Roles 35:56 Island Restoration Efforts in Palau 37:30 Challenges and Opportunities in Island Conservation 42:30 Personal Insights and Experiences 47:29 Balancing Parenthood and Fieldwork 52:59 Advice for Aspiring Conservationists 54:10 Galapagos Islands: A Magical Experience 58:28 Conclusion and Ways to Support

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In this compelling episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell delves into the controversial Johnson Tract issue with guest Jen Woolworth, Alaska Program Manager at the National Parks Conservation Association. The discussion unravels the complex web of interests surrounding a proposed mining project within Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. You will gain insight into the unique history that placed valuable minerals on native-owned land within park boundaries, setting the stage for a clash between conservation efforts, indigenous rights, and resource extraction. Woolworth exposes the marketing tactics employed by mining companies, explains the unconventional review process that has sparked concern, and outlines the potential long-term impacts on wildlife and Alaska's tourism industry. This episode offers a balanced exploration of the economic, environmental, and cultural stakes, ultimately challenging listeners to consider the true value of preserving America's last wild places.

00:00 Introduction to Alaska's Wilderness Battle 00:40 Spotlight on Lake Clark National Park 00:48 Meet Jen Woolworth: Conservation Advocate 03:02 Jen's Journey to Alaska 05:16 Challenges in Federal Job Market 10:24 Transition to Nonprofit Sector 14:16 The Johnson Tract Mine Controversy 17:18 Legal and Environmental Implications 26:57 Mining Interests and Native Corporations 31:58 Funding and Development of Lucky Shot and Johnson Track Mine 32:48 Unique Mining Methods at Johnson Track 34:36 Environmental Concerns and Permitting Issues 37:50 Community Engagement and Public Comment Periods 44:09 Tribal Consultation and Potential Alternatives 51:18 Current Status and Future Actions 56:16 How You Can Help and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke delves into the groundbreaking European bison reintroduction project in Romania's Carpathian Mountains. Joined by Gabriele Retez, Wildlife Ecologist for WWF-Romania's LIFE with Bison Project, the conversation explores the journey of bringing these majestic creatures back from the brink of extinction. Gabriele shares insights into the project's inception, its ecological impact, and the surprising discoveries about the bison's role in carbon sequestration. The discussion also touches on the delicate balance between conservation efforts and local community adaptation, offering listeners a comprehensive look at the challenges and triumphs of rewilding in the modern world. This episode not only highlights the remarkable resilience of European bison but also showcases how their return is reshaping ecosystems and potentially influencing climate change mitigation strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to conservation and ecological restoration.

00:00 Introduction to European Bison Reintroduction 00:42 Meet Our Expert: Gabrielle Retez 01:55 Gabrielle's Journey to Studying Bison 04:51 The Bison Reintroduction Program in Romania 07:57 Challenges and Strategies in Bison Management 09:13 Scientific Insights and Findings 22:21 Bison's Role in Carbon Sequestration 33:45 Challenges of Species Reintroduction 34:30 Conflicts with Local Communities 36:10 Learning from Past Rewilding Efforts 41:07 Human-Wildlife Coexistence 49:51 Future of Bison Reintroduction 56:28 Defining Success in Rewilding 01:02:30 Personal Reflections and Future Directions

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