Podcasts about National Audubon Society

Share your Field Stories!Laura and Nic sit down with Alice Madden, Senior Director of Climate Strategies at the National Audubon Society, to talk about Colorado's clean energy transformation, what it takes to lead progressive policy change, and how strong teams help turn big environmental goals into action. Along the way, Alice shares candid career advice on mentorship, fundraising, public service, and building a meaningful path in climate and conservation work.Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-form Please be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Connect with Alice Madden at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-madden-3868112b/Guest Bio:Alice Madden is the Senior Director of Climate Strategies for the National Audubon Society where she oversees efforts to achieve the organization's strategic goal of influencing the responsible clean energy transition to abate climate change. An innovative changemaker, Alice brings several decades of success in developing and implementing groundbreaking policies in myriad areas, including clean energy, sustainability, environmental justice, land/water conservation, and climate action. Alice practiced law for a decade before serving in the Colorado House of Representatives. She is considered the architect of the 2004 progressive resurgence and as Majority Leader, Alice led the passage of an historic agenda – including implementing the means to grow a sweeping clean energy economy. She went on to become Gov. Bill Ritter's Climate Change Advisor and was a Climate Fellow at the Center for American Progress in DC. She then held the Timothy E. Wirth Chair in Sustainable Development at the University of Colorado's School of Public Affairs. In 2013, she accepted a high-level appointment in the Obama administration at the U.S. Department of Energy, serving as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Intergovernmental and External Affairs. Alice led the prestigious Getches-Wilkinson Center for Natural Resources, Energy & the Environment at University of Colorado School of Law. Just prior to joining Audubon, Alice served as Greenpeace USA's first Policy & Political Director. Alice has always believed in giving back to her community and has served on multiple non-profit boards. In everything she does, Alice incorporates efforts to create broad collaborations, and to ensure equitable and inclusive support of women and historically under-represented populations.Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs MullerSupport the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players. 

El colorín siete colores parece un pequeño arcoíris con alas, pero además de ser hermoso, es un viajero extraordinario. En este episodio de Cráneo: Ciencia para niños curiosos, descubrimos cómo este diminuto pájaro migratorio recorre grandes distancias entre Norteamérica y Centroamérica y por qué los machos tienen colores tan brillantes. Junto a Amaris Ribeiro, directora de Trinity River Audubon Center, de la National Audubon Society, aprendemos sobre su hábitat, su alimentación, sus sorprendentes bailes de cortejo, la construcción de sus nidos y el importante papel que desempeña en los ecosistemas. ➡️ Organización invitada: Trinity River Audubon Center

Patreon/Supercast Special Release – Bonus – Living Beyond the OCD Loop with Ally Kristan (302) This is a sneak peek of our episode with Ally Kristan, and part two of our three part series on OCD – available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Click here to join & finish the episode!! What is OCD really like beyond the stereotypes? In part two of our three part series on deepening the understanding OCD, Marine biologist and author Ally Kristan shares her lifelong experience living with OCD, challenging common misconceptions that reduce the disorder to cleanliness or organization. Ally discusses the intrusive thoughts, compulsions, shame, and relentless search for certainty that characterize OCD, as well as the relief of finally receiving a diagnosis and effective support. Together, Ally and Dr. Ann Kelley explore themes of control, uncertainty, mindfulness, relationships, self-compassion, and how healing can come from understanding—not fighting—the parts of ourselves that struggle. The episode offers an honest, hopeful look at living with OCD and finding ways to transform fear into meaning and connection. “We’re not out of touch with reality. We know that what we’re doing doesn’t make sense, but we just can’t help doing it anyway.” – Ally Kristan Time Stamps for Bonus – Living Beyond the OCD Loop with Ally Kristan (302) 06:34 Personal journey: Discovering my OCD 11:34 Therapeutic insights: The role of specialists 16:19 The OCD loop: Understanding the cycle 23:01 Transforming OCD: Finding positive outlets 31:03 Radical acceptance and its challenges 35:10 Finding Authenticity in Confrontation 42:23 Transforming compulsions into positive rituals 52:28 The balance of reassurance in relationships 55:59 The intersection of OCD and career choices 58:00 Lessons from penguins: Resilience and love 01:00:54 Conservation concerns: The krill catastrophe 01:07:28 Coping tools and resources for OCD About our Guest – Ally Kristan  Ally Kristan is a marine conservation biologist, Antarctic expert and OCD advocate originally from Raleigh, North Carolina. She holds a B.S. in Marine Biology from UNC Wilmington and an M.S. in Oceanography & Coastal Sciences from Louisiana State University. A salient voice for wildlife protection, Ally has appeared in National Public Radio (NPR), National Audubon Society and Hakai Magazine. Her work has brought her from a sea turtle hospital in North Carolina to whale watch boats in Maui to raucous seabird colonies in Florida, then from the U.S. National Science Foundation in Washington D.C. to McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Ally now resides on the North Carolina coast where, when not working in the lab, she can be found amongst animals.   Resources for Living Beyond the OCD Loop with Ally Kristan (302) Ally Kristan’s website – Additional resources & information Get your copy of her book, “Braving the Waves” here!! Looking for our Upcoming Events? Click here!! Our Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW! Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s

This is a live episode recorded at the 2026 Great Plains Stakeholder Workshop, hosted by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The workshop brought together many of the country's leading grasslands conservationists, scientists, funders, and policy experts to tackle a huge question: what would it look like to create a bold, practical, long-term plan for conserving North America's grasslands over the next 30 years? My guests are two people helping to lead that effort: Dr. Holly Bamford, Chief Conservation Officer at the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (known as NFWF for short), and Marshall Johnson, Chief Conservation Officer for the National Audubon Society. Both have spent years working at the intersection of science, conservation, agriculture, and partnership-building, and both bring a realistic but hopeful perspective to the future of the Great Plains. In this conversation, we dig into the current state of the Great Plains and grasslands conservation more broadly– from grassland loss and declining bird populations to the creative partnerships helping ranchers, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies work together toward solutions. We discuss the importance of voluntary conservation, the complicated economics facing ranching communities, the role of programs like the Farm Bill, and why grass-based agriculture and healthy wildlife habitat are far more interconnected than many people realize. Holly and Marshall also share stories from their own lives that explain how they each became so deeply connected to these landscapes– from prairie chicken blinds in Minnesota to the wide-open grasslands of the American West. More than anything, this conversation is about long-term thinking. What does it look like to create a 30-year vision for one of the most ecologically important and underappreciated landscapes in North America? What gives these conservation leaders hope? And what keeps them up at night? There's a lot of realism in this discussion, but there's also a surprising amount of optimism, practicality, and momentum. I learned a ton from this conversation, and I think you will too. Be sure to check out the episode notes for links to the organizations, initiatives, and resources we discuss throughout the episode. Thank you again to the amazing team at the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for inviting me to moderate this discussion. --- National Fish and Wildlife Foundation National Audubon Society Dr. Holly Bamford Marshall Johnson Full episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/great-plains --- THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Mountain & Prairie is listener supported via Patreon, and brought to you with support from the Freeflow Institute, The Nature Conservancy in Colorado, and the Well Done Foundation for their generous sponsorship. --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 0:00 - Introducing a live convo 3:25 - Looking behind instead of ahead 5:40 - Why grasslands 6:57 - The state of grasslands today 10:22 - The meadowlark 12:47 - Rancher relationships 22:41 - Money is the key 25:20 - Farm Bill feelings 29:15 - Prairie potholes 36:20 - Voluntary conservation easements 39:24 - Accounting for change 43:41 - Data collection 48:40 - The next 30 years --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

Escaping the productivity trap, silencing the inner nihilist, and finding awe in the most ordinary places. Lili Taylor is an award-winning movie, television, and theater actor. In the birding world, Lili is a board member of the National Audubon Society, the American Birding Association, and the New York City Bird Alliance. In this episode we talk about: Why humans are hardwired to connect with nature  What it means to "pay attention" The role of  listening and investigation  Antidotes to hopelessness How to overcome obstacles in your meditation practice Practical nature tips for city dwellers  The liberating concept of "autotelic" activities Related Episodes: This Scientist Says One Emotion Might Be the Key to Happiness. Can You Guess What It Is? The Science Of How Nature Changes Your Brain—From Sleep To Cognition To Your Nervous System The Science Of Walking Get the 10% with Dan Harris app here Sign up for Dan's free newsletter here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Additional Resources:  Turning to Birds Turning to Birds on Substack  A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Join Dan and Emmy Award-winning journalist Allison Gilbert at 92NY on May 17th for a live conversation about how mindfulness can deepen connection and combat loneliness, available in person and via streaming. Register here. Join Dan, Sebene Selassie, and Jeff Warren for Meditation Party, a 3-day immersive retreat at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY, October 16–18. Grab your in-person spot here, or sign up to livestream here! This episode is sponsored by: Square: Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/HAPPIER. To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris

Louisiana's coastal plan passed, but some still have questions about the priorities. We talk with Lauren Bourg, Director of the Mississippi River Delta Program at the National Audubon Society.

What should nonprofits do when their communities are grieving, fearful, and demanding accountability?In moments of crisis, nonprofit leaders are often called upon to do more than deliver services. They must communicate with empathy, support their teams, stand alongside their communities, and decide whether, and how, to speak publicly about events that are unfolding in real time.In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, I'm joined by Jacques Hebert, communications director at the McKnight Foundation. We discuss how nonprofit organizations and foundations can respond when tragedy and tension impact the communities they serve.The conversation was inspired by a powerful public statement from McKnight Foundation president Tonya Allen following the tragic events in Minneapolis and the ongoing pain and fear felt by many residents across Minnesota. Her message called for dignity, accountability, and safety while acknowledging the deep grief and concern many community members are experiencing.Jacques shares insights into the role that communications leaders play during moments like this: when the stakes are high, emotions are raw, and communities are looking to trusted institutions for leadership.We explore how nonprofits can step up for their communities while also caring for their staff, navigating uncertainty, and communicating in ways that are responsible, values-driven, and grounded in empathy.Moments of crisis test our institutions, our leadership, and our values. This conversation explores how the nonprofit sector can respond with compassion, clarity, and courage.

Send us a text and chime in!Audubon Southwest released a new report to help illustrate the economic value of water in Arizona's rivers, lakes, and streams. The National Audubon Society's southwest regional office worked with Southwick Associates, an outdoor-focused research firm, to analyze the economic contributions associated with water-based outdoor recreation in Arizona, defined as doing the following activities on or along rivers, lakes, and streams in Arizona: Bicycling Cycling Camping Fishing Hunting/target shooting Picnicking/relaxing outdoors Trail sports (hiking, backpacking, trail running, horseback riding, climbing, and mountaineering) Water sports (swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, paddle-boarding, boating) Wildlife watching “This new study confirms what residents and our tens...   For the written story, read here >> https://www.signalsaz.com/articles/arizona-water-recreation-drives-11-7b-economy/ Check out the CAST11.com Website at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network

Melissa is a photographer, writer, and conservationist who uses her images and words to tell the stories of wild animals. She is a Sony Artisan of Imagery, an Associate Fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, and a photography ethics advisor to the National Audubon Society. Her work appears in Audubon, Smithsonian, National Geographic, National Wildlife, and Living Bird magazines.

While its origin is murky, the adage "Take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time," is at the heart of this wide-ranging discussion about ethical practices in wildlife photography. From exotic safaris to local birding expeditions, interest in this subject matter has grown tremendously in recent years. Ever advancing camera technologies and increasing ease of use make stunning pictures more accessible than ever, but when these advantages combine with an unbridled enthusiasm for getting the shot, it can often put wildlife at risk. After defining conservation photography as an act that extends beyond image capture to effect a change in the world, we delve into questionable practices that can threaten animal safety and compromise natural behaviors. From avoiding obvious red flags of baiting an animal with food or using audio lures to trigger photogenic results, to more subtle actions of approaching too quickly, getting too close, or staying too long—our guests shed light on alternative methods for ethical behavior in the field. As Melissa states, "You just have to become a part of the landscape and feel yourself within this community of other beings whose voices and whose messages are as filled with meaning as ours are, but we really have yet to tap into it." Guests: Melissa Groo & Bobby Stormer Episode Timeline: 3:56: Defining the term conservation photographer and making a distinction with the term wildlife photographer. 5:25: Melissa's career shift to focus on animal research and her early days photographing wildlife. 12:15: Bobby's expansion from fine art to photography, his shift to photographing animals, plus his passion for local wildlife & animal rescue. 16:49: Bobby's rescue of a fox and her kits, and his work with rehabbers to rehabilitate animals in need. 20:04: The ethics of photographing wildlife, best practices to consider, and mistakes photographers can make that cross ethical lines. 28:59: An increased awareness of wildlife ethics and the importance of sharing best practices in photographing animals to help educate one another. 36:04: Truth in image captioning and the question of sharing detailed location details, plus the distressing truth behind wildlife game farms. 44:42: Episode Break 46:24: The cameras, lenses, and related photo gear Melissa and Bobby pack, plus their camera set-ups. 56:09: Bobby and Melissa talk focusing, aperture, shutter speed, ISO and other considerations for settings. 102:45: Ethical considerations beyond baiting animals and staging wildlife photo-ops at a time when nature and animal photography has gained huge traction. 1:05:57: Concerns related to captive animal photography, plus distinctions between various facilities—from zoos to sanctuaries to animal havens to wildlife game farms. 1:11:08: Wildlife rescue, the path to becoming a licensed animal rehabber, plus discussing the upsurge in interest in wildlife photography during the pandemic. 1:25:45: Advice for anyone seeking to become a professional wildlife or conservation photographer.              Guest Bios: Melissa Groo is a photographer, writer, and conservationist dedicated to telling stories of the natural world. As a leading voice and consultant on ethics in wildlife photography, it's her mission to inspire conservation of the animals she's privileged to witness, and the habitat crucial to their survival. A Sony Artisan of Imagery since 2024, Melissa also serves as an Associate Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers, an advisor to the National Audubon Society, and a contributing editor for Audubon magazine. In 2023, Melissa received the "Jay N. Ding Darling Memorial Award for Wildlife Stewardship Through Art," from The Wildlife Society. In 2017, she received NANPA's Vision Award, in recognition of early career excellence, vision and inspiration to others in nature photography, conservation, and education. Her award-winning fine art prints are widely exhibited and featured in both personal and corporate collections. Additionally, Melissa has served as a juror for numerous competitions—from the Audubon Photography Awards to Wildlife Photographer of the Year and beyond. As an ambassador for Project Coyote, Melissa is equally invested in the importance of carnivores in our landscapes, continually advocating for co-existence with, and appreciation of, these animals.. She also serves on the Advisory Council for Wyoming Untrapped, the Board of Directors for The Little Egg Foundation, and as a volunteer photographer at the Cornell Wildlife Hospital, near her home in Ithaca, New York. Bobby Stormer first picked up a camera in 2010, transitioning from traditional art to photography as a new creative outlet. Born and raised just outside New York City, his early work focused on urban exploration and automotive shoots, but everything changed six years ago when he took a deep dive into wildlife photography. Shaped by both cityscapes and suburban ecosystems, Bobby developed a unique approach to capturing local wildlife, from foxes and owls to black bears, often within minutes of home. His mission is to show others the beauty hidden in their own backyards and foster a sense of coexistence with the wild. But what truly sets Bobby apart is his hands-on commitment to animal welfare. Apart from the image making, he's helped rescue and rehabilitate hundreds of animals. For Bobby, the photo is just a keepsake, his real reward is the moment itself, while letting empathy and respect guide his every frame.   Stay Connected: Melissa Groo Website: https://www.melissagroo.com/ Melissa Groo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissagroo/ Melissa Groo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissa.groo Melissa Groo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-groo-23252324/ Melissa Groo Linktree: https://linktr.ee/melgroo   Bobby Stormer Website: https://robertstormer.smugmug.com/ Bobby Stormer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.stormer/ Bobby Stormer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bobby.stormer/ Bobby Stormer Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bobby_stormer32/   National Audubon Guide to Ethical Bird Photography: https://www.audubon.org/photography/awards/audubons-guide-ethical-bird-photography-and-videography Melissa's Rolling Stone article on Game Farms: https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/photography-game-farms-exploiting-wild-animals-1235002275/ B&H Explora article on the Ethics of Wildlife Photography: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/tips-and-solutions/the-ethics-of-wildlife-photography   Credits: Host: Derek Fahsbender Senior Creative Producer: Jill Waterman Senior Technical Producer: Mike Weinstein Executive Producer: Richard Stevens  

Nicholas DiLeonardi (Gitler&_____) Recorded in Miami during art fair week Nicholas DiLeonardi joins Bad at Sports from the middle of Miami art fair week, not from a booth but from the pavement between them. Assistant Director and consultant at Gitler&_____, DiLeonardi spends the week moving between fairs, collectors, hammocks, robot dogs, and banana sightings, offering a ground-level view of what art fairs actually feel like when you are advising clients rather than selling from behind a wall. The conversation moves fluidly from ranking fairs to questioning the psychic cost of sitting in a booth, from the pleasures of approachable painting to skepticism about over-packaged meaning. DiLeonardi talks candidly about advising as a practice, collecting as a responsibility, and why sometimes the best work is the work that does not want to explain itself. Along the way, the group unpacks the strange theater of Art Basel, the social logic of NADA, the pleasures and limits of Untitled, and what it means to keep showing up to a system that is both exhausting and irresistible. The episode also dives into Gitler&____'s public-facing projects, including the long-running Audubon Mural Project, and the blurred line between consultancy, gallery work, and artist support. It is a conversation about taste, access, labor, exhaustion, and the odd hope that keeps people flying back to Miami year after year. Recorded live, with roosters, bridges, hammocks, and just enough art world self-awareness to stay funny. Highlights & Moments Ranking Miami fairs while openly admitting bias Why NADA still feels like a New York fair dropped into Miami Hammocks as both seating and market distortion Untitled as the gateway fair for first-time collectors The Beeple robot dog spectacle and the freedom of not knowing how to feel about it Counting banana references across satellite fairs "No motive" painting and the desire for unmediated experience Art advising as a creative practice rather than pure transaction The psychic toll of booth sitting and forced enthusiasm Why pre-selling booths feels like theater everyone agrees to perform   Names Dropped: ·       Art Basel Miami Beach — https://www.artbasel.com/miami-beach ·       NADA Miami (New Art Dealers Alliance) — https://thenada.org/nada-miami ·       Untitled Art Fair — https://untitledartfairs.com/ ·       Scope Art Show — https://scope-artshow.com/  ·       Audubon Mural Project — https://www.audubon.org/muralproject ·       National Audubon Society — https://www.audubon.org/ ·       Beeple (Mike Winkelmann) coverage — https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/beeple-pooping-robot-dogs-at-art-basel-miami-beach-1234765375/ ·       Robert Moskowitz- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Moskowitz ·       Andrew Spence- https://andrewspenceart.com ·       Western Exhibitions- https://westernexhibitions.com ·       Submissions- https://www.submissions.art ·       Canada Gallery- https://canadagallery.com ·       Mac's Club- https://www.macsclubdeuce.com ·       Gitler&____- https://www.gitlerand.com/

It's that time of year: the Christmas Bird Count, when birders go out in flocks to record all the birds they see in a single day. The data collected during this annual tradition gets compiled by the National Audubon Society, and helps scientists understand bird population trends across the Americas. If you participate in the bird count, chances are you'll see a lot of the same birds you'd see any other day of the year—think sparrows, blue jays, blackbirds, cardinals. But that doesn't make them any less special. So this year we're turning our binoculars on a few (wrongfully) overlooked common birds.  Producer Kathleen Davis talks with two of our favorite birders, author and illustrator Rosemary Mosco, and conservation scientist Corina Newsome, to share some surprising facts about birds that don't often make it to the top of pecking order.Guests:Rosemary Mosco is an author, illustrator, and speaker whose work connects people with the natural world.Corina Newsome is a birder and conservation scientist at the National Wildlife Federation, based in Atlanta, Georgia.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com.  Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Ray Young Bear is a writer, musician and a member of Meskwaki Nation. He considers himself a word collector, writing poetry in both English and Meskwaki, his first language. And he enjoys taking photos of the birds around his home in Iowa. In the spring of 2021, he was spending time with his grandson, Ozzy Young Bear. He composed a song in Meskwaki about how his grandson enjoyed watching the robins hunt for earthworms. He later recorded the song for a music collection called, For the Birds: The Birdsong Project. Over 200 musicians, artists and writers contributed, with proceeds going to the National Audubon Society.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Negotiators representing seven states, 30 tribes, and Mexico are running out of time to agree on new rules to guide sharing of Colorado River water before a federally mandated deadline next fall. Failure to do so would forfeit water allocation authority to the Bureau of Reclamation, and costly state and tribal litigation would be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court.  Potable water supply for much of the West is not all that's at stake in managing demands on the river's supply. “Deadpool” levels in the reservoirs at Lake Powell and Lake Mead would result in inability of the Glen Canyon and Hoover Dams to generate hydropower. The establishment of new post-2026 operating guidelines among the river's competing stakeholders is a complex undertaking, consuming much of the region's attention and effort.  However, an analysis published last week by six leading scholars in the basin warns that immediate, substantial action to conserve water is needed. Their study suggests that if the coming year's patterns of water supply and use mirror past years, then by the time any hard-won new guidelines are in place, the basin may already be in serious trouble.  In this episode, study author Kathryn Sorensen and water policy expert Sarah Porter provide perspectives on the near-term science, human behavior, and potential solutions relating to conditions around the Colorado River.  Relevant articles and resources  “Analysis of Colorado River Basin Storage Suggests Need for Immediate Action” (Jack Schmidt, Anne Castle, John Fleck, Eric Kuhn, Kathryn Sorensen, Kathrine Tara, September 2025) “As the Colorado River slowly dries up, states angle for influence over future water rights” (The Conversation, August 2025)  “Inside the ‘revolutionary' new Colorado River proposal” (E&E News by Politico, July 2025)Colorado River Shortage: What This Means for Arizona & What Comes Next (Arizona Water Blueprint)  “The Colorado River needs some ‘shared pain' to break a deadlock, water experts say” (KUNC, May 2025)  “Floating Pools & Grand Bargains” (Kyl Center for Water Policy at Morrison Institute, April 2025)   Relevant Ten Across Conversations podcasts  Checking in on Tense Colorado River Negotiations with Anne Castle and John Fleck  Understanding Groundwater Risks in the Southwest with Jay Famiglietti  Experts Share Insights on the Ongoing Colorado River Negotiations  Why Everyone Should Care About the Colorado River with Rhett Larson  Getting Honest About the Colorado River Crisis with Anne Castle & John Fleck  The Future of Water is Here: Are We Ready?  CreditsHost: Duke ReiterProducer and editor: Taylor GriffithMusic by: Johan Glössner and Daniel GunnarssonResearch and support provided by: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler  About our guestsSarah Porter is the director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University's Morrison Institute for Public Policy, and professor of practice in ASU's College of Global Futures. Sarah previously served as the Arizona state director of the National Audubon Society and led their Western Rivers Project. She also serves on Governor Katie Hobbs' Water Policy Council, the City of Phoenix's Environmental Quality and Sustainability Commission, and several other community boards. In 2023, she was named to the Arizona Capitol Times Powerlist as an “Unsung Hero,” in recognition of her work on Arizona water policy.  Kathryn Sorensen is director of research at the Kyl Center for Water Policy and a Senior Global Futures Scientist at Arizona State University's Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory. Kathryn is also a member of the Colorado River Research Group and board member on the Water & Health Advisory Council. Kathryn previously served as director of City of Phoenix Water Services and director of the Water Resources Department at the City of Mesa.

Author Roger L Di Silvestro is a professional conservationist, a former editor and writer for the National Audubon Society, and also worked for Defenders of Wildlife and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. On this episode of Nature Revisited, Roger discusses the topic of his latest book Return of the Bison, which tells the story of how this symbol of the American West was once almost lost to history and of the continuing journey to bring the bison back from the brink. Weaving in natural history and interesting historical contexts, along with the key role of America's Indigenous people, Roger describes the complex history of the bison's decimation and how a rising awareness of their possible extinction formed the roots of many modern wildlife conservation approaches. [Originally published March 19th, 2024, Ep 117] Roger's website: https://rldisilvestro.com Roger's book: https://www.amazon.com/Return-Bison-Survival-Restoration-Wilder/dp/1680515837 Listen to Nature Revisited on your favorite podcast apps, on YouTube, or at https://noordenproductions.com Subscribe on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/bdz4s9d7 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/5n7yx28t Subscribe on Youtube Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bddd55v9 Podlink: https://pod.link/1456657951 Support Nature Revisited https://noordenproductions.com/support Nature Revisited is produced by Stefan van Norden and Charles Geoghegan. We welcome your comments, questions and suggestions - contact us at https://noordenproductions.com/contact

ALEJANDRO GRAJAL  Alejandro has lived and breathed the amazing natural ecosystems that make up our beloved planet. He is also an accomplished  and prolific author that currently leads Woodland Park Zoo, one of the largest zoos in America with a legacy of 126 years and one of the most important cultural and most visited institutions in Seattle.  He is internationally known for his vision to define a new relationship between humans and nature by helping to restore the deep, affective bond between people and animals. He advocates for zoos as the best community institutions to create a social movement for conservation, to foster science learning beyond the classroom, and to ensure that all people have access to nature, regardless of socioeconomic background. Before joining the zoo, Alejandro served as senior vice president for conservation, education and training at the Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo, where he headed the Center for Conservation Leadership, oversaw field conservation and research programs for the Center for the Science of Animal Welfare, and supervised education programs. Previously, he had served as executive director of international programs for the National Audubon Society and director of Latin American programs at the Wildlife Conservation Society in New York. A noted author, Alejandro's publications include 45 peer-reviewed books, chapters, and scientific and popular articles covering topics which span the psychology of conservation, measuring the impact of environmental education, the sustainable use of natural resources and ornithology, among others. He leads the Climate Literacy Zoo Education Network (CliZEN), a coalition of zoological institutions, universities and NGOs.  In 2016, Trustees of the Chicago Zoological Society awarded him the prestigious George B. Raab Medal for Conservation Leadership, recognizing his lifelong contributions to environmental and species protection, and inspiring future generations of scientists and leaders to tackle big questions about living harmoniously with all beings on the planet.  In his spare time, he is an accomplished wildlife artist whose work has been exhibited in galleries in major cities. He currently serves on the boards of Wild Welfare, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and World Trade Center Seattle. Alejandro earned his undergraduate degree in ecology from Simón Bolívar University in Caracas, Venezuela and his PhD in zoology from the University of Florida. GENERAL INFO| TOP OF THE GAME: Official website: https://topofthegame-thepod.com/ RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/topofthegame-thepod/feed.xml Hosting service show website: https://topofthegame-thepod.podbean.com/ Javier's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/javiersaade  SUPPORT & CONNECT: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/96934564 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551086203755 Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOPOFGAMEpod Subscribe on Podbean: https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/vLKLE1SKjf6G Email us: info@topofthegame-thepod.com   THANK YOU FOR LISTENING – AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PLATFORMS

We began the program with four interesting guests on topics we think you should know more about!When we think of power line corridors, we don't usually think about the habitats around them! These corridors are not just structures delivering energy across the region – they're home to many native plants, pollinators, and hundreds of wildlife species! Guest: Sean Redding, Director of Vegetation Management at Eversource Energy Are you a sugar addict? You may want to drop that extra scoop of sugar in your morning coffee because it's cutting years off your life and damaging your long-term health! Guest: Monica Serra, Health Scientist Administrator at the National Institute on Aging The first “wildfire-resilient” community has been built in California. It opened just months after the raging wildfires destroyed thousands of homes in the Los Angeles area. Steve Hawks will tell us how these homes work and what makes them fire-resistant. Guest: Steve Hawks, Senior Director for Wildfire at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety A new study out reveals 75 percent of North America's bird species are in decline - the latest sign of a slow-moving extinction crisis that threatens entire ecosystems.  Guest: Dr. Nicole Michel, Director of Quantitative Science for the National Audubon Society and co-author of the recent State of the Birds report

July 10, 2025 - The State Birding Trail has been updated with 12 locations, so we explore this resource designed for bird watchers of all experience. Our guests are Erin McGrath, New York state policy director for the National Audubon Society, and Laura McCarthy, senior manager of network engagement for the New York and Connecticut offices of the National Audubon Society.

Creating meaningful change through staff training and development in a nonprofit can feel overwhelming, especially when you're the only one driving it. In this episode, I talk with Jamie Bussey, Senior Director of Learning and Development at the National Audubon Society.Jamie joined Audubon as a team of one, inheriting a blank slate and a whole lot of opportunity. She shares how she used a needs assessment to guide her strategy, implemented scalable solutions like a learning management system and coaching programs, and launched a comprehensive people manager training called "Leading the Flock."▶️ Leading Change and Navigating Challenges as a New L&D Leader with Jamie Bussey ▶️ Key Points:03:14 Jamie's career journey from journalism to nonprofit L&D05:19 Starting L&D from scratch: challenges and early wins09:56 Designing “Leading the Flock” for people managers14:46 Creating a robust training program 17:02 Overcoming resistance and building credibility21:54 Advice for L&D leaders starting from scratch in a nonprofitResources from this episode:Join the Nonprofit Learning and Development Collective: https://www.skillmastersmarket.com/nonprofit-learning-and-development-collectiveWas this episode helpful? If you're listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, follow and leave a review!

We're back with an inside look at the zoo! President & CEO Alejandro Grajal walks us through how they raised $120M for their new exhibit, the impact of decreased tourism from Canada, and his philosophy on why zoos are so important to our society.Top Stories:1. Woodland Park Zoo's new exhibit after $110M campaignFox13 article2. International tourism is down in SeattlePSBJ article3. Microsoft to lay off 2,000 Seattle employeesGeekWire article or PSBJ article4. Nordstrom is officially a private companySeattle Magazine articleAbout guest Alejandro Grajal - President & CEO, Woodland Park Zoo:Alejandro has led since 2016 as only the eighth director in its 117-year history. He oversees more than 350 staff and all aspects of zoo operations, from exhibits and programs to fundraising and community partnerships. Prior to Woodland Park Zoo, he held senior roles at the Chicago Zoological Society, the National Audubon Society, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, focusing on conservation leadership and education.A published author with over 45 scientific and popular works, Alejandro also leads the Climate Literacy Zoo Education Network (CliZEN). He's received numerous honors, including the George B. Raab Medal for Conservation Leadership, and is an accomplished wildlife artist whose work has been exhibited nationally.About host Rachel Horgan:Rachel is an independent event producer, emcee and entrepreneur. She worked for the Business Journal for 5 years as their Director of Events interviewing business leaders on stage before launching the weekly podcast. She earned her communication degree from the University of San Diego. Contact:Email: info@theweeklyseattle.comInstagram: @theweeklyseattleWebsite: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.theweeklyseattle.com⁠⁠

We explore a wide range of topics on Episode 51, including how bison ranchers can benefit from a conservation program through the National Audubon Society, a new and improving genetics tool, and the latest in bison markets.

True birders are some of the most determined and persistent hobbyists out there. If you want to call bird watching a hobby. For many, it's more like a passion. Many look forward to “Big Day” competitions, where individuals and teams strive to see how many different bird species they can spot in a 24-hour period. Many birders log their sightings and identifications in eBird, a smartphone application created by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. The good news is that millions of birders use this app. The concerning news is that their bird sightings over a recent 14-year-period point to population declines in 75 percent of North American bird species. To learn more about this news, we've invited Dr. Amanda Rodewald from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Cornell University to join us today.

Charles Allen, Engagement Director for the Audubon Delta unit of the National Audubon Society and co-founder of the Lower 9th Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development, joins John to reflect on nearly 20 years since Hurricane Katrina and what it means for New Orleans today. They discuss his experience with post-Katrina recovery, the importance of community-led rebuilding, and how neighborhoods have navigated uneven redevelopment. Charles also explores how communities can stay engaged on the impacts of climate change and why public participation is key to building long-term resilience.

Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! On today's episode, we talk with Mike Leahy, Senior Director of Wildlife Policy for the National Wildlife Federation, about National Wildlife Federation, Wildlife Conservation, and Monarch Butterflies.  Read his full bio below.Help us continue to create great content! If you'd like to sponsor a future episode hit the support podcast button or visit www.environmentalprofessionalsradio.com/sponsor-form Showtimes: 2:15 - Nic and Laura dive into delivering bad news10:10 - Interview with Mike Leahy starts17:33 - Navigating new administrations26: 35 - Endangered Species Act32:22 - Monarch Butterflies39:49 - #fieldnotesPlease be sure to ✔️subscribe, ⭐rate and ✍review. This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.Connect with Mike Leahy at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-leahy-89a4a211/Guest Bio:Mike Leahy supports the restoration and conservation of wildlife and fish through his work on policy related to wildlife, hunting, and fishing. Mike works to update wildlife conservation strategies for the 21st century and plug gaps in wildlife policy by increasing funding for wildlife programs, establishing policies to address threats such as extinction, habitat fragmentation, disease, and lead, and by representing the conservation interests of hunters and anglers in healthy, abundant wildlife populations and habitat.Mike's work is informed by over two and half decades of work to conserve wildlife and natural resources, and an interest in all things outdoors. Mike has been Conservation Director for the Izaak Walton League of America; Rockies and Plains Director and Natural Resources Counsel for Defenders of Wildlife; and Forest Campaign Director for National Audubon Society. Mike enjoys getting out to hunt, fish, hike, and have fun in the outdoors. Mike has a law degree from Georgetown University and studied Natural Resources at Cornell University.Music CreditsIntro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace MesaOutro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs MullerSupport the showThanks for listening! A new episode drops every Friday. Like, share, subscribe, and/or sponsor to help support the continuation of the show. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and all your favorite podcast players.

This winter marks the 125th year of Audubon's Christmas Bird Count, in which bird nerds across the Western Hemisphere venture outside to record all the birds they see and hear.Scientists use that data to understand how birds are faring, where they're moving, and what they're up to when it's not breeding season. With 125 years under its belt, the Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running community science program in the world.How do scientists use this data? And what have they learned in those 125 years? Ira Flatow talks with Dr. Brooke Bateman, senior director of climate and community science at the National Audubon Society, and Dr. Janet Ng, wildlife biologist at Environment and Climate Change Canada in Regina, Canada.Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Visiting Woodstock for the National Audubon Society's annual Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science project used to track the health of different species. Plus, the Agency of Agriculture begins testing Vermont's milk supply for bird flu, the Scott administration considers allowing Vermonters to play the lottery online, a long-serving member of Burlington's city council will not seek reelection, developers of a new ski village at Killington hope to begin construction next year, why the Dartmouth men's basketball team has dropped its attempt to unionize, and we preview the meaningful games that will round out the NFL's regular season in our first weekly sports report of the new year.

Earlier this month, Homer residents took part in the annual Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science project organized by the National Audubon Society, and Alaska is home to over a dozen rugby teams, including two on the central Kenai Peninsula.

Earlier this month, Homer residents took part in the annual Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science project organized by the National Audubon Society; and travelers on the Alaska Marine Highway's ferry Columbia got an unexpected Christmas present on a recent trip from Bellingham to Southeast Alaska: Wi-Fi.

Since 1970, the bird population in North America has declined by about 3 billion birds. In Season 8, Episode 5, host Sarah Thorne and Jeff King, National Lead of the Engineering With Nature (EWN) Program, US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), are joined by special guest, Dr. Elizabeth Gray, CEO of the National Audubon Society. Elizabeth is an ornithologist and a world-renowned champion of science-based conservation and leads an organization dedicated to protecting birds by altering the course of biodiversity loss. Elizabeth is the first woman CEO of Audubon since its founding in 1905. In her lifetime, Elizabeth has seen significant changes in bird populations. “This is just really tragic, and we know two-thirds of those birds are threatened by climate change. When I go out in the field, I see increasing habitat loss and habitat fragmentation. Climate change is a magnifier of all these effects, and birds are indicators of planetary health—really the sentinels and the symbols of how the planet's doing.”Audubon's 5-year strategic plan, called “Flight Plan,” is designed to “bend the bird curve”—to halt, and ultimately reverse, this decline of birds across the Americas by using science; building strong partnerships; and finding solutions that are positive for birds, for people, and for the planet. “We believe that what birds need—clean water, clean air, a healthy food system, a healthy climate—is also what people need.” Elizabeth notes how these efforts continue a tradition going back to the early 1900s when Audubon began protecting one of the last Reddish Egret rookeries. These efforts grew into Audubon's Coastal Bird Stewardship program, which now has over 500 sites in coastal areas, 1500 volunteers, and 250 partner organizations.Collaboration and partnerships are key to addressing these complex and interconnected issues and Audubon is well known for bringing together unlikely partners, industry, local communities, policy makers, decision-makers, government officials, Indigenous communities, and other conservation organizations. “We often have different priorities, but we've found that you can get people who have different priorities, even different values, certainly different approaches, to sit at a table if you can align around the outcome that you want to achieve together.” She adds that birds are Audubon's “superpower.” “Birds don't pay attention to geographic boundaries. They don't pay attention to what divides people or countries and things like that. They're really the ultimate unifier here. And I think to me, birds remind us of our shared humanity and the fact that we really share this planet.”Nature-based solutions (NBS) play a key role in Audubon's efforts. As Elizabeth notes, NBS can contribute significant greenhouse gas reductions through protecting, restoring, and appropriately managing natural areas, coastal systems, mangroves, grasslands, and forests while also delivering cobenefits to nature and society. Jeff notes the strong synergy and alignment between the mission of Audubon and the objectives of EWN. “With nature-based solutions, we can create resilience while also enhancing habitat and biodiversity and accomplish many more cobenefits. I see so many things that are complementary here, and I'm just excited about what you're doing and seeing on the horizon within Audubon.” For more information and resource links, please visit the EWN Podcast page on the EWN website at https://www.engineeringwithnature.org/  Jeff King at LinkedInElizabeth Gray at LinkedIn 

How the Coming Home Tour supports LGBTQ Wisconsinites during the holidays. National Audubon Society's annual Christmas Bird Count. The new Milwaukee Community Orchestra holds its first concert this Sunday.

The St. Paul and Minneapolis Audubon chapters have dropped the contentious naturalist's namesake from their titles, rebranding their organizations as the St. Paul Bird Alliance and Land of Lakes Bird Alliance, respectively. It follows an evolving, countrywide trend after the National Audubon Society leadership voted down removing the association with John James Audubon from its name last year. Born in 1785, Audubon was a groundbreaking artist, naturalist and ornithologist whose work is still widely used today, but was funded by the slave trade. He's also accused of plagiarism, academic fraud and other “despicable things,” the society says. “The name might not have been a barrier for the current members, but as an organization that wants to grow and really serve the birds and protect the habitat, we needed to incorporate more people into the organization,” Latina photographer Monica Bryand, who joined the St. Paul Bird Alliance's board about a year ago and identifies as queer, told MPR News. “In Minnesota, with the growing number of BIPOC and LGBTQ folks, we needed something different… [to] grow the organization.”Currently its co-chair, Bryand has served on the alliance's conservation committee for a decade. But it took the National Audubon Society rejecting a name change and a nudge from St. Paul's chapter president for her to accept a spot on the board and to be part of a local solution. President Greg Burnes “knew and understood that it was more than just a name change, that we had to work inside the organization to make it more welcoming and inclusive, and I wanted to be in there. And if I wanted this, I needed to be in it with them,” Bryand said. Black, Native and queer people have long felt like there was no place in such societies or out in nature for them, according to Bryand. A birder now for more than 20 years, she long felt like she didn't see herself reflected in the organization. Six years ago, she decided to change that and create a safe space for people of color and LGBTQ+ people with the Urban Bird Collective. The group helps these communities get out and explore nature while redefining who is considered an expert in birding and conservation. “And what I tell people, what I tell outdoor organizations — and organizations like Audubon — is that while I created this space, BIPOC and LGBT folks shouldn't need to find me. They might not find the Urban Bird Collective, and they shouldn't have to,” Bryand said. Organizations like nature centers and Audubon “have all the resources. And I want BIPOC folks to feel comfortable and welcomed in all of those spaces.” Meanwhile, there's an effort underway by the American Ornithological Society to change the names of bird species associated with people, racism and colonialism. That, too, has gotten pushback similar to that experienced by Audubon. Bryand believes it's a step in the right direction. She also hopes those who didn't support a societal name change understand why some members wanted it and are willing to learn why, thus opening the door for more people of various backgrounds and demographics to be welcomed into organizations like the St. Paul Bird Alliance.

Today the Audubon Society chapters in St. Paul and Minneapolis announced they're dropping the "Audubon" name because of John Audubon's history of racism and slave owning. Is this too far? Or a legitimate re-evaluation of history? (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for The National Audubon Society)

Melissa Groo is an American conservation photographer and writer. She is a Sony Artisan of Imagery, an Associate Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers, an advisor to the National Audubon Society on photography content and ethics, and a contributing editor to Audubon magazine.Her work has also appeared on the covers of Smithsonian, Natural History, Living Bird, and Outdoor Photographer magazines and in publications such as National Geographicand National Wildlife.Melissa has been awarded the “Jay N. Ding Darling Memorial Award for Wildlife Stewardship Through Art,” from The Wildlife Society, the Audubon Connecticut's Katie O'Brien Lifetime Achievement Award and NANPA's Vision Award among others.She's a passionate advocate for wildlife and has been fighting to raise awareness about the unethical nature of photo game farms. She lives in Ithaca, New York, USA.Notable Links:Melissa Groo WebsiteMelissa Groo InstagramThe Ugly Truth About the Wild Animals of Instagram | Rolling Stone April 24, 2024International League of Conservation Photographers*****This episode was brought to you by Luminar Neo.Powered by AI technologies, Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.Luminar uses generative AI to intelligently analyze your photos and erase distracting elements in your compositions, add realistic objects that seamlessly blend into the background, or expand the frame in any direction. If that's not your thing, Luminar is still one of the most powerful photo editors for natural and realistic images too. Luminar Neo has all the features you need to enhance your images with precision and ease.You can use Luminar Neo as a standalone app on your PC or Mac computer or as a plugin for Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, so you can keep your existing workflow.Learn more about Luminar Neo and how it can amplify your creative vision for your photos  by visiting skylum.com.*****This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I've tried all of them, but in recent years I've landed on Kase Filters.Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit.beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

“We all live downstream” is one of the mottos of Mr. Jonny Morris, the Founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops.  Bubba Wright lets this motto serve as the north star for everything he does as the Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar Lodge.  Whether it's by reducing its footprint or providing habitats for wildlife, Big Cedar Lodge strives to leave everything better than they found it. They're achieving this by using organic fertilizers, installing new water systems to conserve water, and making sure their courses are Audubon-certified. Bubba shares his heart for conservation and passion for cultivating a strong culture in this conversation on the Golf Sustainability podcast.  Topics covered: Bubba's career journey to his current role at Big Cedar Lodge [1:20–4:42]  The history of Big Cedar Lodge [4:43–6:31]  The Big Cedar Lodge philosophy around conservation and sustainability [6:32–13:43]  Their relationship with the National Audubon Society and other partners [13:44]  The technology that's being developed to advance sustainability [19:03]  Getting to know Bubba Wright on a personal level [22:51]  Resources & People Mentioned The National Audubon Society John Deere Rainbird Environmental Works Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Connect with Bubba Wright Connect on LinkedIn Big Cedar Lodge Golf Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn  Facebook  Instagram X (Twitter) Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple Podcast  Spotify  Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin speaks with Emily Kelly from the Blue Carbon Action Network at the World Economic Forum. They discuss the tangible actions to combat climate change through restoration and blue carbon projects, focusing on restoring mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses. Emily highlights the human-centric approach of these projects, which not only benefit the environment but also support local communities. Tune in to learn more about the global, national, and local efforts to protect the ocean and combat climate change. Website: https://www.bluecarbonactionpartnership.org/home Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube Engaging in public comment opportunities and community discussions can play a crucial role in preventing the development of natural areas for human-centric purposes. As discussed in the podcast episode with Emily Kelly from the Blue Carbon Action Network, the importance of being aware of the natural areas around you and taking action to protect them was highlighted. For example, the episode mentioned a situation where Florida State Parks were at risk of being developed into golf courses and resorts. Organizations like the National Audubon Society and other conservation groups raised awareness about public comment periods and public meetings to allow the community to voice their concerns. This led to a delay in the development plans, showcasing the power of public engagement in protecting natural areas. By participating in public comment opportunities and community discussions, individuals can have a say in the decision-making process regarding the development of natural areas. It allows community members to express their concerns, share their perspectives, and advocate for the preservation of these valuable ecosystems. Public engagement can bring attention to the importance of these areas for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, shoreline protection, and community well-being. Furthermore, spreading awareness about public comment opportunities within local neighborhoods can mobilize more individuals to participate in the decision-making process. By discussing the significance of preserving natural areas and encouraging community involvement, people can collectively work towards safeguarding these ecosystems for future generations. Public engagement serves as a powerful tool in advocating for the protection of natural areas and ensuring sustainable development practices that prioritize environmental conservation. Celebrating successes and rewarding behavior that uplifts the ocean is a crucial aspect of contributing to ocean protection efforts. In the podcast episode, Emily Kelly emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting companies with sustainable practices. By investing in tourism destinations or purchasing seafood from companies that prioritize ecosystem management, individuals can actively contribute to protecting the ocean. Additionally, engaging with companies that are making positive impacts on the environment and supporting their initiatives can help drive positive change. The episode highlighted the significance of valuing blue carbon ecosystems and the core benefits they provide to local communities. By acknowledging and promoting the successes of projects that focus on restoring mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes, individuals can play a role in encouraging sustainable practices. This positive reinforcement can incentivize more companies and organizations to prioritize environmental conservation and invest in projects that benefit both the ecosystem and local communities. Furthermore, being aware of local ecosystems and advocating for their protection through public comment processes, as discussed in the episode, is another way individuals can actively participate in ocean protection efforts. By engaging in community discussions and raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural areas, individuals can contribute to safeguarding blue carbon habitats and promoting sustainable practices in their regions.  

Chris Palmer is an author, speaker, wildlife filmmaker, conservationist, educator, professor, and grandfather. He dedicated his professional career to conservation but now devotes his life to end-of-life activism. Bloomsbury will publish his 10th book, Achieving a Good Death: A Practical Guide to the End of Life, on October 1, 2024. He is a trained hospice volunteer and founded and runs an aging, death, and dying group for the Bethesda Metro Area Village. He serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Montgomery Hospice & Prince George's Hospice (MHI), is vice president of the Board of the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Maryland & Environs (FCAME), and serves on the Advisory Council for the Maryland Office of Cemetery Oversight (OCO). He also serves on the Boards of Final Exit Network, Hemlock Society of San Diego, and Funeral Consumers Alliance. He is on the Bethesda Metro Area Village Board and, until recently, was a Board member of the Green Burial Association of Maryland. Chris and his wife, Gail Shearer, created and funded the “Finishing Strong Award” with the Washington Area Village Exchange (WAVE) to encourage villages to hold more discussions about end-of-life issues. WAVE is the largest regional village organization in the nation. He frequently gives presentations and workshops to community groups on aging, death, and dying issues. Chris is also president of the MacGillivray Freeman Films Educational Foundation, which produces and funds IMAX films on science and conservation issues. MacGillivray Freeman Films is the world's largest and most successful producer of IMAX films. For over thirty-five years, he spearheaded the production of more than 300 hours of original programming for prime-time television and the IMAX film industry, which won him and his colleagues many awards, including two Emmys and an Oscar nomination. He has worked with Robert Redford, Paul Newman, Jane Fonda, Ted Turner, and many other celebrities. His IMAX films include Whales, Wolves, Dolphins, Bears, Coral Reef Adventure, and Grand Canyon Adventure. During his filmmaking career, he swam with dolphins and whales, came face-to-face with sharks and Kodiak bears, camped with wolf packs, and waded hip-deep through Everglade swamps. His books include Finding Meaning and Success: Living a Fulfilled and Productive Life, published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2021. Proceeds from all of Chris's books fund scholarships for American University students. Starting in 2004, Chris served on American University's full-time faculty as Distinguished Film Producer in Residence until his retirement in 2018. While at AU, he founded and directed the Center for Environmental Filmmaking at the School of Communication. He also created and taught a popular class called Design Your Life for Success. Chris and his wife, Gail, have lived in Bethesda, Maryland, for nearly 50 years and raised three daughters. They now have nine grandchildren. Chris was a stand-up comic for five years and has advanced degrees from London and Harvard. He has jumped out of helicopters, worked on an Israeli kibbutz, and was a high school boxing champion. Chris is currently learning to juggle, draw, dance, play tennis, and play the piano. He loves standing on his hands for exercise, keeps a daily gratitude journal, and has a 30-page personal mission statement. More information on Chris: Chris's filmmaking career began in 1983 when he founded National Audubon Society Productions, a nonprofit film company and part of the National Audubon Society, which he led as president and CEO for eleven years. In 1994, he founded National Wildlife Productions, a nonprofit multimedia company and part of the National Wildlife Federation, which he led as president and CEO for ten years. His first two published books were on wildlife filmmaking: Shooting in the Wild in 2010 and Confessions of a Wildlife Filmmaker in 2015. They were followed by Raise Your Kids to Succeed: What Every Parent Should Know in 2017 and Now What, Grad? Your Path to Success After College (First Edition in 2015 and the Second Edition in 2018). In 2019, he wrote College Teaching at its Best: Inspiring Students to be Enthusiastic, Lifelong Learners, and in 2021, he wrote Finding Meaning and Success: Living a Fulfilled and Productive Life. Rowman & Littlefield published his last five books. His next book, for Bloomsbury Publishing, is Achieving a Good Death. Bethesda Communications Group published Love, Dad in 2018, a 700-page book of his letters to his daughters, and Open Heart: When Open-Heart Surgery Becomes Your Best Option in 2021, a book co-written with his daughter Christina (a family doctor). Chris and Christina have written half a dozen books for children on health-related issues. Chris gives pro bono presentations and workshops on various topics, including how to live a meaningful and successful life, aging well, achieving a good death, living well to die well, medical aid-in-dying, decluttering and death cleaning, completing advance directives, writing memoirs, composing legacy letters and ethical wills, funeral planning, green ways of body disposition, and hospice care. In 2015, Chris spoke on wildlife filmmaking at TEDxAmericanUniversity. While teaching at AU, he was a stand-up comedian and performed regularly in DC comedy clubs for five years. In 2017, he founded and now directs a group on aging and dying well as part of the Bethesda Metro Area Village, where he serves as a Board member. Chris was honored with the Frank G. Wells Award from the Environmental Media Association and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Media at the 2009 International Wildlife Film Festival. In 2010, he was honored at the Green Globe Awards in Los Angeles with the Environmental Film Educator of the Decade award. In 2011, he received the IWFF Wildlife Hero of the Year Award for his “determined campaign to reform the wildlife filmmaking industry.” In 2012, he received the Ronald B. Tobias Award for Achievement in Science and Natural History Filmmaking Education. In addition, he received the 2014 University Faculty Award for Outstanding Teaching at AU, the 2015 University Film and Video Association Teaching Award, and the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Wildlife Film Festival. In his twenty years before becoming a film producer, Chris was an officer in the Royal Navy, an engineer, a business consultant, an energy analyst, an environmental activist, chief energy advisor to a senior U.S. senator, and a political appointee in the Environmental Protection Agency under President Jimmy Carter. Chris holds a B.S. with First Class Honors in Mechanical Engineering, an M.S. in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture from University College London, and a master's in Public Administration from Harvard University. He was also a Kennedy Scholar and received a Harkness Fellowship. Born in Hong Kong, Chris grew up in England and immigrated to the United States in 1972. He is married to Gail Shearer and is the father of three grown daughters: Kimberly, Christina, and Jennifer. He and Gail have endowed a scholarship for environmental film students at AU to honor Chris's parents and encourage the next generation to save the planet. christopher.n.palmer@gmail.com www.ChrisPalmerOnline.com

Over the last few years, writer Emily Raboteau has been going out and photographing a series of bird murals found throughout New York City commissioned by the National Audubon Society. One day, she came across an artist finishing up a Gray Hawk mural in west Harlem. The artist explained that she had chosen to paint that species because the gray feathers reminded her of the color of her mother's hair.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org. Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible. 

In this episode Kent Carnie, Curator Emeritus of the Archives of Falconry, joins me  to discuss an account he has written which he refers to as an “eventful period during which American falconry evolved”, and our sport “came of age”. That period spans the years from 1965 until 1976, and is what Kent refers to as “The Twelve Turbulent Years”.  The objective of this episode is to detail highlights that transpired during that time frame. Kent provides a nice description of the background that gave rise to North American Falconry, and highlights the landmark event responsible for describing the magnitude of the decline of the peregrine falcon at the 1965 conference in Madison, Wisconsin, organized by Joseph Hickey. Kent tells us that by 1966 the preservation lobby was looking to lay the blame for declining peregrine populations somewhere; falconers and falconry were easily identifiable as the de facto cause. Kent Tell us about NAFA's  response and in particular, Fran Hamerstom's warning that American falconry was tied closely to the fate of the peregrine falcon.1967 saw the National Audubon Society become involved, also raising concern that falconry posed a threat to the well-being of raptors. Kent details how NAFA responded to the concerns expressed by the Audubon Society, an in particular, the communications that occurred in the fall of 1968 between Roland Clement of the Audubon Society and NAFA representatives.1969 looked grim for peregrine falcon populations, and again falconers were front and center of the efforts to assess and reverse the apparent declines. Kent steps us through the events that occurred at the Audubon-sponsored "Meeting Concerning the Conservation of North America Falcons" in March of 1969, and then explains decisions that were made at the November symposium that focused of the status of peregrine falcon populations and availability of birds to falconers.1970 was a pivotal year in the efforts to avoid over-reach due to the Endangered Species Act, and vilification of falconry and falconers due to a self-inflicted  misstep that literally left the existence of falconry in jeopardy. Kent leads us through the circumstances that unfolded and explains what NAFA did to mitigate the fallout for falconry.

Emily Raboteau's book, Lessons for Survival, begins with a painting of two Burrowing Owls on the security gate of a local business in West Harlem, near where she teaches. Intrigued, she found more bird murals nearby, later learning that they are part of a collaborative effort between the National Audubon Society and artists to highlight bird species at risk of extinction due to climate change. Emily decided to seek out all the murals and photograph them before they disappear – because like birds, street art is ephemeral.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org. Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.

In 2019, several co-workers at the National Audubon Society formed a team for the World Series of Birding that focused on identifying female birds. Called the Galbatrosses, they sought to highlight how female birds have been understudied and unfairly written off as quieter and less interesting. Since then, the Galbatrosses have led events about IDing female birds and held the first Female Bird Day over Memorial Day weekend in 2020. Learn how to participate in this year's Female Bird Day here.More info and transcript at BirdNote.org. Want more BirdNote? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Sign up for BirdNote+ to get ad-free listening and other perks. BirdNote is a nonprofit. Your tax-deductible gift makes these shows possible.

This week, I get the opportunity to talk with Stephanie Cook about her career journey and most recent experiences with the National Audubon Society. We talk about how her broad higher education experience prepared her to work in a more niche area with a non-natural constituency base.   Stephanie Cook brings over 20 years of experience to her work as a fundraising executive for the National Audubon Society—leading operations, donor services, and fundraising teams on behalf of the international conservation NGO. Prior to joining Audubon, she led NYC-based regional advancement teams for Syracuse University and Villanova University, where she led teams of development professionals charged with building relationships with and securing philanthropic support from alumni, parents, and friends. Her early career included service as a major gift officer for Columbia University and the Wildlife Conservation Society as well as in support of the fundraising efforts on behalf of the Central Park Conservancy. She is a native of Madison, Wisconsin and holds a BFA from the University of Kentucky in acting/theatre and an MS from Columbia University in fundraising and non-profit management. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/devdebrief/support

For many, the name Audubon conjures up images of birds or birdwatchers venturing into nature with a pair of binoculars to catch a glimpse of a beloved warbler or bird of prey. But for some, the name can evoke a painful reminder of the legacy of John James Audubon – an artist, self-taught ornithologist and naturalist who owned slaves, opposed abolition and stole human remains from Native American graves. Acknowledging that painful history, the Portland chapter of the National Audubon Society recently changed its name to Bird Alliance of Oregon. The group joins other chapters in Seattle, Chicago, San Francisco and elsewhere that have either adopted a new name or committed to doing so, despite the national organization’s decision to stick with the Audubon name. We hear from Stuart Wells, the executive director of Bird Alliance of Oregon, about the significance of its new name, especially for people of color and other marginalized groups who continue to face barriers to recreate in nature.    

How can we reimagine a world with plastic? How can we push governments and companies to admit what they know about the health impacts of plastics and change public policy?Kathleen Rogers is the President of EARTHDAY.ORG. Under her leadership, it has grown into a global year-round policy and activist organization with an international staff. She has been at the vanguard of developing campaigns and programs focused on diversifying the environmental movement, highlighted by Campaign for Communities and Billion Acts of Green. Prior to her work at EARTHDAY.ORG, Kathleen held senior positions with the National Audubon Society, the Environmental Law Institute, and two U.S. Olympic Organizing Committees. She's a graduate of the University of California at Davis School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the law review and clerked in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. EARTHDAY.ORG's 2024 theme, Planet vs. Plastics, calls to advocate for widespread awareness of the health risks of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand to end fast fashion. Let's build a plastic-free planet for generations to come."The world recognizes that plastics have imperiled our future. Many environmentalists, myself included, view plastics as on par with, if not worse than, climate change because we do see a little light at the end of the tunnel on climate change. Babies vs. Plastics is a collection of studies, and we particularly focused on children and babies because their bodies and brains are more impacted than adults by the 30, 000 chemicals that assault us every day.We have histories littered with dozens of stories and court cases of malfeasance where companies knew for years before we, the public, did about the impacts. Climate change is a perfect example because we know Exxon scientists knew in 1957 that burning fossil fuels was creating climate change and that eventually, the temperature of the planet would heat up, and they hid it from us for 50-plus years. And more and more reports are coming out every day about what companies and some governments know. Tobacco companies knew tobacco caused cancer for decades before our scientists did. And so we have the same problem with plastics.”Planet vs. Plastics www.earthday.org Sign The Global Plastic Treaty Petition https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty Toolkits: https://www.earthday.org/our-toolkits NDC Guide for Climate Education https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NDC-GUIDE-Final.pdfwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcastPhotos courtesy of EARTHDAY.ORG

How can we reimagine a world with plastic? How can we push governments and companies to admit what they know about the health impacts of plastics and change public policy?Kathleen Rogers is the President of EARTHDAY.ORG. Under her leadership, it has grown into a global year-round policy and activist organization with an international staff. She has been at the vanguard of developing campaigns and programs focused on diversifying the environmental movement, highlighted by Campaign for Communities and Billion Acts of Green. Prior to her work at EARTHDAY.ORG, Kathleen held senior positions with the National Audubon Society, the Environmental Law Institute, and two U.S. Olympic Organizing Committees. She's a graduate of the University of California at Davis School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the law review and clerked in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. EARTHDAY.ORG's 2024 theme, Planet vs. Plastics, calls to advocate for widespread awareness of the health risks of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand to end fast fashion. Let's build a plastic-free planet for generations to come."The world recognizes that plastics have imperiled our future. Many environmentalists, myself included, view plastics as on par with, if not worse than, climate change because we do see a little light at the end of the tunnel on climate change. Babies vs. Plastics is a collection of studies, and we particularly focused on children and babies because their bodies and brains are more impacted than adults by the 30, 000 chemicals that assault us every day.We have histories littered with dozens of stories and court cases of malfeasance where companies knew for years before we, the public, did about the impacts. Climate change is a perfect example because we know Exxon scientists knew in 1957 that burning fossil fuels was creating climate change and that eventually, the temperature of the planet would heat up, and they hid it from us for 50-plus years. And more and more reports are coming out every day about what companies and some governments know. Tobacco companies knew tobacco caused cancer for decades before our scientists did. And so we have the same problem with plastics.”Planet vs. Plastics www.earthday.org Sign The Global Plastic Treaty Petition https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty Toolkits: https://www.earthday.org/our-toolkits NDC Guide for Climate Education https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NDC-GUIDE-Final.pdfwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcastPhotos courtesy of EARTHDAY.ORG

How can we reimagine a world with plastic? How can we push governments and companies to admit what they know about the health impacts of plastics and change public policy?Kathleen Rogers is the President of EARTHDAY.ORG. Under her leadership, it has grown into a global year-round policy and activist organization with an international staff. She has been at the vanguard of developing campaigns and programs focused on diversifying the environmental movement, highlighted by Campaign for Communities and Billion Acts of Green. Prior to her work at EARTHDAY.ORG, Kathleen held senior positions with the National Audubon Society, the Environmental Law Institute, and two U.S. Olympic Organizing Committees. She's a graduate of the University of California at Davis School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the law review and clerked in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. EARTHDAY.ORG's 2024 theme, Planet vs. Plastics, calls to advocate for widespread awareness of the health risks of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand to end fast fashion. Let's build a plastic-free planet for generations to come."The world recognizes that plastics have imperiled our future. Many environmentalists, myself included, view plastics as on par with, if not worse than, climate change because we do see a little light at the end of the tunnel on climate change. Babies vs. Plastics is a collection of studies, and we particularly focused on children and babies because their bodies and brains are more impacted than adults by the 30, 000 chemicals that assault us every day.We have histories littered with dozens of stories and court cases of malfeasance where companies knew for years before we, the public, did about the impacts. Climate change is a perfect example because we know Exxon scientists knew in 1957 that burning fossil fuels was creating climate change and that eventually, the temperature of the planet would heat up, and they hid it from us for 50-plus years. And more and more reports are coming out every day about what companies and some governments know. Tobacco companies knew tobacco caused cancer for decades before our scientists did. And so we have the same problem with plastics.”Planet vs. Plastics www.earthday.org Sign The Global Plastic Treaty Petition https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty Toolkits: https://www.earthday.org/our-toolkits NDC Guide for Climate Education https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NDC-GUIDE-Final.pdfwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcastPhotos courtesy of EARTHDAY.ORG

How can we reimagine a world without plastic? How can we push governments and companies to admit what they know about the health impacts of plastics and change public policy?Kathleen Rogers is the President of EARTHDAY.ORG. Under her leadership, it has grown into a global year-round policy and activist organization with an international staff. She has been at the vanguard of developing campaigns and programs focused on diversifying the environmental movement, highlighted by Campaign for Communities and Billion Acts of Green. Prior to her work at EARTHDAY.ORG, Kathleen held senior positions with the National Audubon Society, the Environmental Law Institute, and two U.S. Olympic Organizing Committees. She's a graduate of the University of California at Davis School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the law review and clerked in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. EARTHDAY.ORG's 2024 theme, Planet vs. Plastics, calls to advocate for widespread awareness of the health risks of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand to end fast fashion. Let's build a plastic-free planet for generations to come."The world recognizes that plastics have imperiled our future. Many environmentalists, myself included, view plastics as on par with, if not worse than, climate change because we do see a little light at the end of the tunnel on climate change. Babies vs. Plastics is a collection of studies, and we particularly focused on children and babies because their bodies and brains are more impacted than adults by the 30, 000 chemicals that assault us every day.We have histories littered with dozens of stories and court cases of malfeasance where companies knew for years before we, the public, did about the impacts. Climate change is a perfect example because we know Exxon scientists knew in 1957 that burning fossil fuels was creating climate change and that eventually, the temperature of the planet would heat up, and they hid it from us for 50-plus years. And more and more reports are coming out every day about what companies and some governments know. Tobacco companies knew tobacco caused cancer for decades before our scientists did. And so we have the same problem with plastics.”Planet vs. Plastics www.earthday.org Sign The Global Plastic Treaty Petition https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty Toolkits: https://www.earthday.org/our-toolkits NDC Guide for Climate Education https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NDC-GUIDE-Final.pdfwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcastPhotos courtesy of EARTHDAY.ORG

How can we reimagine a world without plastic? How can we push governments and companies to admit what they know about the health impacts of plastics and change public policy?Kathleen Rogers is the President of EARTHDAY.ORG. Under her leadership, it has grown into a global year-round policy and activist organization with an international staff. She has been at the vanguard of developing campaigns and programs focused on diversifying the environmental movement, highlighted by Campaign for Communities and Billion Acts of Green. Prior to her work at EARTHDAY.ORG, Kathleen held senior positions with the National Audubon Society, the Environmental Law Institute, and two U.S. Olympic Organizing Committees. She's a graduate of the University of California at Davis School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the law review and clerked in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. EARTHDAY.ORG's 2024 theme, Planet vs. Plastics, calls to advocate for widespread awareness of the health risks of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand to end fast fashion. Let's build a plastic-free planet for generations to come."The world recognizes that plastics have imperiled our future. Many environmentalists, myself included, view plastics as on par with, if not worse than, climate change because we do see a little light at the end of the tunnel on climate change. Babies vs. Plastics is a collection of studies, and we particularly focused on children and babies because their bodies and brains are more impacted than adults by the 30, 000 chemicals that assault us every day.We have histories littered with dozens of stories and court cases of malfeasance where companies knew for years before we, the public, did about the impacts. Climate change is a perfect example because we know Exxon scientists knew in 1957 that burning fossil fuels was creating climate change and that eventually, the temperature of the planet would heat up, and they hid it from us for 50-plus years. And more and more reports are coming out every day about what companies and some governments know. Tobacco companies knew tobacco caused cancer for decades before our scientists did. And so we have the same problem with plastics.”Planet vs. Plastics www.earthday.org Sign The Global Plastic Treaty Petition https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty Toolkits: https://www.earthday.org/our-toolkits NDC Guide for Climate Education https://www.earthday.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NDC-GUIDE-Final.pdfwww.creativeprocess.infowww.oneplanetpodcast.orgIG www.instagram.com/creativeprocesspodcastPhotos courtesy of EARTHDAY.ORG

Every year birders across the world trek out into the rain, sun, sleet, or wind to participate in the Christmas Bird Count, organized by the National Audubon Society. The massive community science project, in its 124th year, tracks bird population fluctuations from year to year. This year's count runs from December 14 to January 5.Ira and guest host Flora Lichtman are joined by Ariana Remmel, a birder and freelance journalist based in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Dr. Anuj Ghimire, a birder and wildlife ecologist at North Dakota State University. They give a preview of this year's Christmas Bird Count and take listener questions.  Transcripts for each segment will be available the week after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. To stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

  Our story tonight is called Stone Fruit and it's a story about a sweet part of the summer season. It's also about how many pecks make a bushel, lovely silly kid logic, apple blossoms and vanilla and picking the best peach with your own two hands. We give to a different charity each week and this week we are giving to the National Audubon Society https://www.audubon.org/ “We protect birds and the places they need.” Purchase Our Book: https://bit.ly/Nothing-Much-HappensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sewage Is A Biological Necessity, And A Methane Minefield In most cities, once you flush a toilet, the water and waste flows through the sewage system to a water treatment plant. Once it's there, it goes through a series of chemical and biological processes which clean it up and make the water safe to drink again. But a recent paper in the journal Environmental Science & Technology finds that some of those sewage plants may be having a greater impact on the climate than previously thought. The anaerobic decomposition of organic material in the waste stream at sewage plants produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The researchers used an electric car fitted with a suite of atmospheric gas sensors to sniff the emissions downwind of 63 sewage treatment plants at different times and during different seasons. They found that the wastewater treatment process may release amounts of methane nearly twice that estimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In a related study, other researchers analyzed data from published monitoring of wastewater treatment facilities around the globe—and arrived at a similar estimate of the methane production. Mark Zondlo, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Princeton University, and one of the authors of the methane-sniffing research, talks with guest host Shahla Farzan about the studies, and about what might be done to mitigate the methane impact of treating our cities' sewage.   Meet The Activist Reimagining Climate Education As a high school student, Sage Lenier remembers being frustrated with the way she was taught about climate change. It left her feeling helpless, contending with the gloomy predictions for a doom-filled future. Despite talking about the problems, she wasn't learning anything about solutions. A year later at the University of California, Berkeley, Sage took it upon herself to create the course she wished she had—one focused on solutions and hope. Nearly 2,000 students have taken her course since, and she recently founded Sustainable & Just Future, a youth-led educational non-profit. Guest host Kathleen Davis talks with Sage about her experiences, why we've gotten climate education all wrong, and how we need to be thinking about our future.   The First Fully Mapped Animal Brain Is The Larva Of A Fruit Fly Understanding how a brain works is one of the most challenging tasks in science. One of the ultimate goals in brain research is to develop brain maps, which catalog which neurons are connected to others, and where. If researchers have a brain map, they can better understand neurological conditions like addiction, and develop more effective treatments. It may even help scientists understand more abstract concepts, like consciousness. The catch? Mapping millions, or even billions, of tiny little neurons is an extremely challenging and expensive task. But a team of researchers at Johns Hopkins University recently completed a 12-year effort to map the entire brain of a fruit fly larva, which is the size of a grain of salt, and contains 3,000 neurons and 500,00 connections. Their results were published in the journal Science. Joining guest host Shahla Farzan is the paper's senior author Joshua Vogelstein, an associate professor of biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University. They talk about how exactly his team completed this task, when a human brain map might be completed, and how this could be a meaningful step in understanding how enlightenment works.   National Audubon Society Sticks With Its Name, Despite Namesake's Racism For more than a year, the National Audubon Society—one of the largest bird conservation groups—mulled over a big decision: whether or not they should rename the organization. Its namesake, John James Audubon, is known as the founding father of American birding. But Audubon and his family were anti-abolition and they enslaved nine people in their home. He also actively harmed and looted from Indigenous people. Earlier this month, the National Audubon Society announced its decision to keep “Audubon” in its name, saying that it's important in allowing the organization to keep protecting birds. The open letter also says the organization represents “much more than the work of one person.” The decision to stick with the Audubon name has been met with intense backlash, from birders, local branches, and even its own employees. A handful of locally-run Audubon branches, from New York City to Madison, Wisconsin, plan to change their names to nix the word Audubon. Seattle's branch is renaming itself “Birds Connect Seattle,” and Washington D.C.'s Audubon Naturalist Society is now “Nature Forward.” Guest host Kathleen Davis speaks with Stuart Wells, executive director of Portland Audubon and conservation scientist Corina Newsome about their reactions to the National Audubon Society keeping its name, and how changes are happening locally, including in places like Portland.   Transcripts for each segment will be available the week after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.