
Saigas Straight From Seuss
On our throwback Monday, its the Saiga! Out of all the species we have covered, the Saiga's conservation story is critical to understanding out wildlife. Due to dangerous low population levels, Saiga are prone to infectious diseases. In 2015, hundreds of thousands Saiga died within a few weeks. To understand the Saiga story, is critical to understand the pressures many species are facing!! You can learn more with our Show Notes HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11 Marras 20241h

Bald Eagles Are Back
Chris welcomed a new addition to his family this weekend. Thus, in light of the election in the United States of America, we are releasing our older episode on Bald Eagles. These magnificent birds are not only symbolic, they also have an incredible conservation success story! A great podcast to revisit for a worthy bird. Show notes on new website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6 Marras 20241h 18min

The Urgent Need for Biodiversity Conservation: Lessons from the Living Planet Index
Dr. Chris Mortensen delves into the importance of wildlife and animal conservation by discussing this year's Living Planet Index. He recounts a story about Allan Savory's transformation in understanding the role of elephants in ecosystems, illustrating the complexities of conservation. The podcast also highlights the alarming decline in global wildlife populations over the past 50 years, emphasizing the loss of biomass and its impact on biodiversity. Chris stresses the need for global and local actions, from making sustainable food choices to advocating for stronger environmental policies, in order to address the ongoing environmental crisis. Living Planet Index can be accessed HERE Allan Savory's Ted Talk can be accessed HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update 01:03 The Story of Alan Savory and Elephant Conservation 05:31 The Impact of Elephant Population Decline 09:31 The Living Planet Index and Global Biodiversity 21:33 Regional Biodiversity Losses and Conservation Efforts 30:29 Ecosystem Diversity and Predator-Prey Relationships 31:25 The Yellowstone Wolf Reintroduction 34:03 Global Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health 35:22 Tipping Points and Climate Change 41:00 Conservation Success Stories 42:06 Sustainable Choices and Individual Actions 45:41 The Role of Food Systems in Environmental Impact 49:06 Energy and Climate Action 50:48 Call to Action and Optimism for the Future Image art is of the extinct Dodo ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30 Loka 202458min

Sea Snakes Surprise
Sea snakes while highly venomous, are rather docile living in our oceans. When we first released this in 2020, we learned so many amazing facts about the history of this species and just how they survive, and even thrive, in the ocean. Some species of sea snakes are critically endangered, and we need to know more about them to help save them. You can learn more about sea snakes on our website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28 Loka 20241h 13min

Fools Paradise (lost?) Filmmaker Alexandra Lexton
Chris interviews filmmaker Alexandra Lexton about her latest film, 'Fool's Paradise Lost,' which highlights the therapeutic benefits and profound beauty of nature. They discuss how Alexandra's upbringing in Northern California and personal challenges inspired her film, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the natural world for emotional and psychological well-being. The conversation explores the science behind nature's healing effects, featuring influential figures like John Francis and Florence Williams. Alexandra talks about the importance of environmental stewardship, conscious consumerism, and how filmmakers can influence public awareness without doom and gloom. She also shares her experiences with self-financing, cinematography, and participation in the La Femme film festival. Additionally, Alexandra touches on her earlier documentary, 'The Lure of This Land,' and future projects, showcasing her dedication to innovative storytelling and environmental advocacy. You can learn more about the film and view the trailer HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:03 Alexandra Lexton's Filmmaking Journey 05:05 Nature's Influence on Alexandra 09:37 The Inspiration Behind the Film 13:34 John Francis: A Silent Advocate for Nature 17:25 Florence Williams and the Healing Power of Nature 20:15 Rediscovering Nature During COVID 21:30 The Importance of Connecting with Nature 23:33 Challenges in Filmmaking 25:33 The Art of Cinematography 27:15 Favorite Filming Locations 29:15 Raising Environmental Awareness 32:07 Personal Actions for Environmental Impact 35:37 Future Projects and Final Thoughts ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
23 Loka 202443min

Mystique of Komodo Dragons
On this throwback Monday, we dive deep into the fascinating world of Komodo dragons, the largest living lizards on Earth. Join us as we explore the rich history of these ancient reptiles, tracing their evolution and presence on the Indonesian islands. We'll discuss the Komodo dragon’s unique physiology, including their venomous bite, powerful jaws, and remarkable senses that make them apex predators. You'll learn about their diet, from scavenging on carrion to hunting large prey like deer and wild boar. We’ll also explore how these incredible creatures survive in harsh, isolated environments and how they’ve adapted to thrive on remote islands. Importantly, we’ll address the current state of Komodo dragon conservation, the challenges they face, and what’s being done to protect these remarkable giants from the threats of habitat loss and climate change. This episode is an insightful journey into the lives of these legendary dragons, highlighting their ecological importance and the urgent need for their conservation. Tune in for a wild adventure with the kings of the reptile world. Show notes HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
21 Loka 20241h 12min

The Climate Crisis: Origins of Science Denial & Our Future
Dr. Chris Mortensen explores the multifaceted climate crisis, from increasing natural disasters to the politicization of climate science. Chris explains his rigorous academic journey, illustrating the dedication required to produce reliable scientific data. The episode addresses the roots of climate change denial, drawing parallels with misinformation tactics of the tobacco industry. Discussions include the consensus on human-caused climate change, debunked myths, and the severe consequences of global warming, such as rising sea levels, heatwaves, and endangered wildlife. Emphasizing trust in science and the importance of sustainable consumer choices, the host concludes with an urgent call to action for voting and collective efforts to combat climate change. NASA Website on Climate Change HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Special Request 00:09 The Climate Crisis: An Overview 01:13 The Path to Becoming a Scientist 02:02 Academic Journey and Research 05:07 The Role and Challenges of Scientists 16:56 Climate Change and Recent Hurricanes 21:41 Political Influence on Climate Science 24:34 Origins of Climate Science Denial 25:35 The Tobacco Industry's Influence 27:52 The Rise of Junk Science 29:22 The Fossil Fuel Industry's Tactics 31:34 Climate Change in 2024: A Grim Reality 32:42 Scientific Consensus on Climate Change 36:58 Public Opinion and Political Divide 41:46 The Dire Consequences of Inaction 49:16 Call to Action: What We Can Do ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
16 Loka 202454min

Pygmy Hippo: Moo Deng's Origins
Moo Deng, the baby Pygmy Hippopotamus was born in 2024 and became a world-wide sensation. This birth is critical to their species!! With so few numbers, each Pygmy Hippo born under human care is a lifeline to their wild counterparts. This is because sadly, with as few as 2000 Pygmy Hippos left in the world, we are losing one of natures often forgotten large herbivores. Though one tenth the size of their larger cousins the Common Hippopotamus, the Pygmy Hippo is no small runt. Weighing in as much as 600 lbs. (275 kg), they are still a force to be reckoned with. Yet, this shy and elusive herbivore is suffering and slipping towards extinction. Thankfully, these West African natives are a focus for many conservation efforts and their story is one to be told. By telling their story, all of us can bring awareness to these special animals and do all we can to help save them. Learn more about Pygmy Hippos on our website HERE Moo Deng was born at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand and their Facebook page is HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation. Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
14 Loka 20241h 9min