Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien

NatureServe

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Join Sean O’Brien, President and CEO of NatureServe, as he discusses emerging technologies, regional and global trends in biodiversity, and the future for life on Earth with some of the world’s leading experts in conservation. Each episode, released on a monthly basis, will feature an exclusive interview with scientists that’s accessible for listeners of any background.

For nearly 50 years, NatureServe has been the authoritative source for biodiversity data throughout the Western Hemisphere. NatureServe works with 100+ network organizations and 1,000+ conservation scientists to collect, analyze, and deliver biodiversity information, providing comprehensive spatial data to meet both regulatory and conservation needs.

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44 episodes

S4 Ep8: Unveiling NatureServe Explorer Pro with Anne Bowser & Lori Scott

* In this special episode of , NatureServe introduces its latest breakthrough: NatureServe Explorer Pro, a powerful tool designed to enhance accessibility to vital biodiversity data. Join us as Anne Bowser, Interim President and Executive VP for Programs, and Lori Scott, Interim CEO and Chief Information Officer, delve into the functionalities of this innovative application. Discover how NatureServe Explorer Pro builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, NatureServe Explorer, while also spearheading efforts to promote open data initiatives across Canada and the United States. Plus, explore the potential applications of artificial intelligence in biodiversity conservation, offering a glimpse into the future of conservation efforts. Learn more about NatureServe Explorer Pro by going to https://explorer.natureserve.org/pro/Welcome, and create your account for free!

20m
Mar 27
S4 Ep7: Collin Spriggs and Brandon Gibson: Cultivating Native Wisdom

* Join Sean O'Brien on as he sits down with Collin Spriggs and Brandon Gibson from the Euchee Butterfly Farm and Tribal Alliance for Pollinators. Learn how they're cultivating pollinator-friendly plants native to Oklahoma, preserving cultural traditions, and bridging traditional knowledge with modern science. Plus, discover the hidden beauty and biodiversity of their so-called 'flyover' home state of Oklahoma.

38m
Feb 19
S4 Ep6: James Hung: The Buzz on Native Pollinators

* Join Sean O'Brien in this month's episode featuring Dr. James Hung, a biologist with the Oklahoma Biological Survey and Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma. Delve into the fascinating and diverse world of pollinating insects and learn about some of the challenges facing our native pollinators. Plus, learn about the impact of community science and how it feeds into the NatureServe Network.

39m
Jan 23
S4 Ep5: Highlights from 2023

* In the year-end special episode of , host Sean O’Brien reflects on the impactful discussions with scientists and conservationists dedicated to preserving biodiversity. The episode highlights key themes such as the interconnectedness of all species, the importance of inclusivity in conservation efforts, the role of legislation in supporting biodiversity, and the significance of biodiversity data. With inspiring insights from guests like Dr. Winifred Frick, Rachael Tancock, Dudley Edmondson, and others, the podcast emphasizes the urgency of addressing the biodiversity crisis while offering hope and actionable solutions for the future. To listen to all episodes of visit our website https://www.natureserve.org/conservation-conversations or follow us on your favorite podcast app.

22m
Dec 18, 2023
S4 Ep4: Rachael Tancock: Bridging the Natural and Digital Worlds

* In the latest episode of , join host Sean O'Brien as he speaks with Rachael Tancock, a naturalist, nature communicator, and the face behind 'The Nature Educator.' Growing up on Vancouver Island, Rachael was fascinated by the natural world around her. Find out how she turned her curious mind and love of nature into a social platform that inspires thousands around the globe to learn about the world around them and become better stewards of the planet. You can find Rachael as The Nature Educator on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenatureeducator/ and TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenatureeducator.

40m
Nov 21, 2023
S4 Ep3: Winifred Frick: Illuminating the Secrets of Bats

* In this episode of , join host Sean O'Brien and guest Dr. Winifred Frick, Chief Scientist at Bat Conservation International, as they unveil the fascinating world of bats. Dr. Frick dispels common myths about these often misunderstood creatures, delves into their diverse adaptations and ecological importance, and highlights the urgent need for bat conservation efforts, as revealed in BCI's recent report on the precarious status of North American bat species https://www.batcon.org/press/2023-north-american-state-of-the-bats-report/. Plus, discover how a love story ignited Dr. Frick's passion for these remarkable winged mammals.

45m
Oct 23, 2023
S4 Ep2: Caroline Van Hemert: Art, Science, and Adventure

* In the latest episode of , Caroline Van Hemert takes us on a captivating journey. Her recent book, "The Sun is a Compass," recounts her extraordinary 4,000-mile human-powered expedition from the Pacific Rainforest to the Arctic Coast. As an ornithologist by training and lifelong Alaskan resident, Caroline draws inspiration from the migratory wildlife she meets along the way. Caroline's story emphasizes the power of art and science in maintaining hope amid irreversible environmental changes. She also provides a glimpse of her next adventure—an Arctic voyage by sailboat with her family. You can find Caroline's book at most major book retailers, or at her website: https://www.carolinevanhemert.com/book You can find the full catalogue of Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien at NatureServe's website: https://www.natureserve.org/conservation-conversations

37m
Sep 25, 2023
S4 Ep1: Lowell Baier: Codex of the Endangered Species Act

* In the first episode of Season 4 of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with Lowell Baier, conservationist, historian, attorney, and author of the new book "The Codex of the Endangered Species Act https://www.amazon.com/Codex-Endangered-Species-Act-First-ebook/dp/B0C4GCX8NP/." They delve into the 50-year journey of the Endangered Species Act, its origins, challenges, and its role in countering the ongoing mass extinction crisis. Lowell's deep insights and anecdotes offer a rich exploration of the past, present, and future of conservation. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! Plus, find Lowell's latest book and other information on his work at his website: www.lowellebaier.com https://lowellebaier.com/

36m
Aug 28, 2023
S3 Ep12: Catherine Febria: Connecting Land, Water, and People

* In this enlightening episode of , Sean O'Brien engages in a profound discussion with Dr. Catherine Febria, Canada Research Chair and Assistant Professor in Freshwater Restoration and Ecology at the University of Windsor. Dr. Febria demonstrates through her own research experience the value of conducting ethical and inclusive science to achieve collective societal benefits. Plus, find out what it means to decolonize science and how a river in New Zealand became a person.

37m
Jul 26, 2023
S3 Ep11: Dudley Edmondson: Finding Freedom in Wilderness

* In this month's episode of , Sean is joined by wildlife photographer, filmmaker, and author Dudley Edmondson, whose most recent release is s https://dudleyedmondson.com/books/. In this deeply moving conversation, they explore the freedom that nature provides for people and how we can make our public spaces accommodate different cultural values. Plus, Dudley shares his hopes for the future generation of wildlife and conservation professionals.

34m
Jun 27, 2023
S3 Ep10: Priya Nanjappa: Bringing People & Parks Together

* Join Sean O'Brien in this thought-provoking Conservation Conversations episode as he is joined by Priya Nanjappa, Vice President for Conservation Programs at the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). The conversation explores the impacts of colonialism on public spaces and the movement to make people feel safe in outdoor environments once again. They also discuss the collaborative work between the NPCA and NatureServe to identify important areas for safeguarding biodiversity and providing refuge from climate change. Plus, Priya shares how she grew to love frogs and toads and become a herpetologist!  

36m
May 29, 2023
S3 Ep9: Paul Ehrlich

* On this month's episode of , Sean was joined by the legendary author and scientist Paul Ehrlich, known for his work in biology and population dynamics. In their discussion, Ehrlich reflects on changes in science and conservation over the last half-century, the vital importance of science communication, and society's ability to rapidly change at pivotal moments. Plus, hear how butterflies captured Ehrlich's early interest in biology.

29m
Apr 24, 2023
S3 Ep8: Kirk Johnson: What Natural History Tells Us About Our Future

* Natural history museums tell the story of our planet and provide lessons for the future. No one knows this better than Kirk Johnson, Sant Director of the National Museum of Natural History, who joined Sean for this month's episode of to talk about the science happening at museums.

43m
Mar 28, 2023
S3 Ep7: Regan Smyth: Behind the making of the Biodiversity in Focus report

* In February of 2023, NatureServe released a brand new analysis finding that over one-third of biodiversity is at risk of extinction. Regan Smyth, NatureServe's Vice President for Data and Methods, joined Sean on the podcast this month to talk about what the results of the new https://www.natureserve.org/bif report mean for the future of conservation. Plus, Sean and Regan get into why data is so important to making informed decisions.

26m
Feb 28, 2023
S3 Ep6: 2022 Highlights: Inspiration and Inclusion in Conservation

* With 2022 wrapped up, we’re bringing you a special episode of this month—a compilation of some of the most thought-provoking moments from our episodes last year. Listen as scientists and leaders in conservation share what inspires them, the importance of their work, and what the future of biodiversity looks like. We hope this episode inspires you the same way these individuals have inspired us.

30m
Jan 31, 2023
S3 Ep5: Mike Gill: NatureServe at COP 15

* In December 2022, the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity https://www.unep.org/events/conference/un-biodiversity-conference-cop-15 (COP) reached a historic agreement to protect a third of the planet by 2030 to safeguard biodiversity. In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with NatureServe's Biodiversity Indicators Program Director Mike Gill about the conference: what was discussed, what agreement was made, and what role NatureServe will play. Listen to find out what the next ten years of biodiversity conservation will look like on a global and national scale.

30m
Dec 28, 2022
S3 Ep4: James Evans: We All Belong in Nature

* In this compelling episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with James Evans, Executive Director of Companions and Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), a BIPOC-led organization that addresses animal welfare through the well-being of both animals humans. James, also a professional wildlife photographer, shares the philosophy behind his new book showcasing his work, . Learn how organizations like CARE are reframing how we identify and solve problems within communities and how choice at the individual level can make a world of differences.

40m
Nov 29, 2022
S3 Ep3: Margaret O'Gorman: Insights on Corporate Conservation

* In this episode of , Sean sits down with Margaret O'Gorman, President of the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC), which supports companies in developing and achieving goals around protecting biodiversity. During the conversation, Sean and Margaret discuss the recent framing shift from environmental health and safety to the environmental, social, and governance, tackle the issue of 'greenwashing,' and share predictions for the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (COP 15). Sean and Margaret also bond over their love of New Jersey pine barrens.

33m
Oct 26, 2022
S3 Ep2: Greg Mueller: The Fantastic World of Fungi

* In this episode of Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien, Sean is joined by Dr. Greg Mueller, Chief Scientist and Negaunee Vice President of Science for the Chicago Botanic Garden. Greg studies the ecology and conservation of mushrooms and other macrofungi. Today, he focuses on raising awareness about the importance of fungi in our natural communities. Listen to learn why we need fungi, how trees use an underground network to communicate, and how mycology inspires science fiction writing.

31m
Sep 20, 2022
S2 Ep13: Murphy Westwood: Assessing the Trees of the U.S.

* In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with Dr. Murphy Westwood, Vice President of Science and Conservation at the Morton Arboretum, which recently collaborated with NatureServe and other organizations to create a comprehensive assessment of trees in the United States. Find out how many trees in the U.S. are threatened with extinction, what really makes a tree a tree, and how botanic gardens inspire and educate 500 million people around the world each year.

32m
Aug 24, 2022
S2 Ep12: Justin Cummings: Uniting Science and Policy for Positive Change

* In this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with Justin Cummings, the founding director of the UCSC Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program and former mayor of the City of Santa Cruz. Justin shares how he united his background in science and policy to create positive change for his home, and how citizens of any background can get involved in conservation.

25m
Jun 15, 2022
S2 Ep11: Neil Cox and Bruce Young: The First Global Reptile Assessment

* In this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean is joined by the lead authors of the first comprehensive assessment of the world's reptiles. Neil Cox is the manager of the Biodiversity Assessment Unit, a joint effort of IUCN and Conservation International, and Bruce Young is Chief Zoologist and Senior Conservation Scientist at NatureServe. Find out why everyone should care that one-fifth of the world's reptile species that face extinction, and how we can save them before it's too late.

36m
May 24, 2022
S2 Ep10: Razan Al Mubarak: Global Cooperation for Conserving Nature

* In this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean is joined by Razan Al Mubarak, President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Razan shares how the IUCN leverages its constituency of governments, civil organizations, and indigenous communities to guide global policy change. The conversation also touches on Razan's personal experience in conservation as a woman from the UAE, and what diversity and authentic inclusivity bring to the field.

35m
Apr 21, 2022
S2 Ep9: Healy Hamilton: Pin-pointing Areas of Conservation Priority

* In this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean is joined by NatureServe's own Chief Scientist, Dr. Healy Hamilton, to talk about the Map of Biodiversity Importance. Learn about what the map is, how it will help the United States to protect 30% of land and waters by 2030, and why we should care about biodiversity at all. Plus, Healy shares her own career journey and makes the case that seahorses are some of the most charismatic species on the planet. * * Thank you to the Esri, Microsoft, The Nature Conservancy, the natural heritage programs in Pennsylvania, New York, and Virginia, and the entire NatureServe Network for making this work possible.

24m
Mar 22, 2022
S2 Ep8: Michelle Nijhuis: Beloved Beasts (Update & Re-release)

* With the Biodiversity Without Boundaries conference https://www.natureserve.org/events/biodiversity-without-boundaries-2022-conference right around the corner, NatureServe invited celebrated author and journalist Michelle Nijhuis back to the Conservation Conversations podcast to talk about her keynote speech for the upcoming conference, her book, ' https://michellenijhuis.com/beloved-beasts', and what she's working on next. Then, we revisit Michelle's first episode on the podcast to learn about the complex history of species conservation, the challenges we face today, and the interconnected solutions for our future.

44m
Feb 23, 2022
S2 Ep7: Scott Loarie: Creating Connections and Conservation Impact with iNaturalist

* In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with Scott Loarie, Co-Director of iNaturalist, a popular nature app that allows users to identify the plants and animals around them. Learn how iNaturalist is connecting over a million scientists, naturalists, and enthusiasts from across the globe, and how ordinary people can help turn data into conservation decisions.

29m
Jan 26, 2022
S2 Ep6: Looking Back on the First Year of the NatureServe Network Van Tour

* This past spring, NatureServe kicked off the “NatureServe Network Van Tour”, an expedition highlighting how we sustain biodiversity through technology, collaborative science, and local expertise. Sean has been journeying across the US and Canada in a converted camper van, named the Van Humboldt in honor of naturalist and explorer Alexander von Humboldt.   * For this special, end-of-year episode of Conservation Conversations, we’re kicking the Van Humboldt into reverse gear and hearing from several members of the NatureServe Natural Heritage Network who joined Sean for a stop along the Van Tour. Hear about recent field adventures in Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest, rare species in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, biodiversity restoration projects in Pennsylvania, and our special partnership with NatureServe Canada.   * The Van Humboldt still has a lot more natural heritage to explore in 2022. We invite you to join the ride by checking out www.natureserve.org/VanTour http://www.natureserve.org/VanTour and following NatureServe on social media. Thank you, and on behalf of NatureServe, have a very happy New Year. 

30m
Dec 27, 2021
S2 Ep5: Holiday Special

* In this special episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean reflects on the previous episodes and shares some of the moments that intrigued, surprised, and inspired him and the listeners. Hear from scientists, authors, and conservation leaders about their vital work, and learn about the impacts of the global climate crisis, the public health ramifications of biodiversity loss, threats to worldwide food systems, and more. * We’re thankful for the conversations we had with all the guests on the show who inspire us by advancing positive environmental change. We hope these clips will inspire you, too. 

25m
Nov 24, 2021
4: Dave Goulson: Averting the Insect Apocalypse

* The bulk of species on earth are insects; yet, scientists are noticing that insects are dying off at an alarming rate. In this episode of Conservation Conversations, author and professor of biology at the University of Sussex Dave Goulson takes us through his latest book, "Silent Earth: Averting the Insect Apocalypse". Listen as he and Sean discuss the critical ecosystem services that insects provide, why they are disappearing and what we can do to help, and why all insects, from bees to earwigs, deserve our respect.

29m
Oct 25, 2021
3: Peter Soroye: Identifying Canada's Key Biodiversity Areas

* In the latest episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with scientist and conservation advocate Peter Soroye. Listen as Peter and Sean swap origin stories, discuss the value of Key Biodiversity Areas, and how citizen science can inspire people to get outside more. Together, they chat about pollinators and why diversity in the field of biodiversity conservation helps to foster creative solutions for our future.

28m
Sep 27, 2021