In this episode, we are joined by Naude Dreyer, co-founder of Ocean Conservation Namibia, whose high-stakes seal rescues have captured global attention. From Namibia’s Walvis Bay, Naude and his small team are fighting the rising tide of ocean plastic and ghost fishing gear—threats that silently strangle thousands of marine animals each year.

But there’s a new twist to the challenge: rabies is emerging in Southern Africa’s seal population, raising concerns for both animal and human health. Naude shares how they navigate this strange and little-understood development out in the field.

We also explore the extreme physical fitness and mental toughness required to carry out these rescues - sprinting across difficult terrain, handling panicked 300-pound animals, and staying calm in unpredictable, often dangerous conditions.

To learn more about Ocean Conservation Namibia, visit ocnamibia.org and follow their rescue work on Instagram @oceannamibia.

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of National Park Rescue with Executive Director of Conservation, Dr. Niall McCann — a National Geographic Explorer, Conservation Biologist and Wildlife TV presenter (BBC, Nat Geo Wild and Discovery Channel).

Now, at the helm of National Park Rescue, Niall is tackling the urgent task of saving Africa’s neglected national parks from the brink of collapse. In this episode, we spotlight one of their most ambitious missions: Operation CK in Chizarira National Park, Zimbabwe. Once on the verge of becoming an empty wilderness, ravaged by poaching and neglect, Chizarira is now seeing signs of hope. Elephant poaching indicators are reportedly down by more than 90%, and momentum is building toward long-term recovery.

Niall offers an unfiltered look into the challenges of conservation in politically and logistically complex landscapes — from corruption and human-wildlife conflict to the powerful impact of restoring law enforcement and trust on the ground.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about what it really takes to turn around a dying park, the importance of protecting iconic species like elephants, rhinos, and lions, and the gritty, hopeful reality of conservation in action.

To learn more about National Park Rescue, visit www.nationalparkrescue.org and follow their work on Instagram at @nationalparkrescue.

In this episode, we’re stepping into the world of Rhino Man, an award-winning documentary that brings us face-to-face with the dangerous realities of rhino conservation in South Africa. Host Amy Turner is joined by three extraordinary guests: John Jurko II, Matt Lindenberg, and Leitah Mkhabela, all of whom are central to this powerful film that celebrates the courage of rangers and highlights the heartbreaking story of Anton Mzimba, the revered Head of Ranger Services at Timbavati, who was killed just as the film was nearing completion.

John Jurko and Matt Lindenberg, both co-directors and co-producers of Rhino Man, share their experiences and the inspiration behind the film. They honour the rangers who stand on the frontlines of wildlife protection, showcasing their bravery and dedication. Leitah Mkhambela, an award-winning member of the Black Mambas anti-poaching unit and cousin of Anton Mzimba, provides a deeply personal insight into the sacrifices and resilience of rangers across Africa, enriching the conversation with her unique perspective.

Listen in for an unforgettable conversation about the making of the film, the life and legacy of Anton Mzimba, and the extreme challenges faced by rangers dedicated to protecting Africa’s wildlife, highlighting their courage and commitment in the fight against poaching.

To support the rangers and learn more about Rhino Man, visit all the links here: links.rhinomanthemovie.org. To learn more about the Black Mambas anti-poaching unit, visit www.blackmambas.org and follow them on Instagram at @theblackmambas and you can visit Global Conservation Core via www.globalconservationcorps.org.