Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien (NatureServe)

The first guest of Conservation Conversations is Dr. Thomas Lovejoy, a Senior Fellow at the United Nations Foundation and who is often called “the Godfather of Biodiversity” for introducing the term biological diversity to the scientific community in the year 1980. From the amazing biodiversity of the Amazon, to the connection between the environment and social movements, Sean and Tom cover a wide variety of topics in this first interview.

During this new episode of Conservation Conversations Sean speaks with Wes Knapp, a mountains botanists and ecologist with the NC Natural Heritage Program, and Anne Frances, NatureServe's Chief Botanist, about a new report that finds plants are going extinct faster than we realized. Listen as they share the challenges to assessing the extinction status of rare plants across jurisdictional lines, and how conservation can prevent more extinctions in the future.

In this episode, Sean speaks with Dawn Wright, Chief Scientist at Esri, about our landmark collaboration on the Map of Biodiversity Importance and the important role of open data for scientific advancement. Tune in to learn about Dr. Wright’s professional journey from deep sea exploration to her leading role on the forefront of GIS innovation, and how biodiversity conservation falls into Esri’s vision for the future.

Learn more about the Map of Biodiversity Importance: https://habitatsuitabilitymodeling-natureserve.hub.arcgis.com/pages/the-map-of-biodiversity-importance

In our latest episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with an old friend—Jon Paul Rodríguez, Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. Listen as they discuss how red listing helps us understand the impacts of our actions on biodiversity, the relationship between the environment and human health in the context of the pandemic, and the power of optimism in the conservation field.

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with Ellen Shultzabarger, State Forester and Director of the PA Bureau of Forestry. Listen as they discuss Ellen's history in the NatureServe Network and becoming Pennsylvania's first female state forester, and how environmental review tools help to balance the diverse resource needs of businesses while creating positive outcomes for biodiversity.

In the latest episode of Conservation Conversations, listen as Sean sits down with Annie Novak, an author, educator, and conservationist who's cultivated her passions into a gratifying and diverse career. Hear about Annie's journey from academia to rooftop farming in New York City, and learn how interested citizens can contribute to science and why “following your bliss" is a guiding motto for life and work.

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean chats with U.S. Congressman Don Beyer, Representative of Virginia's 8th district. Listen in on this candid conversation about policies past and present regarding wildlife corridors, climate change, and the 30x30 initiative. Don also shares stories from the Appalachian Trail.

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with Saharah Moon Chapotin, Executive Director of the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C. Learn how botanic gardens support research and conservation both in the wild and in captivity, how plants are already being affected by climate change, and the future of agriculture.

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with Andrea Wulf, an award–winning author of six acclaimed books, including the New York Times best sellers ‘Founding Gardeners’ and ‘The Invention of Nature.’ Listen as they discuss the adventures of Alexander von Humboldt, tips for effective science storytelling, and the NatureServe Network Van Tour!

In honor of invasive species awareness week, Sean speaks with Carrie Brown-Lima, Director of the New York Invasive Species Research Institute at Cornell University. Tune in and learn why invasive species are among the leading threats to native wildlife and how citizen scientists are helping to solve the problem.

Michelle Nijhuis, author of Beloved Beasts: Fighting for Life in an Age of Extinction, joins Sean in a conversation about the origins of conservation, climate change, and the many motivations for protecting nature. Listen and learn about the complex history of species conservation, the challenges we face today, and the interconnected solutions for our future.

In this first episode of the new season of Conservation Conversations, Sean sits down with author and wildlife biologist Doug Chadwick to talk about the future of biodiversity conservation. Listen as Doug recounts his adventures with National Geographic, explains the need for connectedness between public lands, and shares what it means to be four-fifths a grizzly.

In this timely episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean speaks with Thomas Brooks, Chief Scientist of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) ahead of the IUCN World Conservation Congress taking place September 3rd to September 11th in Marseille. Find out who will be participating and what major topics will be covered at the conference, and learn about how NatureServe and the IUCN collaborate on the Red Lists for Species and Ecosystems. Plus, Tom reflects on his days as Chief Scientist of NatureServe and some of the major global initiatives that NatureServe is a part of, including Biodiversity Indicators and 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.

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.

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. 

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 and following NatureServe on social media. Thank you, and on behalf of NatureServe, have a very happy New Year. 

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.

With the Biodiversity Without Boundaries 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, 'Beloved Beasts: Fighting for Life in an Age of Extinction', 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.

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.

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.

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 face extinction, and how we can save them before it's too late.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, 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.

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 and humans. James, also a professional wildlife photographer, shares the philosophy behind his new book showcasing his work, Among the Birds, I am Human. 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.

In December 2022, the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (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.

With 2022 wrapped up, we’re bringing you a special episode of Conservation Conversations 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.

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 Biodiversity in Focus: United States Edition report mean for the future of conservation. Plus, Sean and Regan get into why data is so important to making informed decisions.

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 Conservation Conversations to talk about the science happening at museums.

On this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, 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.

You can learn more about Ehrlich's career in his new memoir, Life: A Journey through Science and Politics.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of NatureServe or the entities that the speaker represents. 

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!  

In this month's episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean is joined by wildlife photographer, filmmaker, and author Dudley Edmondson, whose most recent release is The Black & Brown Faces in America’s Wild Places. 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.

In this enlightening episode of Conservation Conversations, Sean O'Brien speaks 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.

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." 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

In the latest episode of Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien, 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

In this episode of Conservation Conversations, 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. Plus, discover how a love story ignited Dr. Frick's passion for these remarkable winged mammals.

In the latest episode of Conservation Conversations, 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 and TikTok.

In the year-end special episode of Conservation Conversations, 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 Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien, visit our website or follow us on your favorite podcast app.

Join Sean O'Brien in this month's Conservation Conversations 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.

Join Sean O'Brien on Conservation Conversations 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.

In this special episode of Conservation Conversations, 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!

In this final episode of Conservation Conversations, recorded live from the Biodiversity Without Boundaries conference, we hear from passionate individuals within the NatureServe Network about what inspired them at the event. From discussions on leveraging technology for efficient biodiversity data collection to the importance of engaging new audiences in conservation efforts, our guests share their insights and hopes for the future. We'd also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors of the BWB conference whose support made this event possible. As we bid farewell to Conservation Conversations, we want to assure our listeners that the NatureServe Network will continue its vital work. Stay connected with us through our newsletter and social media to join us in safeguarding our planet's biodiversity for generations to come.