Conservation Conversations with Sean O'Brien

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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.