Resilience Gone Wild (WinWinWin Mindset)

This episode is Part 2 of our special Shark Week celebration on Resilience Gone Wild. Host Jessica Morgenthal talks with Francesca Page — marine conservationist, underwater photographer, and visual storyteller — about her inspiring journey from fearing the ocean to becoming one of its most passionate defenders. Francesca explores how art and storytelling can shift public perceptions about sharks, highlight the impact of bycatch, and drive community action for healthier oceans. She also shares her groundbreaking 200 Sharks initiative and the importance of finding your unique way to contribute to our planet’s wellbeing.Key Takeaways* Art is a universal language that helps connect people to conservation.* Overcoming fear can open doors to deep, meaningful work.* Sharks are essential for ocean health and biodiversity.* Bycatch remains a major threat to marine life.* Storytelling and visual art can make complex issues relatable.* Community involvement is key to sustainable conservation.* Francesca’s 200 Sharks project brings awareness to sharks’ vital role.* Compassion and understanding strengthen conservation work.* Everyone has unique skills to contribute to protecting the planet.* Turning your passion into action can make real change.Sound Bites* “Art is this universal language.”* “Fear was all in the mind.”* “Compassion is key in conservation.”Resources Mentioned:Francesca Page LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-page-056580317/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-page-056580317/)Francesca Page Website: https://www.francescapageart.com/ (https://www.francescapageart.com/)Francesca Page YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@francescapageart (https://www.youtube.com/@francescapageart)Award Winning Photo: https://www.francescapageart.com/photography?pgid=m09s3850-fe3ff6c7-d262-4510-9dfe-b84d33d5515c (https://www.francescapageart.com/photography?pgid=m09s3850-fe3ff6c7-d262-4510-9dfe-b84d33d5515c)Brian Skerry, Francesca’s Mentor: https://brianskerry.com/ (https://brianskerry.com/)Francesa Page Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francescaapage?igsh=Zzl5cTN2dmNpYnox (https://www.instagram.com/francescaapage?igsh=Zzl5cTN2dmNpYnox)* "I used to be scared of the ocean..." https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGvvUdit_rH/?igsh=eHN4aHg0OGp5Y3A1 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGvvUdit_rH/?igsh=eHN4aHg0OGp5Y3A1)* 200 Sharks Project:Whale Sharks https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGLud-TN3i0/?igsh=MXRpbHAxbHQ4b3cxNA== (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGLud-TN3i0/?igsh=MXRpbHAxbHQ4b3cxNA==)Thresher Sharks https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCzW5EVtXYt/?igsh=cWd6MWJiZWQyODU5 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCzW5EVtXYt/?igsh=cWd6MWJiZWQyODU5)Smoothnosed Wedgefish https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGvvUdit_rH/?igsh=eHN4aHg0OGp5Y3A1 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGvvUdit_rH/?igsh=eHN4aHg0OGp5Y3A1)Connect With UsSubscribe to Resilience Gone Wild wherever you listen to podcasts, and let’s grow stronger together: https://pod.link/J4yd77 (https://pod.link/J4yd77)Connect with your host Jessica Morgenthal: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])Connect with your producer Kai M Sorensen: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])Visit us online:

In this very special SHARK WEEK episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal dives deep with renowned shark scientist David Ebert, exploring how sharks have been misunderstood for decades, espec...

In this episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal speaks with fungi enthusiast and circular economy advocate Marc Violo about the hidden potential of fungi across multiple sectors. From agriculture and pest control to sustainable materials and healthcare, Marc unpacks the extraordinary power of fungi and the vital role of mycelium networks in plant communication. He shares his personal journey into mycology in China, India and across the globe and emphasizes how storytelling can shift cultural attitudes and drive innovation in fungal science. This conversation explores the circular economy as a blueprint for sustainable living, the need for greater conservation efforts, and how policy must evolve to support fungal research. If you’ve ever been curious about the future of mushrooms beyond the dinner plate, this episode is for you.Takeaways:* Fungi are an entirely separate biological kingdom from plants, with immense environmental value.* Fungi and flora are highly dependent on each other* The circular economy promotes designing systems and products with sustainability and reusability in mind.* Fungi are powerful allies in agriculture, offering natural solutions for pest management.* Mycelium networks connect plants and aid in ecological communication and nutrient sharing.* Fungi contain bioactive compounds with promising applications in healthcare and medicine.* Cultural narratives shape how we understand and utilize fungi—storytelling can break barriers.* Conservation policies must expand to protect fungal biodiversity and ecosystem contributions.* Innovation in fungal materials could reshape packaging, fashion, and building industries.Sound Bites:* "Fungi are a separate kingdom from plants."* "Mycelium networks help plants communicate and thrive."* "Fungi play a crucial role in agriculture and sustainability."* "The future of fungi lies in innovation and circular design."* "Storytelling helps people connect with the fungal world."Resources & Links:* Marc Violo LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcviolo/)* MycoStories LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mycostories/posts/?feedView=all (https://www.linkedin.com/company/mycostories/posts/?feedView=all)* MycoStories website: Mushroom, Mycelium, Fungi Innovation | MycoStories (https://www.mycostories.com/)* MycoStories showcases businesses and entrepreneurs in the field of fungi, mushrooms and mycelium to address the ... (https://www.mycostories.com/)* https://www.spun.earth/ (https://www.spun.earth/)* The Telepathy Tapes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-telepathy-tapes/id1766382649)* Fungi, Technology, and Global Exploration: The Marc Viola Journey (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP4RNNc9hok)* MycoStories Newsletter: https://mycostories.substack.com/ (https://mycostories.substack.com/)* MycoStories Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mycostories/?hl=en (https://www.instagram.com/mycostories/?hl=en)* Tocco Interview with Marc Violo: Mycelium magic, as told by Mycostories | tocco (https://tocco.earth/article/mycelium-as-material-mycostories/)* Dive into the transformative potential of mycelium as a groundbreaking material through the lens of MycoStories. (https://tocco.earth/article/mycelium-as-material-mycostories/)*

This is Part 2 of our deep dive into the world of Tasmanian devils with Aussie Ark’s Dean Reid. In this follow-up conversation, Dean shares even more insight into breeding programs, marsupial behavior, and the critical role community involvement plays in preserving Australia's unique wildlife. We explore the impact of introduced predators, the power of celebrity influence in raising awareness, and the sustainable management strategies that keep Aussie Ark running. Dean also discusses how understanding animal behavior can foster deeper human-wildlife connections and emphasizes that conservation is a collective responsibility. Whether you're passionate about protecting biodiversity or just curious about Taz, Tasmanian devils or marsupials, this episode is filled with practical wisdom, inspiring stories, and hopeful solutions.Takeaways:* The Tasmanian devil’s name reflects its loud vocalizations and nocturnal habits that scared Europeans into naming them devils.* Breeding programs are vital to restoring devil populations impacted by facial tumor disease and are successfully saving the devils.* Possums, the only North American marsupial, are misunderstood and play key positive roles in local ecosystems.* Aussie Ark serves as a sanctuary for Tasmanian devils and other endangered wildlife.* Dean Reid embraced nature and conservation later in life when he needed a way to literally save him, proving it’s never too late to change your life and make a difference.* Human introduction of non-native species for a narrow goal so often threaten the survival of native flora and fauna and drove devils in mainland Australia to extinction.* Celebrity support has helped raise global awareness for Aussie Ark’s efforts.* Aussie Ark is managed strategically for long-term resilience with a three-year planning cycle and financing.* Every individual—through education, donations, or habitat creation—can help save species.Sound Bites:"Possums are very good breeders and misunderstood contributors to the ecosystem.""You never know what can happen. It's all about working with nature.""Introduced species have changed the game—we're trying to catch up.""Every little bit helps, and the community is a big part of our success."Keywords:Tasmanian devils, wildlife conservation, Aussie Ark, marsupials, breeding programs, endangered species, animal behavior, introduced species, genetic diversity, community involvement, nature education, ecosystem balance, habitat protection, fundraising for conservation, Dean Reid, Aussie Ark, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation tourism, Australian wildlife, biodiversityResources:* Learn more about Aussie Ark (https://www.aussieark.org.au/) and partner Australian reptile Park https://www.reptilepark.com.au/ (https://www.reptilepark.com.au/)* Connect with Dean Reid on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/ranger_dean/ (https://www.instagram.com/ranger_dean/) and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dean.reid.31 (https://www.facebook.com/dean.reid.31)* Tasmanian Devil (https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/tasmanian-devil) (National Geographic Kids)* New York Times:  Video: Tasmanian Devils Born in Australia for First Time in 3,000 Years (https://www.nytimes.com/video/world/australia/100000007785990/tasmanian-devils-australia.html)* ABC News about Tim Faulkner:

In this episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal explores the extraordinary resilience of the Tasmanian devil, one of Australia’s most iconic and misunderstood marsupials. Known for their fierce vocalizations and scavenging habits, Tasmanian devils are also masters of survival. One of their most fascinating adaptations is how they store fat in their thick, muscular tails, an evolutionary strategy that allows them to survive long periods without food by relying on these reserves. Jessica dives into this natural design and what it teaches us about preparing for life’s lean times and the many types of resilience we would benefit from building up. The episode also sheds light on the devastating impact of devil facial tumor disease (DFTD), the power of conservation, and how organizations like Aussie Ark (https://www.aussieark.org.au/) are fighting to protect this resilient species. This is a powerful reflection on what we can learn from wildlife about adaptability, endurance, and the quiet strength of preparing for uncertainty.Takeaways:* Tasmanian devils store fat in their tails, a key survival mechanism during times of food scarcity.* Their tail condition is a visible indicator of overall health and resilience.* The behavior and biology of Tasmanian devils demonstrate how nature prepares for uncertainty.* Human resilience can mirror nature's resilience by building up eight different types of wellness reserves.* Devil facial tumor disease has led to a dramatic decline in wild populations, making conservation efforts critical.* Wildlife conservation relies on public awareness and evolving perceptions of misunderstood species.Keywords:Tasmanian devil, Aussie Ark, resilience, tail fat storage, wildlife conservation, devil facial tumor disease, energy reserves, animal survival strategies, biodiversity, nature adaptation, marsupials, stress response, environmental awareness, sustainability, financial resilience, emotional resilience, occupational resilience, spiritual resilience, physical resilience, social resilience, intellectual resilience, environmental resilienceSound Bites:"Prepare for lean times when the scent of food fades.""Building resilience by building up reserves.""Nature has already mapped out how to survive the hard times.""The Tasmanian devil reminds us that strength is often quiet and steady.""Resilience doesn't need a spotlight."Resources & Further Reading:* Aussie Ark – Tasmanian Devil Conservation (https://www.aussieark.org.au/our-animals/tasmanian-devil/)* National Geographic – Tasmanian Devils (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/tasmanian-devil)* Tasmanian devil whiskers hold the key to protecting these super-scavengers (https://theconversation.com/tasmanian-devil-whiskers-hold-the-key-to-protecting-these-super-scavengers-201468)* From the dingo to the Tasmanian devil - why we should be rewilding carnivores (https://theconversation.com/from-the-dingo-to-the-tasmanian-devil-why-we-should-be-rewilding-carnivores-199879)* Bite of the Tasmanian Devil | National Geographic (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyvPjn2m240)* Welcoming two Tasmanian devils to Auckland! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gZIUH6zLqk)* Looney Tunes | Classic Tasmanian Devil Compilation | Warner Classics (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbWD44i_gQ4)*

In this episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal sits down with registered dietician Elisa to unpack the powerful connection between gut health, biodiversity, and resilience. They explore how the gut biome plays a critical role in immunity, mental health, and overall well-being. The conversation covers everything from the benefits of a fiber-rich, plant-forward diet to the dangers of monocrops, processed foods, and environmental toxins. They also highlight how regenerative farming and mindful nutrition choices contribute to a healthier planet and body. With a practical, compassionate lens, Jessica and Elisa guide listeners toward nutritional diversity, emphasizing progress over perfection and the importance of aligning eating habits with personal purpose and values.Key Takeaways:* A diverse gut microbiome supports immunity, mood, and resilience.* Fiber is essential for a thriving gut biome.* Shifting from dieting to purpose-driven eating leads to sustainable wellness.* Monocrops and processed foods reduce both nutritional and environmental diversity.* Regenerative agriculture enhances soil health and ecosystem resilience.* Plant-forward diets are backed by research for longevity and gut function. It’s about putting more plants in no going for all or nothing. * Small, consistent changes are more impactful than extreme diets.* Gut health can respond to dietary changes in as little as 24. True for healthy and unhealthy changes! * Changing your eating habits is a practice. A lifestyle. Like any other healthy change, it’s about long term commitment and embracing the treats too!* Mindful eating increases enjoyment and improves food relationships.* Embracing imperfection is key to lasting health.Notable Quotes:* "Diversity always leads to resilience."* "Your gut can change within 24 hours."* "It's not about dieting; it's about health."* "Eat the rainbow—not Skittles."* "Crowding in more vegetables is key."* "You have to have an inner sense of purpose."Resources:Elisa's Website: https://green-bites.com/ (https://green-bites.com/)Elisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-bremner-rd/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-bremner-rd/)https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate (https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate)Biggest Little Farm: https://www.biggestlittlefarmmovie.com/ (https://www.biggestlittlefarmmovie.com/)The Guardian: Experts say we need to eat 30 plants a week. This is how I fared (https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2024/apr/04/30-plants-week-gut-health)BBC:  Are you getting your 30 plants a week? Plant points explained (https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/plant_points_explained)Healthline (includes gut and brain health connection): How Does Your Gut Microbiome Impact Your Overall Health? (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-microbiome-and-health#TOC_TITLE_HDR_8)BBC: How gut bacteria are controlling your brain (https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230120-how-gut-bacteria-are-controlling-your-brain)Harvard Health on eating healthy vs taking supplements: Probiotics and prebiotics: what's really important - Harvard Health (https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/are-you-getting-essential-nutrients-from-your-diet)Keywords:gut biome,

In this fascinating episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal speaks with Dr. John Lesku, a leading sleep researcher, about the amazing patterns and processes of sleep in animals of a...

In this episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal explores one of the most fascinating sleep strategies in the natural world—the mucus bubble of the parrotfish. Each night, parrotfish excrete a jelly-like mucus cocoon that envelops their bodies, acting as a protective shield against predators and parasites while they sleep on the ocean floor.Jessica uses this captivating natural behavior to highlight a powerful metaphor for human rest and resilience. Just like parrotfish build a physical barrier to sleep safely, we too can create intentional routines and mental boundaries that shield us from the stressors that disrupt our rest. She shares practical tips to protect your rest from external threats like noise and light, and internal ones like overthinking, anxiety, and emotional overload.This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build better sleep habits, establish emotional safety, and restore their strength through the power of rest.Takeaways* Parrotfish secrete a mucus cocoon each night, which helps them sleep safely by masking their scent from predators and repelling parasites.* Their bubble is reapplied nightly, offering both security and recovery—essential for survival in coral reef ecosystems.* We can mirror this by creating protective sleep environments that reduce interruptions and promote restoration.* Managing internal “sleep predators” like ruminating thoughts, guilt, or stress is as important as addressing external ones.* Relaxation rituals, like journaling or breathing techniques, can be your version of a nightly cocoon.* Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a non-negotiable tool for resilience.* Protecting ocean life like the parrotfish helps us preserve the wisdom nature holds for our own wellbeing.Sound Bites* “Parrotfish don’t just sleep—they bubble-wrap themselves for safety.”* “What’s in your resilience toolkit? For the parrotfish, it’s mucus.”* “Creating a barrier between you and the chaos of the world—that’s resilience.”* “Rest is not weakness—it’s a protective force.”* “Your bedtime routine can be your cocoon.”Resources* Learn more about parrotfish from the Smithsonian: https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/fish/parrotfish-mucus-cocoon (https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/fish/parrotfish-mucus-cocoon)* Parrotfish sleep in mosquito net made of mucus: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/parrotfish-sleep-in-a-mosquito-net-made-of-mucus (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/parrotfish-sleep-in-a-mosquito-net-made-of-mucus)* Mastering Sleep Hygiene: Your Path to Quality Sleep:  https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene (https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene)* Why People Swear by the 'Cocoon' Sleep Hack: 'Best Sleep You'll Ever Get':  https://www.eatthis.com/cocoon-sleep-hack/ (https://www.eatthis.com/cocoon-sleep-hack/)* Coral Restoration Foundation: https://www.coralrestoration.org (https://www.coralrestoration.org/)* National Sleep Foundation: https://www.sleepfoundation.org (https://www.sleepfoundation.org/)* Ocean Conservancy: https://oceanconservancy.org (https://oceanconservancy.org/)Keywordsparrotfish, sleep adaptation, resilience, rest, sleep protection, mucus bubble, ocean life, stress management, relaxation, sleep routine, nature-inspired wellness, sleep hygiene, bedtime ritual, internal sleep predators, emotional resilience, environmental protectionConnect With UsListen Now:

In this inspiring Memorial Day episode of Resilience Gone Wild, host Jessica Morgenthal welcomes Navy veteran Ed Eisenson for a powerful conversation about service, sacrifice, and the resilience found in both milit...

In this powerful throwback episode originally recorded in October 2024, Resilience Gone Wild host Jessica Morgenthal sits down one-on-one with Dr. Phil Richmond, a veterinarian and passionate mental health advocate. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this re-release sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health crisis within the veterinary profession—and the strength it takes to ask for help.Dr. Richmond shares his deeply personal story of recovery from substance abuse and suicidal ideation, offering both vulnerability and hope. Jessica and Dr. Richmond explore how intentional breathing, reframing negative thoughts, and building psychological safety in workplaces can foster resilience. This conversation is a reminder that emotional well-being matters—for veterinarians, for caregivers, and for all of us.Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers tangible tools and a powerful message: you are not alone.This episode was part 2 of a 2 part episodes about alligators and breathing. Check out episode 1 here: https://pod.link/1765376951/episode/2c44901c343d2fc22c26896f7c369252 (https://pod.link/1765376951/episode/2c44901c343d2fc22c26896f7c369252)Takeaways* This is a special re-release from October 2024 for Mental Health Awareness Month.* Dr. Phil Richmond opens up about his journey through substance abuse and suicidal ideation.* Veterinarians are at heightened risk for mental health challenges—and deserve more support.* Breathing techniques and mindfulness can reduce stress and improve daily functioning.* Negative self-talk can be disrupted with intentional, compassionate reframing.* Psychological safety in the workplace is essential for well-being and retention.* Building resilience requires practice, patience, and community.* Positive psychology offers evidence-based tools for personal and organizational growth.* Support systems are key—no one should struggle alone.* Asking for help is one of the most courageous steps we can take.Sound Bites* “Resilience isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build.”* “No one should have to suffer in silence.”* “Breathing intentionally helped bring me back from the edge.”* “Asking for help isn’t weak—it’s wildly brave.”* “Mental health care should be a part of every workplace strategy.”Resources* If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.* National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org (https://www.nami.org/)* Not One More Vet (NOMV): https://www.nomv.org (https://www.nomv.org/)* Learn more about Dr. Phil Richmond: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiprichmond/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiprichmond/)Connect With UsListen Now: https://pod.link/J4yd77 (https://pod.link/J4yd77)Share your thoughts with host Jessica Morgenthal: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])Explore More: Visit Resilience Gone Wild for show notes, photos, and resources: https://winwinwinmindset.com/the-resilience-gone-wild-podcast/ (https://winwinwinmindset.com/the-resilience-gone-wild-podcast/)Produced by Balancing Life’s Issues (BLI Studios) in partnership with a WinWinWin Mindset.