The Field Notes Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Tantin, Senior Director of Equitable Conservation at the National Audubon Society, to explore what it truly means to build an inclusive future for people and the planet. Jessica shares how she’s helping transform conservation by embedding Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) principles across Audubon’s programs — from community partnerships to conservation planning.

We dive into the challenges and opportunities of bringing equity into daily practice, the importance of accountability in environmental work, and how conservation organizations can evolve to better reflect and serve local bird and human communities alike. With her thoughtful and grounded leadership style, Jessica offers a powerful look at how connecting strategy, culture, and practice can reshape the conservation movement across the hemisphere.

In episode three, hosts Jodhan Fine and Omar Alui are joined by wildlife biologist Bobby Figarotta. In this episode join us in discussing how the Salton Sea became a birding haven, and what a weird desert sea can teach us about conservation, equity, and life.

In this episode hosts Jodhan, Omar, and Kelsey are joined by the first guest on The Field Notes Podcast, Naomi Mansfield! Join the crew as we discuss how we fell in love with birds and birding, why we stay interested, and how the birding community can make loving birds welcoming for all.

Welcome to the very first episode of The Field Notes Podcast, brought to you by the Pasadena Audubon Society. In this episode, hosts Jodhan and Omar discuss which US state birds belong, pass, or need urgent replacement, and what those replacements should be.

Come along for a fun conversation with lots of anecdotes.