Mama Earth Talk

In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, host Mariska shares her transformative experience hiking through Yellowstone National Park, emphasizing the beauty and importance of national parks for conservation, mental health, and cultural heritage. She discusses the challenges these parks face, including poaching and budget cuts, and highlights the need for protection and expansion of these vital spaces for future generations. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00] Exploring the Beauty of Nature [01:48] The Importance of National Parks [08:51] Challenges Facing National Parks [13:49] Why We Must Protect National Parks Links from the episodes:Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone’s national park’s 150th year anniversary with Kevin Costner Wildland Trekking 5 Day hiking tour that we took Bob Brown Foundation Black Mamba's Key Takeaways:The beauty of untouched landscapes is transformative. National parks are crucial for our mental and physical health. Conservation and biodiversity are key reasons to protect parks. National parks play a vital role in climate resilience. Cultural and historical preservation is essential in national parks. Spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety. Budget cuts can lead to trail despair and increased poaching. Education programs in parks are vital for awareness and protection. Corporate encroachment poses a risk to national parks. We must value and protect our national parks for future generations. In our next episode, we’ll be talking worms, looking at some amazing ways they are playing their part. 

In this episode, we talk to Rebecca Tickell. She is an award-winning environmental filmmaker, activist, and co-director of Kiss the Ground and Common Ground, two powerful documentaries that spotlight the role of regenerative farming in healing our planet. During this episode, we dive into the urgent need to restore soil health, the surprising connection between agriculture and climate change, and how storytelling can drive global transformation. Rebecca shares her journey from child actor to environmental changemaker, and offers practical ways we can all support a more sustainable food system. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[02:30]-Rebecca's Sustainable Journey [06:00]- The Power of Regenerative Agriculture [12:50]- Documentary Impact: Common Ground and Kiss the Ground [17:30]- The Challenges of Farming [24:00]- The Role of Community in regeneration [33:55]- Final 5 Links from the episodes:Silent Spring by Rachel Carson  Common Ground - Official Trailer | Prime Video  Kiss the Ground - Official Movie Trailer (2020) Where can people find our guest?Instagram Facebook YouTube Website Take Action Key Takeaways:Farmers who transition from industrialized agriculture to regenerative agriculture, over 90% of them saw an increase in their profits within year one. Feeding the world is a myth... you have to be able to feed the farmers' families and that ecosystem that the food comes from. Rebecca's journey began with witnessing the harmful effects of industrial farming in her family. Regenerative agriculture can heal the planet and improve farmers' profits. Soil health is crucial for climate stability and food nutrition. Farmers often feel trapped in a cycle of debt and chemical dependence. Community support is essential for transitioning to regenerative practices. Eating locally and seasonally can help support sustainable farming. The narrative of 'feeding the world' needs to shift to 'feeding communities'. Conversations about farming practices must be approached with empathy and understanding. There is hope for a sustainable future through collective action. *Assets courtesy of Big Picture Ranch.

Ever wondered how you can support Mama Earth Talk? In this special bonus episode, I (Mariska) answer the many requests from our amazing community about how to help us grow and continue spreading sustainability inspiration. Ways to Support the Podcast:1. Listen to More Episodes Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform Catch up on older episodes and explore curated playlists 3 Podcasts to get you started Sustainable Business Playlist Plastic Rebels: Breaking Free from the Throwaway Culture Eco Game Changers: The Rebels, Pioneers & Disruptors 2. Leave a Review Reviews help others find the show and tell me what’s resonating with you. You can leave a review on: Podchaser (How to Video) Apple Podcast (How to Video) Spotify (How to Video) or your favorite platform 3. Subscribe or Follow Hit the Subscribe or Follow button on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. 4. Share the Podcast Know someone who loves the planet or runs a purpose-driven business? Share your favorite episode with them. 5. Connect on Social Media Engaging with us on social media helps us reach more people. Instagram: @mamaearthtalk 6. Join Our Newsletter Get eco-tips, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes updates delivered to your inbox. Sign up at here or via our Instagram bio Feeling Extra Generous? Become a Monthly Supporter If you’d like to go above and beyond, you can join our monthly membership. Your support directly helps keep the podcast going and growing—and you’ll get access to exclusive perks. Sponsor or Collaborate with Us We’re also opening a few sponsorship opportunities for upcoming episodes. If you’re an eco-conscious brand, purpose-driven business, or organization interested in partnering, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out via our Contact Page or send a direct message on Instagram. Your support—whether through listening, sharing, reviewing, or partnering—helps amplify our message of sustainability and inspires others to live lighter on the planet. Thank you for being part of the Mama Earth Talk journey.

In this special episode, I’m hitting pause—not on the podcast, but on the journey—to say thank you. From the very first episode to now, over 180 episodes later, Mama Earth Talk has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined… and it’s all thanks to you—our amazing guests, loyal listeners, generous collaborators, mentors, and my beautiful Crazy Birds community. Special thanks to: Dr. Sylvia Earle Captain Paul Watson Dr. Jane Goodall Natalie (Tully) Hore Bob Brown Yvon Chouinard – Founder of Patagonia / 1% for the Planet Robin Wall Kimmerer Marita Peters John Lee Dumas Mark Asquith Podcast Websites Captivate Ashley Tough Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) Edith Cowan University (ECU) Deann Garcia Kat O'Mara Angus Morrison-saunders Clelia Marti De Ocampo Teresa Ann Bertossi Wendy Jedlička Holly Robbins Shanna Rule Dawn Keene and to all you amazing crazy birds checking in every week.

Hello and welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for busy, eco-curious individuals and businesses who want to make a real difference, live a little lighter on the planet... and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell, Founder and host of Mama Earth Talk and Tails and Tones. With a background in Environmental Science, a Master’s in Sustainable Design, and years of experience in sustainability across lifestyle and industry—I’m here to help you cut through the noise and take meaningful action. Every Monday, I bring you honest conversations, relatable stories, and super practical tips to help you reduce waste and live more sustainably—in ways that actually fit your life and your work. Whether you’re making choices at home or guiding your business away from greenwashing toward real impact, this podcast is here to support you. No guilt. No overwhelm. Just real talk, and real change—one small step at a time. Most episodes are just you and me, but now and then, I’m joined by scientists, activists, creators, and changemakers from around the world—people who are doing the work and bringing us hope for the future. If you’re already part of the Crazy Birds community—welcome back. And if you’re new here: welcome in. You’re officially one of us now. You can listen to Mama Earth Talk on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon—anywhere you tune in. And to subscribe, just head to MamaEarthTalk.com/listen. Mama Earth has a voice—and it is us Crazy Birds.

In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, Mariska explores Coldplay's sustainability efforts during their world tour. She discusses the band's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, innovative solutions for sustainable touring, and the importance of transparency in their environmental claims. The episode highlights how Coldplay engages fans in their green initiatives and emphasizes that while they may not be perfect, their efforts are a significant step towards a more sustainable music industry. [00:00] Coldplay's Sustainable Tour: An Introduction [04:20]Coldplay's Commitment to Sustainability [10:35] Innovative Solutions for Reducing Emissions [15:30] Assessing Coldplay's Green Claims [20:57] Engaging Fans in Sustainability [26:11] The Verdict on Coldplay's Efforts Links from the episodes: 157: How the sounds of the ocean can impact our lives with Joshua Sam Miller 057: How fries can fuel your car with Karl Feilder 090: How one tree planted can make a difference with Matt Hill Where can people find Cold Play? Cold Plays Sustainability Key takeaways: Coldplay's commitment to sustainability began with a pledge to not tour until they could do so sustainably. They aim to reduce carbon emissions by 50% compared to previous tours. Partnerships with companies like DHL help reduce transport emissions. Coldplay uses renewable energy sources to power their shows. The band encourages fans to participate in sustainability efforts during concerts. Transparency in sustainability reporting is crucial for building trust. Coldplay's sustainability report is accessible and easy to understand. Engaging fans in eco-friendly practices can inspire broader change. Sustainability in the music industry is about progress, not perfection. Coldplay's efforts could set a precedent for other artists and venues. Photo: Coldplay via Spotify

In this episode, we celebrate the incredible life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall — world-renowned primatologist, environmentalist, and lifelong advocate for animals and the planet. During this very special episode, we reflect on her 91st birthday and share highlights from a rare and personal interview I had the honor of recording with her. We explore the connection between science, spirituality, and activism, dive into what chimpanzees might teach us about ourselves, and reimagine how we define our relationship with nature — all through the wise and hopeful lens of Dr. Goodall. Happy birthday, Dr. Goodall. Thank you for your tireless work and for showing us that every individual makes a difference.  Thank you for all the messages and inparticular the two below: Yolande Swanepoel Her favorite quote from Dr. Jane is: “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you.” She writes: “Thank you, Dr. Jane, for all your inspiration, and keep doing what you do to inspire the younger generation. One person cannot save all the animals, BUT one person can make a difference for animals.” Raksha Uttamchandani “On your birthday, Dr. Goodall, I would simply say: Thank you. Thank you for showing us that every small action matters, that hope is a choice, and that one voice—when used with purpose—can inspire a global movement. Wishing you a day filled with the same joy and wonder you’ve given to the world.” Thank you for the amazing team at Terra at Expo and Roots and Shoots for hosting this amazing event. Links from the episodes: Waste Me Not Campaign Wounda's Journey Where can people find Dr. Jane? Jane Googall Institute Roots & Shoots Roots & Shoots UAE Instagram KEY TAKE AWAY“Together we can, together we will, together we must change the world”

In this episode, we talk to Curtis Shuck. He is the Founder and Chairman of the Well-Done Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to tackling the environmental challenges posed by the millions of orphaned and abandoned oil and gas wells.   During this episode we dig deep into the scale of the issue, the environmental impact of their work as well as look at the innovative solutions the Well Done Foundation is implementing.  Links from the episodes: Landman Where can people find Curtis and the Well Done Foundation? Facebook Instagram LinkedIn LinkedIn - Curtis YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“Leaving things better than we found them"

In this episode, we talk to Thom Norman. He is trailblazer in the fight against factory farming and the founder of FarmKind—the first organization to use research-backed insights from GivingMultiplier.org to address this critical issue. FarmKind helps donors maximize their impact by splitting contributions between expert-recommended charities tackling factory farming’s effects on animals and the planet, and their own favorite causes, with bonuses to amplify both. Thom’s work is revolutionizing philanthropy to create a more humane and sustainable world. During this episode, we explore how Thom transitioned from the courtroom to advocating against factory farming, shedding light on its profound environmental and ethical impacts. He shares thought-provoking insights on greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and the psychological toll of our food choices. We also dive into the innovative work of FarmKind, from leveraging psychology to amplify the impact of ethical donations to collaborating with chefs to transform supply chains.  Links from the episodes Where can people find Thom and FarmKind? Facebook Instagram LinkedIn - Thom YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“Empowering consumers to make a difference in farming”

In this episode, we talk to Brett Jenks, who leads Rare, a global organization empowering communities to protect and manage natural resources sustainably. As CEO, he has driven initiatives like Fish Forever—the world’s largest coastal fishery recovery effort—and has blended behavioral science with community-led conservation, expanding the organization’s reach to over 60 countries to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable agriculture. He has also extended this work into the for-profit sector with The Meloy Fund. Additionally, he is a Catto Fellow, Braddock Scholar, McNulty Prize laureate, and trustee of the Grantham Trust. His commitment to our planet has earned him global recognition, including the Rose-Walters Prize for Environmental Activism. During this episode, we explore Rare’s innovative approach to conservation, including how behavioral science and community-led efforts are transforming global environmental action. We discuss lessons from partnerships, the role of impact investing, and the potential of tech innovations like the EverForest game. Plus, we uncover practical steps listeners can take to support conservation and examine the decisions that have shaped Rare’s impact under his leadership. Links from the episodes:180: 1% for the Planet: Pioneering Global Environmental Solutions with Kate Williams Ever Forrest Game Where can people find Brett and Rare?Facebook Instagram LinkedIn - Rare LinkedIn - Brett YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“People change when they see other people change.”

In this episode, we talk to Wendy Jedlička. She has a strong background in design, manufacturing, and business. As a Lifetime Certified Packaging Professional and certified Sustainability Associate, she brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable design and business strategies. She is the president of a packaging design firm that specializes in creating sustainable solutions, and she’s played a key role in coordinating the o2 International Network for Sustainable Design in the US. Beyond her work in the field, she also develops curriculum and teaches courses on sustainable design, marketing, and business. An internationally recognized speaker and prolific writer, she’s contributed to leading design publications and authored chapters in well-known books, bringing cutting-edge insights to professionals worldwide.   During this episode we talked about our guest’s journey into sustainable packaging, exploring what first inspired her, how packaging has evolved, and the latest materials and technologies shaping its future. She dispels common misconceptions about sustainable packaging, shares the biggest challenges businesses face in adopting sustainable practices, and discusses her efforts to weave sustainability into education. We also talk about her books, Packaging Sustainability and Sustainable Graphic Design, and hear her advice for anyone wanting to make a meaningful impact.  Links from the episodes: Course 77 video Nanobag Where can people find Wendy? LinkedIn MCAD O2 Upper Midwest   KEY TAKE AWAY "Products and packaging needs to be a team and currently they are not treated that way."

In this episode, we talk to Maddie Hamann, a remarkable individual with a journey that spans diverse fields. She began with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, followed by a Ph.D. in Oceanography, and went on to manage large-scale projects, ranging from research campaigns to art installations. Eventually, she made the bold move to start a sustainable bread company. Her passion for healing humanity’s relationship with our planet led her to realize that her skills in organizing and executing impactful projects could make a greater difference than research alone. Now, as Co-Founder and Director of Marketing at PACHA, she promotes regenerative agriculture through healthy eating. During this episode, we talked about what inspired Maddie’s career shift, the origins of PACHA, and why buckwheat was chosen for its environmental benefits. We also discussed her vision for PACHA’s future—all with a focus on supporting Mama Earth. Links from the episodes: Kiss the ground documentary Invest in Pacha Where can people find Maddie and Pacha? Facebook Instagram - Pacha Instagram - Maddie LinkedIn - Maddie YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“I wanted to be part of the solution.”

In this episode, we talk to Paul Hargreaves, the CEO of Cotswold Fayre and Flourish, two award-winning businesses committed to sustainability. Paul's company was one of the first in the UK to certify as a B Corp, setting a powerful example for other companies looking to balance purpose and profit. He’s also a speaker and author of Forces for Good and The Fourth Bottom Line, where he explores the impact businesses can have beyond the traditional triple bottom line. During this episode, we delve into Paul's inspiring sustainability journey and discuss how businesses can drive positive change for both people and the planet. We’ll uncover what it really takes to become B Corp certified, the challenges along the way, and how companies can go beyond certification to create lasting legacies. Paul shares insights into how Cotswold Fayre integrates sustainability into everyday operations and explains the concept of the “fourth bottom line.” Plus, he offers a glimpse into the future of business as a force for good, and what he's most proud of on this mission to protect Mama Earth. Links from the episodes Triple bottom line episode with Julian Gunderley 1% for the planet episode with Kate Williams Where can people find Paul? Cotswold Fayre Flourish Paul LinkedIn Website

In this episode, we dive into the concept of the circular economy, exploring how it differs from the traditional linear model and why it’s essential for a sustainable future. From understanding the role of design in extending product lifecycles to discovering innovative companies like Loop by Terracycle and Herman Miller, we highlight real-world examples of circularity in action.  Key differences between the linear and circular economies: Linear Economy: Us humans have adopted a linear approach that maximizes profits without paying the true costs. (Short term profit, no real thought of the long term implications) Circular Economy: Nature shows us the way with a circular approach, where everything goes back into the earth to feed the next cycle, maximizing the life cycle of products. (There is a ) Linear Economy: Waste equals waste. Circular Economy: Waste equals food for the next step in the cycle. Linear Economy: Design prioritizes customer needs, usability, and appealing packaging. Circular Economy: Design prioritizes recycling, easy repair and replacement of components, and ultimately, a product's full lifecycle. Links from the episodes: Ellen MacArthur Foundation The Story of stuff  by Annie Leonard Patagonia The Shitthropocene | Full Film | Welcome to the Age of Cheap Crap Nudie Jeans Rent Runway ThredUp Shop Retold Fairphone Plaine Products  Loop by Terracycle  Herman Miller Cradle to Cradle  KEY TAKE AWAY“The circular economy reimagines waste as a resource, driving sustainability by keeping products and materials in use and regenerating nature.” Image Source: Final Straw

In this episode, I am thrilled to return after a brief hiatus to share some exciting personal and professional updates. I recently graduated with a post-grad degree in Environmental Science, making the Dean's List, and am now diving into a Master's in Sustainable Design with a focus on transforming sustainability in the pet industry as well as a Masters in Environmental Science. I also proudly attended my Australian Citizenship ceremony and embarked on training for my first ultra marathon. Additionally, our family has decided to call Dubai home once again, and I am recording this episode from my brand-new green room, excited to test out some new setups. During this episode, we discuss the importance of community, especially in transient cities like Dubai. Reflecting on my recent experiences and studies, I delve into the role of community in fostering resilience and support. Highlighting the inspiring work of past guest Shani Graham and her TED Talks on building and sustaining community, I explore various ways to get involved, from Buy Nothing groups to community gardens. I encourage listeners to find or start local initiatives, emphasizing that every small step counts towards making a positive impact. Join me as we reconnect and rediscover the power of community in driving sustainability and personal growth. Links from the episodes: 136: Why building a resilient and connected community is important for a sustainable future with Shani Graham Take a street and build a community: Shani Graham at TEDxPerth Resilience in turbulent times? The answer is community. | Shani Graham | TEDxPerth 178: Sailing the waves of change a conversation with Captain Paul Watson Free Captain Paul Watson Bob Brown Foundation Key Take Away “There are so many different ways how we can step up or step in and join a community. ”

In this episode, we talk to Briege Whitehead. She is the Founder and Creative Director of White Spark Pictures, driven by a passion for storytelling. Through her innovative work in film, she inspires change and elevates environmental awareness. A critically acclaimed director and executive producer, she has spearheaded numerous projects, including 'Impossible Planet' and 'Beyond the Milky Way.' Notably, her groundbreaking VR hit, 'The Antarctica Experience,' earned her the Channel 7’s Western Australian Young Achiever of the Year Award. Other awards include the 40under40 winner (2020), former SPA (Screen Producers Australia) 'One-to-Watch,' and the winner of the 2020 ECU International Alumni Award. During this episode, we discussed how the origins of her sustainable journey intertwined storytelling with environmental advocacy, emphasizing the importance of factual content. We also delved into her groundbreaking VR project, 'The Antarctica Experience,' and explored some exciting new projects she has in the pipeline. Links from the episodes: White Spark Pictures Programmes Where can people find Briege? Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Website Key Take Away “You take it for granted when it is in your own backyard”

In this episode, we talk to Angus Morrison-Saunders. He is an Environmental Impact Assessment expert with over 35 years of experience. He has excelled in academia, research, and consultancy as well as an editor of leading EIA journals and a dedicated environmental consultant, who has significantly shaped the field. During this episode we talked about origins of EIA, highlighted EIA's pivotal role in mitigating environmental impacts, and explored challenges like defining "significant" impacts and the comprehensive EIA process. Emphasizing the evolving role of public engagement, obstacles in EIA, the practice of offsetting impacts, and the necessity of collaboration between sectors. Links from the episodes: The best books on environmental impact assessment Where can people find Angus? LinkedIn ECU Key Take Away “Think before you act”

In this episode, I share with you one of the important topics that I looked out in depth this year, that is eutrophication. It might seem like a big word and if you are wondering what am I talking about, well it simple terms it is mainly the greenish water that you might often come across in some of the aqua systems, but there is a lot more to it. The term, eutrophication. originating from the Greek word "eutrophos,", meaning well-nourished, is a complex environmental issue that has far-reaching consequences on aquatic ecosystems. This phenomenon involves the enrichment of aquatic environments with excess nutrients, leading to profound ecological changes. While eutrophication can occur naturally over extended periods, the recent acceleration of this process is primarily attributed to human activities, marking it as a significant contemporary environmental challenge.  KEY TAKE AWAY“Every step no matter how big or small can make a difference.”

In this episode, we talk to Lisa Blair. She is a record holding sailor, that only started her sailing journey at the age of 25 and in seven short years, started making history. She was the first woman to sail solo around Antarctica with one stop, overcoming a dramatic dismasting at sea. She went on to lead the first all-female team in the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race after setting two more world records by sailing solo, non-stop, and unassisted around Australia. In 2022, she became the fastest person to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around Antarctica while conducting crucial ocean health research. With over 110,000 nautical miles under her belt, she is not only an accomplished sailor but also an author, adventurer, and inspirational speaker. During this episode we talked about some of the challenges she faced while sailing solo around Antarctica, What inspired her naming her boat Climate Action Now. Some of the magical wild life encounters she shared while at sea as well as how climate change and the plastic pollution is impacting our oceans.  Links from the episodes: 178: Sailing the waves of change a conversation with Captain Paul Watson Climate Action Now Message Ice Maiden the film Facing Fear Book Melanie Perkins (Canva) Million Dollar Island Where can people find Lisa? Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“The rhythm of the planet is changing.”

In this episode, we talk to Kate Williams. She is the CEO at 1 % for the Planet. Founded in 2002 it is a global movement inspiring businesses and individuals to support environmental solutions. Her relentless dedication to environmental sustainability has made her a driving force in corporate responsibility. During this episode, we talked about what exactly is 1% for the planet, how the certification process works as well as what type organisations forms part of the 1% for the planet network. We also dug into some of Kate’s goals and aspirations as CEO and the involvement of the environment over the last two decades of 1 % of the planet.  Links from the episodes: Let my People go surfing book by Yvon Chouinard, the founder of 1% for the Planet Planet impact fund British cycling team Where can people find Kate and 1% for the Planet? Facebook Instagram LinkedIn - 1% for the Planet LinkedIn - Kate Williams Twitter Vimeo YouTube Website KEY TAKE AWAY“Progress not perfection”