Boots on the ground podcast

In this episode, Brian Kaelo shares his journey from growing up in the Mara to becoming a conservation scientist. He discusses the changes in the landscape, the importance of community involvement, and the role of technology and innovation in conservation. key topics Growing up in the Mara and early interactions with wildlife Changes in the Mara landscape over 25 years Community benefits from conservation efforts Role of organizations like Kenya Wildlife Trust and Mara Predator Conservation Program Impact of climate change on wildlife and habitats Use of technology and drones in conservation Advice for young people seeking opportunities in conservation The importance of seeing beyond local surroundings and global exposure Science and indigenous knowledge in wildlife management Future plans to give back to the Mara ecosystem Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

In this episode, Christina Hagen shares her journey into conservation, focusing on the plight of African penguins, their ecological importance, threats they face, and innovative conservation strategies. Discover how international collaboration, community engagement, and scientific research are vital to saving this iconic species. key topics The ecological role of African penguins Major threats: overfishing, pollution, climate change Conservation interventions: fishing quotas, breeding colonies, artificial islands International collaboration in conservation efforts Community involvement and ecotourism as sustainable solutions Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

In this episode, Antony Nampaso shares his journey into wildlife conservation, the importance of data in protecting ecosystems, and the vital role of community engagement. Discover how a passion for nature turned into a calling and the impact of data-driven conservation efforts in the Maasai Mara. key topics Antony Nampaso's conservation journey from childhood The role of data and technology in wildlife protection Community engagement and conflict mitigation in conservation The importance of patience and resilience in fieldwork Success factors of Enonkishu Conservancy model "Protect a ranger, protect an entire ecosystem" Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

In this episode, Dr. Lorraine Shuttleworth shares her journey into marine conservation, focusing on whale physiology, the marine big five, and innovative technologies transforming wildlife monitoring. Discover how her research and conservation efforts are making a difference for endangered species like the African penguin. Enjoy and be inspired🎙️💚

In a world where storytelling shapes perceptions and understanding, few voices resonate as deeply as that of Jonathan Benaya, a conservation storyteller from Uganda. With a unique blend of filmmaking, photography, and writing, Jonathan has dedicated his life to revealing the beauty and complexities of Africa's natural world. In this post, we explore his journey and insights into the art of storytelling, the power of nature, and the importance of preserving African narratives. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

Akshay shares his journey from youth outdoor activities to founding Just Act, a citizen-driven environmental organization in Kenya. He discusses the importance of citizen participation in conservation, legal civic tools, and the long-term vision for Kenya's environmental future. key topics Akshay's journey into conservation and activism The role of citizen participation in environmental protection Legal civic tools for environmental advocacy The significance of Nairobi National Park and threats to it Long-term vision for Kenya's environmental future Eny and be inspired to take action💚🎙️

This insightful interview features conservation experts Dominic Mutali, working at Mugie Wildlife Conservancy in Laikipia, and Derek Wanjala from Save the Elephants in Tsavo, discussing their work in human-wildlife coexistence, community engagement, and innovative solutions to mitigate human-elephant conflict in Kenya. Discover practical methods, success stories, and future opportunities for conservation efforts. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

In this insightful interview, Dr. Winnie Kiiru discusses the complexities of human-wildlife conflict in Africa, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, long-term strategies, and credible leadership in conservation efforts. She shares personal stories, leadership lessons, and hope for the future of Africa's wildlife. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

Imara Njeri, a conservation creative and wildlife guide, shares her journey from city life to wildlife conservation in Kenya. Discover how she uses creativity to make conservation engaging, the importance of local narratives, and her insights on big cats, wildlife photography, and inspiring the next generation. key topics Imara Njeri’s journey from city life to wildlife conservation Using creativity to make conservation engaging The importance of local narratives and indigenous knowledge Wildlife photography insights and detailed animal observations Challenges and opportunities for women in conservation Enjoy and be inspired🎙️💚

Most grassroots voices are ignored in global climate politics — until now. Dorcas Naishorua, Miss Climate Kenya 2023-2025 and fierce advocate from Kajiado County, shares how her lived experiences as a Maasai woman are reshaping climate leadership from the ground up. Growing up as a pastoralist girl facing drought, water scarcity, and cultural barriers, Dorcas reveals how her personal journey ignited her passionfor community-driven change. She breaks down the false priorities of international conferences, exposing how billions are spent without real impact—unless indigenous voices lead the way. Through her story, you'll discover her unconventional path from fetching water as a child to becoming Kenya’s first Miss Climate, harnessing beauty and leadership as tools for disruption. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this inspiring episode, 13-year-old Alana Chelangat from Kenya discusses her journey into climate activism, her projects, and her vision for a sustainable future. Gain insights into how youth are shaping the climate conversation and learn how storytelling, education, and resilience can lead to impactful change. Main Topics: Alana’s early motivation and first encounter with climate issues in Turkana Her leadership roles in school environmental clubs and community projects The meaning behind Dunia Endelevu: sustainable development platforms for youth Key projects, including tree planting and seed law advocacy Challenges faced by young climate leaders, including underestimation and access to decision-making Climate awareness podcasts and making science relatable to children Lessons learned from climate discussions with experts like Greenpeace and Greenpeace Africa Her experience at COP28 and COP29, and reflections on youth participation The concept of climate justice explained through a school project analogy Future aspirations: expanding impact, mentoring youth, and local storytelling Inspirational figures: Wangari Maathai and Howard Schultz Words of encouragement for young changemakers around the world Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

Join us as we explore the impactful work of Laikipia Wildlife Forum with Program Officer Peter Mathenge Mwangi. Discover their conservation strategies, community engagement, and innovative projects that protect Kenya's wildlife and landscapes. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️

Welcome back to Boots on the Ground , the podcast where we spotlight the voices shaping the future of conservation from the frontlines. Today’s episode features an extraordinary leader whose work is redefining what conservation looks like across Africa. At just 33, Peter Fredrick Moll — also known by his Maa name Saitoti , meaning “the one who takes care of others” — is helping lead a powerful shift toward a more inclusive, community-driven model of conservation. For over a decade, Peter has worked at the intersection of wildlife protection, youth leadership, and community empowerment, championing a simple but transformative idea: that conservation succeeds best when the people closest to the land are at the center of its stewardship. He is the founder of Stand Up Shout Out — a movement he started at just 20 years old — which has grown into a continent-wide platform mobilizing thousands of young changemakers across Kenya and more than 20 African countries. But beyond the titles and achievements, Peter is building something deeper — a generation of leaders rooted in purpose, dignity, and action. In this conversation, Dibblex sits down with Peter to explore what it really means to lead from the ground up, the future of African conservation, and how empowering communities is the key to protecting our planet. This is Boots on the Ground — and this is a story of people, purpose, and the power of local leadership. EnjoyEnjoy💚

From the heart of the Maasai Mara, where the wild still writes its own stories, comes a voice shaped by survival, tradition, and the spirit of the land. Meet Saito Mike — born Mike Saitoti ole Morijoi — a boy who once wandered lost in the wilderness for five days… and lived to tell a story protected by a lioness. Raised herding cattle across the open savannah, his journey grew into something extraordinary. Today, he is not only the author of “Boy and the Lion” , but also a seasoned safari guide who has walked the landscapes of the Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and beyond — sharing untold stories through guided walks, bird calls, and the stars above. This is not just conservation. This is lived experience. This is storytelling from the ground itself. Enjoy💚🎙️

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Rosebell Abwonji shares her journey from a city girl in Nairobi to a prominent figure in conservation. She discusses her unexpected entry into the field, the importance of storytelling in conservation, and the need for gender inclusion and community engagement. Rosebell emphasizes the significance of understanding cultural dynamics and the power of women in conservation. She also reflects on her educational experiences and offers advice to young people, particularly women, on how to navigate their careers and make a difference in the world. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this conversation, Alex Lekishon shares his journey from the hospitality industry to conservation, emphasizing the vital connection between tourism and conservation. He discusses the importance of effective communication in documenting impact and engaging communities, as well as the challenges and successes he has faced in his role. Lekishon highlights the need for inclusivity in conservation efforts, the significance of donor relationships, and the future of conservation communications, advocating for community empowerment and storytelling. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Erika Tavares shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Angola to a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. She discusses her motivations for pursuing a career in environmental biology, the founding of Eco Angola, and the innovative projects aimed at educating the youth and promoting sustainability. Erika emphasizes the importance of building partnerships with government, NGOs, and local communities to achieve long-term environmental goals. She also addresses the unique challenges faced by women in conservation and offers valuable advice for young environmentalists. With a hopeful vision for Angola's environmental future, Erika calls on listeners to take meaningful action in their communities. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Ambrose Letoluai shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Northern Kenya to becoming a renowned conservationist and leopard researcher. He discusses the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation, the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, and the empowerment of local communities, especially women, in conservation efforts. Ambrose emphasizes the need for coexistence between wildlife and people, the role of education in fostering future conservation leaders, and the impact of visual storytelling in changing narratives around conservation. He envisions a future where communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts, benefiting from the wildlife with which they coexist, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Enjoy and be Inspired🎙️💚

Happy World Rhino Day!! In this new episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Dr. Philip Muruthi shares his extensive journey in conservation, highlighting the importance of community involvement, innovative solutions, and the need for a holistic approach to wildlife protection. He discusses the successes in rhino conservation, the role of technology, and the significance of educating and inspiring the next generation to engage in conservation efforts. Dr. Muruthi emphasizes the urgent need for action to protect endangered species and the environment for future generations. Enjoy🎙️💚

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Florence Wakio, a ranger and drone pilot, shares her inspiring journey in wildlife conservation. Growing up in a wildlife-rich area, she felt a responsibility to protect nature. Florence discusses her dynamic role as a ranger, the impact of drone technology on wildlife monitoring and anti-poaching efforts, and the challenges she faces in a male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, memorable experiences in conservation, and the need for more women in the ranger workforce. Florence concludes with a call to action for support in conservation efforts. Enjoy and be inspired💚