There is a vision in Cornwall, one of large scale nature recovery from land to sea. In this episode we hear the story and the vision of ‘Tor to Shore’, eloquently described by Matt Walpole, CEO of Cornwall Wildlife Trust. We discuss unexpected challenges (looking at you beavers), the importance of joined up landscapes and the power of community engagement. 

For both new and regular listeners, we cover everything you need to know about the Grange Project one year in. Whether you’re interested in the physical changes, how we intend to finance the project or our vision for nature education, we hope you find value in our enthusiasm!

In this interview with Simon Roper, we debate the problems and possibilities of technology in rewilding, covering everything from the latest innovations to whether technology ever could, or should, replace boots in the ground. Whether you’re a self described technology geek or living a low tech lifestyle, the debates in this episode offer something for everyone.

In the context of carbon emissions related to imported foods, increasing food insecurity, pollution from intensive farming and corporate monopolies, maybe it's time we diversified our approach when it comes to imagining the future of farming in the UK?

James Hitchcock, CEO of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, takes us on a big picture journey in this week’s episode. Covering a range of topics including the role of the Wildlife Trusts, the relationship between Wales and rewilding and the conception of his dream project, Wilder Pentwyn Farm.

The foundations of this rich episode are a conversation with Laura Fairs, the Lead Facilitator and Co-Creator of the Embercombe Rewilding Training. We discuss the history of the training, the key subjects covered in the training and the importance of inclusivity and diversity. It was then our pleasure to host alumni from the 2023 course: Claudia, Olly and Gerry. They share with us their experiences and the power of the community that’s been created.

Why do beavers create dams? How do they enhance the ecosystem around them? What is getting in the way of their return? As a Project Officer with the Welsh Beaver Project, Alicia Leow-Dyke is the perfect guest to introduce us to the beaver and their importance within the British Landscape.

Rob graciously takes us back to woodland basics in this fascinating episode as we consider the role of trees in addressing the climate and ecological crises. We discuss the unique opportunities presented by the Welsh uplands, the (successful) efforts of bracken to take over the world and the innovative techniques developed by Stump up For Trees as they seek to plant one million trees across the Brecon Beacons.

Are you one of the 84.4% of the population that live in an urban setting? In this episode, Elliot and Digby from Citizen Zoo tell us about rewilding projects across London, including the reintroductions of water voles and beavers.

In this inspirational conversation, we start off with the story of the curlew and end up discussing the importance of ‘nature literacy’. Mary’s creativity, passion and determination shine through as we hear about her historic campaign for the curlew, driving forward the natural history GCSE and her hopes for a nature pathway throughout our education system. ‘If you’re prepared to put yourself out there, to be uncomfortable, be vulnerable, do all the hard work, just because you love something, then you will be absolutely amazed about what happens’.

Join the journey of Heal Rewilding as we hear about the mission of the charity, the acquisition of their first site and progress a year later. Jan Stannard, Founder Trustee and Acting CEO, clearly describes the many decisions made by the charity over the last year and the importance of new spaces for nature. We loved the ambition, the insights shared and Jan’s thoughtful reflections.

In this delightful chat with Frank, we start to make sense of why our relationship to food is so critical for the climate. We explore a range of topics including the scary impact of food waste, the challenge of our meat and dairy consumption and the role of social tipping points. As well as the science, Frank also shares with us his vision of the ‘good life’ and the benefits of this for our wellbeing and the planet.

As the majority of the UK population lives within an urban environment, it’s critical that ‘wilder nature’ is not the privilege of the rural landscape. Stephen Mason, Community Parks Officer at Cheltenham Borough Council, shares practical examples of what rewilding can look like in a semi-urban context, how to bring people along with the journey and the benefits for people, places and nature alike.

Chantal’s passion for the wild boar exudes throughout this interview as we discuss the role the boar plays in habitat-regeneration, the challenge they present for their human neighbours and how they might just be rewilding us?

Toni, co-founder of Green Up Farm, takes us through everything you need to know about indoor hydroponic vertical farming: from what you need to get started, routes to market and the challenges of being zero waste

The UK’s ecological health is in the bottom 10% on earth and over 80% of UK young people are eager to take action to help the environment, but only 1 in 5 believe they are being listened to on environmental issues. Jack and Noah share the story of Youngwilders, which exists to turn these statistics around. Listen to them talk about youth engagement, inclusivity within the environmental sector and how you can get involved as a young person or landowner.

As we look forward into 2024, Tom and Chloe have reflected on the Wilder Podcast back catalogue and selected six moments which particularly resonated from them. Whether you’re a regular listener who’d enjoy a reminder, or a new recruit who’s interested in what the Wilder Podcast is all about, we hope you take something away from our conversation. What moments shaped you?

Is rewilding in the UK even possible? Why are terms important? What is rewilding anyway?

In this episode we are joined by academic expert in rewilding, Dr Stephen Carver, as we discuss the role of human intervention, our desire for an ‘outcome’ and the challenges of rewilding in the UK.

Covering everything from the scientific theory of rewilding (diversity, disturbance and distribution!) to the art of tree planting on his very own nature reserve, the inspirational communicator that is Chris D'Agorne will leave you both enthused and resourced to enhance biodiversity in your own green space.