198: Coffee Watch: A Mission for Change with Etelle Higonnet
Summary
In this conversation, Etelle Higonnet, founder of Coffee Watch, discusses her journey into the world of sustainable coffee production and the alarming realities of child labor, slavery, and environmental degradation within the coffee industry. She emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and action in driving change, advocating for living wages for farmers and the need for better certifications. The discussion also touches on the role of law in holding corporations accountable and the impact of Coffee Watch’s initiatives in raising awareness and prompting political responses.
197: The Role of Earthworms in Soil Health with Sam Baker
In this episode, we talk to Sam Baker. He shares his journey from studying chemistry and pyrotechnics to founding Wriggle Brew, a company focused on creating sustainable fertilizers using earthworms. He discusses the environmental challenges posed by synthetic fertilizers, the importance of soil health in combating climate change, and the role of decomposers in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Sam also highlights the challenges faced in developing their product and the significance of perseverance in scientific research. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of sustainability and the responsibility we all have to protect our planet.
196: Why National Parks Matter
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.
195: The Ground Beneath Our Feet: A Hidden Climate Solution — with Rebecca Tickell
In this episode, we talk to Rebecca Tickell. She is an award-winning environmental filmmaker, activist, and co-director of Kiss the…
How to Support the Mama Earth Talk Podcast
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.
Mama Earth Talk: Real Stories, Honest Advice & a Greener Way Forward – Why Mama Earth Talk? What to Expect & How You’ll Be Inspired [Trailer]
Mama Earth Talk: Real Stories, Honest Advice & a Greener Way Forward – Why Mama Earth Talk? What to Expect & How You’ll Be Inspired [Trailer]
Mama Earth Talk: The Thank You Episode – Behind the Mic, Beyond the Mission
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.
194: Is Coldplay’s Eco-Tour the Real Deal or Just Greenwashing? A Deep Dive into Sustainable Touring
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.
193: Hope in Action with Dr. Jane Goodall
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.
192: Plugging the Past, Protecting the Future: Curtis Shuck on Fixing Abandoned Wells
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.
191: Revolutionizing Philanthropy and Fighting Factory Farming with Thom Norman
In this episode, we talk to Thom Norman. He is trailblazer in the fight against factory farming and the founder…
190: Empowering Conservation with Brett Jenks: Rare’s Global Impact on Climate and Sustainability
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.