Mama Earth Talk: Real Stories, Honest Advice & a Greener Way Forward – Why Mama Earth Talk? What to Expect & How You’ll Be Inspired [Trailer]
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.
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.