119: How 1 Million Women is making a difference with Natalie Isaacs
In this episode, we talk to Natalie Isaacs. She is the founder and CEO of 1 Million Women and the author of Every woman’s guide to saving the planet and has was won the Australian Geographics Conservationist of the Year.
During this episode, we find out how important it is to find your tribe. We talked about the inspiration behind finding 1 Million Women as well as Natalie’s book, “Every Woman’s Guide to Saving the planet”. We also find out how we can vote with our money with not just the way we spend our money, but also how we bank our money.
Links from the episodes
Mama Earth Talk Episode with Zero Waste Chef, Anne-Marie Bonneau
Where can people find Natalie?
Instagram – 1 Million Women
Instagram – Natalie Isaacs
Every Woman’s Guide to Saving the Planet
KEY TAKE AWAY
“1 Million Women is a movement, where we are all in this together and we have one end goal and that is to act on climate change through everything we do.”
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.