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 Ground and Common Ground, two powerful documentaries that spotlight the role of regenerative farming in healing our planet.
During this episode, we dive into the urgent need to restore soil health, the surprising connection between agriculture and climate change, and how storytelling can drive global transformation. Rebecca shares her journey from child actor to environmental changemaker, and offers practical ways we can all support a more sustainable food system.
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:
[02:30]-Rebecca’s Sustainable Journey
[06:00]- The Power of Regenerative Agriculture
[12:50]- Documentary Impact: Common Ground and Kiss the Ground
[17:30]- The Challenges of Farming
[24:00]- The Role of Community in regeneration
[33:55]- Final 5
Links from the episodes:
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
Common Ground – Official Trailer | Prime Video
Kiss the Ground – Official Movie Trailer (2020)
Where can people find our guest?
Key Takeaways:
- Farmers who transition from industrialized agriculture to regenerative agriculture, over 90% of them saw an increase in their profits within year one.
- Feeding the world is a myth… you have to be able to feed the farmers’ families and that ecosystem that the food comes from.
- Rebecca’s journey began with witnessing the harmful effects of industrial farming in her family.
- Regenerative agriculture can heal the planet and improve farmers’ profits.
- Soil health is crucial for climate stability and food nutrition.
- Farmers often feel trapped in a cycle of debt and chemical dependence.
- Community support is essential for transitioning to regenerative practices.
- Eating locally and seasonally can help support sustainable farming.
- The narrative of ‘feeding the world’ needs to shift to ‘feeding communities’.
- Conversations about farming practices must be approached with empathy and understanding.
- There is hope for a sustainable future through collective action.
*Assets courtesy of Big Picture Ranch.
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.