In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke sits down with Laurie Cummins, the Acting Deputy and Education Director at GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Laurie shares her incredible journey from Michigan to GRACE, where she now plays a crucial role in helping the team on the ground rescue, rehabilitate, and protect the critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas. The conversation explores GRACE's innovative three-pillar approach to conservation, which includes rewilding gorillas, protecting forest habitats, and engaging local communities. Laurie also discusses the organization's groundbreaking work amidst the challenges posed by the civil unrest in the region and highlights the importance of community-driven conservation efforts. Tune in to learn about the remarkable progress being made to save these majestic great apes and how GRACE is setting new standards for conservation worldwide.

00:00 Introduction to Grauer's Gorillas 00:41 Meet Laurie Cummins from GRACE 02:41 Laurie's Journey into Conservation 09:53 Understanding Grauer's Gorillas 13:55 Community-Based Conservation at GRACE 22:06 Challenges and Success Stories 43:52 Rewilding Gorillas: From Trauma to Triumph 45:28 Lulingu's Heartwarming Journey 46:16 Integrating Rescued Gorillas into Groups 48:03 The Goal of Rewilding Grauer's Gorillas 48:55 Hands-Off Care and Gorilla Health 51:19 The Community-Driven Corridor Project 01:01:10 Navigating Civil Unrest and Conservation 01:07:53 Future Goals and Personal Motivation 01:13:04 Advice and How to Help

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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Join Brooke for a journey to Nepal's remote Dolpo region, where conservationist Tshiring Lhamu Lama is revolutionizing snow leopard conservation. From witnessing cubs being harmed during her research to founding the women-led Snow Leopard Journey, Tshiring shares her inspiring story of transforming human-wildlife conflict into sustainable coexistence. Discover how she's empowering local communities through innovative tourism, training youth as wildlife guides, and proving that protecting these ethereal cats can create opportunities rather than obstacles. This episode offers a powerful glimpse into the future of conservation, where ancient traditions meet modern solutions, and where saving a species means uplifting the communities who share its home.

00:00 Introduction 00:40 Meet Tshiring Lama: A Conservation Pioneer 02:43 From Childhood to Conservationist 08:31 The Impact of Caterpillar Fungus Harvesting 15:25 Challenges and Solutions in Snow Leopard Conservation 21:31 Innovative Approaches to Coexistence 27:49 Starting Snow Leopard Treks 28:19 Convincing the Community 29:00 Learning from Ladakh 30:19 Training Local Youth 32:51 Challenges and Strategies 34:47 Snow Leopard Tourism Impact 36:36 Upcoming Film: Snow Leopard Sisters 39:16 Personal Struggles and Triumphs 42:22 Balancing Motherhood and Conservation 47:26 Final Thoughts and Message

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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Join us in a compelling exploration of island conservation efforts. Featuring insights from Coral Wolf, Conservation Science Program Manager at Island Conservation, we delve into the critical work of removing invasive species to restore island and marine ecosystems. Discover personal stories from field biologists, the impact of seabird recolonization, and the holistic benefits of projects like the Island Ocean Connection Challenge Campaign. Uncover how these initiatives enhance biodiversity, connect terrestrial and marine environments, and engage local communities. Tune in for an exhilarating snorkel adventure in the Galapagos, and learn how you can support global conservation efforts. [Originally aired February, 2023]

00:00 Introduction and Episode Update 00:47 Women in Conservation Science Series 01:16 Meet Coral Wolf: Journey to Island Conservation 02:23 The Impact of Invasive Species on Islands 05:04 Island Restoration Success Stories 13:20 The Island-Marine Connection 18:43 Harnessing Island-Ocean Connections 30:35 Future of Island and Marine Restoration 33:41 Stakeholders and Their Roles 35:56 Island Restoration Efforts in Palau 37:30 Challenges and Opportunities in Island Conservation 42:30 Personal Insights and Experiences 47:29 Balancing Parenthood and Fieldwork 52:59 Advice for Aspiring Conservationists 54:10 Galapagos Islands: A Magical Experience 58:28 Conclusion and Ways to Support

Read full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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