Entertaining, innovative, and inspiring – everything you need in a nature and climate podcast! Our pilot season was ranked #3 on the Apple Podcast charts (USA Nature category). Each episode is an engaging narrative with expert commentary and captivating storytelling in a concise 25 minute package.
Want even more nature content? Our sister podcast, Nature’s Archive, has over 100 interviews with naturalists, authors, biologists, and more! Guests include Dr. Doug Tallamy, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, Dr. Marshall Shepherd, and many more!
Recent Episodes
#11 – Critical Mast: The Hidden Cycle of Oak Abundance
Acorn masting, a mysterious phenomenon where oak trees alternate between massive and minimal acorn production, reveals nature’s intricate cycles. In this episode, explore its impact on ecology, especially for the Acorn Woodpecker. Embrace the movement to reconnect with nature—plant oaks and safeguard biodiversity while challenging the status quo in environmental stewardship!
Angry Activist, Rural Landowner: Finding Common Ground for Nature with Griff Griffith
In a world overwhelmed by ecological despair, Griff Griffith’s transformation from angry activist to nuanced communicator sheds light on the importance of connecting with diverse perspectives. His encounter with an unassuming farmer challenged him to abandon his preachy ways and instead embrace collaboration, proving that true environmental revival requires bridging divides. Dandelions, he argues, symbolize…
#10 – Can We Save Cats and Wildlife? The Outdoor Cat Dilemma.
Cats are independent, lovable, and endlessly entertaining—but with nearly 100 million outdoor cats in the USA alone, they become one of the most devastating forces against wildlife, killing billions of animals each year. At the same time, outdoor cats face harsh, short lives filled with disease, injury, and danger. So how do we balance our…
#9: Invaders in Your Yard: The Hidden Dangers of Invasive Species
There’s an invasion happening right under our noses—one that’s likely reached your own backyard. You may have even unknowingly played a part in it.
This is the spread of invasive plants, animals, and fungi. Once removed from their native habitats, these species reproduce rapidly, disrupting ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, and even endangering our food, health, and…
#8 – Saving A Valley: How Coyote Valley Inspires Conservation
Coyote Valley’s saga reveals the clash between corporate ambition and environmental preservation. Steve Jobs’ vision fell short, yet the valley flourishes as a beacon of biodiversity and cultural heritage. This podcast ignites a rallying cry for community-driven conservation, showing listeners how to protect landscapes that they love and care for.
Jumpstart Bonus: Top 10 Favorite Species with Griff Griffith, Michelle Fullner, and Michael Hawk
Griff Griffith, Michelle Fullner, and Michael Hawk share ten of their favorite species (and what makes them so great) in this fun, conversational episode!
#7: Don’t Be a Birdnapper! (Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Help Wildlife)
Many animal lovers unwittingly harm wildlife by mistakenly intervening. Are you ready to be a true hero to distressed birds, road-crossing turtles, or newborn bunnies? Get prepared with expert advice from Jumpstart Nature.
#6: Cicadas: Unexpected Ambassadors of Biodiversity
Periodical cicadas, emerging every 13 or 17 years, play a crucial role in ecosystems. Despite being loud and numerous, they reflect nature’s abundance and biodiversity. A “double emergence” in 2024 adds interest in these incredible insects. The podcast delves into their importance of cicadas and biodiversity in general with renowned researchers and enthusiasts.
#5: Every Observation a Discovery: How iNaturalist Changes Lives and Changes Science
The iNaturalist app is revolutionizing our connection with nature by allowing users to identify and document flora and fauna. With over four million contributors and a sophisticated computer vision feature, iNaturalist has become a global community of nature enthusiasts and citizen scientists. Its impact extends far beyond identification, offering a profound journey towards understanding and…
Jumpstart Bonus: Dr. Doug Tallamy – The Nature of Oaks
Jumpstart Nature’s upcoming season is on the horizon, but in the meantime, we’re sharing a popular episode from our sister podcast Nature’s Archive featuring Dr. Doug Tallamy. Dr. Tallamy discusses the significance of oak trees and encourages small and large yard owners to consider planting them.
The Confluence of Hope and Action (Bonus Episode)
Our pilot season is over, but Griff Griffith and Michael Hawk have more great nature knowledge to share!
Today’s episode answers your questions about the Jumpstart Nature episodes we’ve already published and gives you an exciting peak into what comes next.
In fact, maybe YOU can be part of a future podcast episode? Be sure…
#4 – We Live in a 10% World: The Shocking Decline We’ve Normalized
What is “normal” or even “natural” in nature? In a world where everything is constantly changing, the human desire to define things as “normal” has broad implications on how we see the world, and how we choose to conserve it (or not conserve it!).
This desire to establish a personal “normal” leads to a quirk…
#3 – The Age of Connectivity – How Wildlife Crossings Help Animals and People
Human society is more connected than ever. But this connectivity comes at a cost – to us and to wildlife.
Beyond just “roadkill”, our road systems, lights, and noise lead to profoundly negative impacts to animals and even plants.
Experts Beth Pratt, Ben Goldfarb, and Robert Rock help to explain what’s going on.
#2 – Plant Your Birdfeeder: The Surprising Downsides of Feeding Birds
Feeding birds is a cherished nature pastime, but have you ever wondered about the impact of bird feeding? What about the recent concerns regarding disease outbreaks? And do you know where the birdseed you use comes from?
Join us to hear from expects from around the globe as they help unravel the mysteries, so you…
#1 – The Yard of the Future: How Native Plants Save Biodiversity
Without noticing, homeowners across the country have destroyed habitat covering an area the size of New England or Florida. As bad as that sounds, it actually gets worse.
But we can easily fix this problem – and it actually saves you time and money.
The help from Dr. Doug Tallamy, Mary Phillips, and Leslie Inman,…
Listen to the Jumpstart Nature Podcast Trailer!
Prepare to shatter preconceptions and debunk myths about the world around us, all while uncovering the astonishing truths hidden within nature and climate. Embark on a transformative journey with Jumpstart Nature, an innovative podcast that melds captivating storytelling with cutting-edge science.
Meet the Jumpstart Nature Podcast Team!
