The Eco Enthusiast

In September 2021 Richard Muscat boarded a train to Cambridge to join Carbon13’s second Climate Tech cohort. Carbon13 is a venture builder whose stated mission is to create high-growth startups that each have the potential of reducing carbon emissions by ten million tons annually. He was excited. He was finally ‘officially’ turning his talents towards a meaningful task — fighting climate change. So why did he quit his mission less than a year later? Today we learn about the shipping industry, degrowth, and the idea of embracing our imagination to dream of future beyond capitalism.

Today's episode is a bit different. It's me being interviewed by Shane O'Conner from Charter For Compassion, a non-profit focused on cultivating a more compassionate world. We speak about my children's book THE GIRL WHO BECAME A TREE. A lovely easy-going conversation about reconnection, transformation, and trees. Amazon Spain THE GIRL WHO BECAME A TREE Amazon AUS THE GIRL WHO BECAME A TREE

William Grönlund is the spokesperson for the Swedish climate-focused political party The Climate Alliance. He is also an active member of Fathers Rebellion. William has dedicated his life to ensuring a future for his four children in this defining decade. In today's episode, we discuss his journey to climate action and what might be stopping other fathers, and parents, from stepping up to fight for their kids.

Ellie Jackson is the visionary behind the bestselling children's book series, Wild Tribe Heroes. Through captivating tales of courage and compassion, Ellie's books shine a light on pressing environmental issues such as plastic pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. Meet The Wild Tribe Heroes! Duffy the Sea Turtle, Marli the Puffin, Nelson the Whale, Buddy the Orangutan, Hunter the Polar Bear, Sunny the Koala, and Ziggy the Bee—all beloved characters in Ellie's remarkable series. These endearing creatures embark on journeys of resilience and hope, inspiring young readers to become champions of change. Ellie's books are more than just stories—they're powerful tools for education and empowerment. Each tale gently imparts valuable lessons about environmental stewardship in a positive and inspiring manner, complete with happy endings and practical ideas for a sustainable future. As the bestselling children's book series on plastic pollution, climate change, and habitat loss, Wild Tribe Heroes has captured the hearts of readers around the world. From Duffy's courageous journey to Marli's spirited adventures, Ellie's stories resonate with children and adults alike, sparking conversations and igniting a passion for protecting our planet. Join Ellie and The Wild Tribe Heroes on an extraordinary adventure—one where imagination meets activism, and every page is a testament to the power of storytelling in creating positive change. From her humble beginnings in Cornwall to receiving accolades from environmental icons like Sir David Attenborough and Prince Charles, Ellie's journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Get ready to be inspired, uplifted, and empowered as Ellie shares her insights, experiences, and hopes for a world where every child becomes a steward of our precious planet. Tune in as we celebrate the power of storytelling to ignite change and join the movement to create a healthier, more vibrant world for all. Don't miss this captivating conversation with Ellie Jackson, where the magic of storytelling meets the urgency of environmental action.

Thea Ormerod is the honorary President of ARRCC, the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change. With a background in social work and a heart dedicated to making a difference, Thea has been instrumental in bringing together voices from diverse faith communities to tackle the urgent issue of climate change. Not only is Thea a leading figure in climate activism, but she's also deeply committed to addressing global poverty and inequality. As a grandmother of eleven grandchildren, she carries with her a profound sense of responsibility to leave behind a world that is sustainable and just for future generations. Join us as we delve into Thea's journey, her insights on faith-driven climate action, and how we can all play a part in creating a better world. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, passion, and hope. www.theecoenthusiastpodcast.com

Dr. Weli achieved global recognition when his innovative interpretation of kangaroo behavior won the prestigious "Dance Your PhD" competition. Picture this: drag queens, twerking, ballerinas, a classical Indian dancer, all woven together in a four-minute masterpiece titled "Kangaroo Time." It's a celebration of diversity and a brilliant translation of complex research into the universal language of dance and music. Dr. Weli took on the challenge of communicating scientific findings through performing arts with gusto, and his victory speaks volumes about the power of creativity in science communication. Join us as we delve into Dr. Weli's journey from studying animal behavior at the Australian National University to becoming a sensation in the scientific and artistic communities. We'll explore his groundbreaking research on kangaroo dynamics and how it reflects our own human experience of diversity and conformity. Beyond his scientific endeavors, Dr. Weli's story is one of courage and self-discovery. A queer immigrant from Brazil, he brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, drawing parallels between his own journey and the behaviors he studies. And there's more to Dr. Weli's story than just science. Since leaving academia, he's embarked on a new path as a singer-songwriter, infusing his music with the same passion and creativity that earned him acclaim in the scientific world. So, tune in as we uncover the magic behind Dr. Weli's "joyful madness" and explore the boundless possibilities when science meets art. This is an episode you won't want to miss. KANGAROO TIME www.theecoenthusiastpodcast.com

Dan Sherrard-Smith is the founder of MotherTree. MotherTree makes it easy for individuals and value-led organisations to reduce their financial carbon emissions and save money by focusing on pensions, banks, and bills.Before launching MotherTree, Dan was on the founding team of Look After My Bills, which saved the UK public £127m and achieved the best-ever deal on Dragons’ Den.MotherTrees aim is to shift £1bn into the green economy by 2025. They currently represent £290m and have found routes to reduce 26,000t in carbon emissions. www.theecoenthusiastpodcast.com

EV enthusiast Ben Newman has owned three Telsas and was the NSW rep for the Tesla Owners Club of NSW, Australia. Today's episode debunks a mountain of EV myths that have possibly been slowing down the way forward to a cleaner future. https://www.tesla.com/about https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6T9xIeZTds www.theecoenthusiastpodcast.com

Zack Theony of ⁠After Always Apparel⁠ is a fashion designer and social media influencer making a difference. Transforming thrifted items into what has been described as high fashion meets loungewear he reminds his followers that there is no away to throw our things and that our clothes can and should always say something about our luminous spirit.

Miriam Wanjiku is a climate mum and fierce protector of nature. After being inspired by her daughter's environmental activism, Miriam has come alive and out of her shell through a deep care for her homeland of Kenya. Miriam and her daughter Ramina are among a growing number of active citizens who refuse to sit by as global north corporations poison one of their continent's greatest lakes. www.theecoenthusiastpodcast.com