36: I would restore Britain as a RAINFOREST NATION: Merlin Hanbury-Tenison

Unpacking Modern Capitalism: From Gaza to Global InequalityA deeply introspective and wide-ranging discussion, that explores environmentalism, climate activism, and critiques of capitalism. The conversation dives into the historical context of the Gaza conflict, the inherent authoritarianism in capitalism, and systemic inequalities it inevitably creates positing that socialism is now true democracy. Grace asserts the need for community and collective action being necessary to support the revolutionary change, the challenges faced by those pushing against the status quo, and the potential for revolutionary change fuelled by grassroots movements. Links & Mentions:https://graceblakeley.co.uk/Ellen Mieksin Wood PrizeTony Benn - The Benn LegacyPierre Bourdieu (Habitus)Salvador Allende: The U.S. set the stage for a coup in Chile.Pinochet's human rights abuses.✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

In this emergency bonus episode, host Gillian Burke interviews Gail Lynch, an organiser and member of the newly formed Citizens' Arrest Network, discussing the urgent need for new citizen-led approach, based on corporate accountability, to the poor systemic response to climate  and ecological crises. Gail shares her personal journey, the motivations behind the Citizens' Arrest Network, and the legal mechanisms they employ to hold corporations accountable for environmental and societal harm. The discussion emphasises the importance of collective action, community engagement, and the role of individuals in driving systemic change.takeawaysGail emphasises the urgency of addressing climate change and corporate accountability.The Citizens' Arrest Network is a campaign focused on legal mechanisms to hold corporations accountable.Gail's personal journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental justice and activism.The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement in driving change.Gail discusses the legal framework surrounding citizens' arrests and its implications for activism.The need for systemic change is a recurring theme throughout the discussion.Gail encourages listeners to recognize their power as individuals and as a collective.The role of media in shaping public perception of activism is critically examined.Gail's background and experiences inform her approach to activism and community organizing.The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to get involved and support the movement.Linkshttps://www.citizensarrestnetwork.org/Legal Dossier: https://www.citizensarrestnetwork.org/suspects/alastair-cochran✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

In this conversation, Merlin Hanbury-Tenison shares his multifaceted journey as a veteran, conservationist, and author. He discusses his new book 'Our Oaken Bones', which explores themes of healing through nature, personal trauma, and the interconnectedness of mental health, the environment and a new 'agrorainforestry' model that holds a 1,000 year vision of restoring Britain as a rainforest nation. Merlin reflects on his experiences in Afghanistan, the healing power of the Atlantic temperate rainforest, and emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to land use that incorporates food production and the role of apex predators in maintaining ecological balance. The discussion culminates in a vision for a future where humans reclaim their role as stewards of nature, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and addressing issues of male mental health.TakeawaysMerlin identifies as an author, conservationist, and veteran.His book 'Our Oaken Bones' captures personal and environmental healing.Healing can be achieved through nature and personal experiences.Merlin's experiences in Afghanistan shaped his understanding of trauma.The rainforest plays a crucial role in healing both land and people.Moral injury is a significant issue for veterans and needs more attention.Agro-rainforestry can provide sustainable solutions for farming and conservation.Apex predators are essential for maintaining ecological balance.Humans must see themselves as part of nature, not separate from it.Conversations around positive male identity are crucial for mental health.SoundscapeThe sounds at the end of this podcast are field recordings from Cabilla and were recorded by Dr Antti Sakari Saario and Dr D Ferrett, researchers in sound and the environment at the Academy of Music and Theatre Arts, Falmouth University. These sounds feature as part of the audiobook version of Our Oaken Bones and have also been used in an immersive soundscape composition by Antti for a 360-film entitled Gans’n Dhama Wedhen - In the Company of the Mother Tree (2025), directed by Adam Laity and narrated by D Ferrett.MentionsThousand Year TrustCabilla CornwallHouse of Hackney #WeAreNature campagin NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

In this episode of 'If I Ruled the World', host Gillian Burke explores the human cost of conservation with Survival International's Asia Campaigns Director, Sophie Grig.  Conventional 'fortress conservation' models, rooted in colonial ideals of wilderness areas emptied of people, fenced off and defended, with brute force if necessary.  Systemic human rights abuses, mass displacements of tribal peoples, and land grabs are the result.Links & mentionsSurvival International: For tribes, for nature, for all humanityBlack2Nature: Helping inner-city VME children connect with natureWWF accused of deceit, cover-ups and dishonesty, 2021Protecting Human Rights in International Conservation, US Congressional Hearing, 2021WWF Funds Guards Who Have Tortured And Killed People, Buzzfeed News 2019Conservation Refugees: When conservation means kicking people outHow Conservation Contributes to the Displacement of Indigenous Peoplehttps://worldostats.com/protected-land-areas-by-country-global-comparison-2025/ NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

Today’s episode is a little bit different... where Gillian gets to the guest on a podcast swap with The Starlit Stories podcast.  Artist and podcaster, Stella Marie for holds space for Gillian to rediscover her voice as she transitions towards quiet quitting the system (see previous episode).  In this episode, the tone and direction is set for the coming year on If I Ruled the World.A huge thank you to Stella for permission to use this interview.  Do check out The Starlit Stories podcast (see links below).Keywords:system change, social justice, environmental justice, decolonisation, empathy, natureMentions:Starlit Stories Podcast with host Stella MarieStella Marie on InstagramThe Man Engine in Cornwall"Three companies responsible for more carbon emmissions than all UK households" from 2021 Tortoise Responsibility 100 Index: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/2021/04/22/sensemaker-210422Kwame Toure quote:From "Radical Discipleship: The Pitfalls of Liberalism""When [the liberal] seeks to talk about change, he always confronts the oppressed rather than the oppressor. He does not seek to influence the oppressor, he seeks to influence the oppressed. He says to the oppressed, time and time again, “You don’t need guns, you are moving too fast, you are too radical, you are too extreme.” He never says to the oppressor, “You are too extreme in your treatment of the oppressed,” because he is powerless among the oppressors, even if he is part of that group; but he has influence, or, at least, he is more powerful than the oppressed, and he enjoys this power by always cautioning, condemning, or certainly trying to direct and lead the movements of the oppressed." NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

In this episode of 'If I Ruled the World', Gillian Burke reflects on her journey as a podcaster, the challenges of navigating current events, and the importance of storytelling. She discusses the upcoming guests, indigenous rights, and social justice. Gillian also shares her personal experiences stepping away from the BBC and her commitment to fostering change through her podcast. The episode emphasizes the need for understanding extremism, the true cost of development, and the power of diversity in recognizing our shared humanity.Takeaways ·      Storytelling is an intimate act, akin to confiding in a friend.·      The podcast aims to explore how to make the world fairer.·      Current events create chaos that can overwhelm our understanding.·      Upcoming guests will bring diverse perspectives on important issues.·      Indigenous voices are vital in the fight for conservation.·      The rights of nature are becoming increasingly recognized.·      Personal journeys can lead to significant professional changes.·      Understanding extremism requires deep reflection on our values.·      Diversity allows us to see our shared humanity and learn from each other.Keywordsstorytelling, system change, extremism, diversity, conservation, indigenous voices, personal journey, social justice, current eventsMentionsThe Ezra Klein Show: Don’t Believe HimThousand Year Trust (Merlin Hanbury-Tennyson)Survival International (Sophie Grig)Dr Anjana KhatwaSuch Stuff by Michael MorpurgoKatie Tregidden – Making Design CircularGary’s Econonics (Gary Stevenson)Philippe SandsBrené Brown **CORRECTION: Brene has spent past 20/30 years studying**Dr. Gabor MatéThe Myth of Willie “Whoopass” Johnson NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!As 2024 draws to a close, If I Ruled the World flips the script. Producer Sam takes the reins, interviewing Gillian! Together, they reflect on a groundbreaking year of system-change conversations. From capitalism’s unraveling to the wisdom of nature and indigenous perspectives, Gillian shares her biggest takeaways, lessons learned, and hopes for the future.And the moment you’ve all been waiting for… Gillian reveals what she would do if she ruled the world and why she believes re-establishing the global rule of law and rethinking efficiency are key to building a more just and sustainable future.Key Moments:The Year in ReviewGillian shares her top highlights, including insights from Simeon Rose (Faith in Nature), Leah Penniman (Soul Fire Farm), and Cory DoctorowPenny Drop MomentsLessons from our range of guests this year on centering nature in decision-making, challenging late-stage capitalism, and understanding indigenous perspectives.System Change & the Rule of LawGillian’s manifesto for re-establishing the rule of international law, inspired by Jojo Mehta (Stop Ecocide International) and lessons from Gaza and the global stage.Efficiency vs. ResilienceWhy inefficiency, modelled by nature’s beaver dams, could hold the key to a more sustainable and adaptable future.A Vision for 2025Gillian’s plans for the future of the podcast, the global system, and her reflections on why truth and equity must lead the charge.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Follow GillianInstagramWebsiteMentions & ResourcesCarbon DividendsSeth Godin - This is StrategyThe Shock Doctrine - Naomi KleinThe Social NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

What would the world look like if nature really had a voice? Welcome back to 'If I Ruled the World' featuring a unique perspective on leadership and decision-making from Simeon Rose, the Creative Director at Faith in Nature. In this episode, we explore how this pioneering company became the first globally to make nature the boss, setting a groundbreaking precedent in corporate governance.Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!Key Points Discussed:Journey of Faith in Nature: Delve into the company’s evolution from a natural beauty product brand to an environmental advocate within the corporate sector.Influence of Rights of Nature: Insight into how global movements and legal recognitions, like New Zealand’s Whanganui River, shaped their innovative approach.Implementation and Challenges: Learn about the practical aspects and the transformative impacts of incorporating nature into the company’s board.Broader Implications: Consider the potential ripple effects of this model across various industries and global policies.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Simeon Rose - Nature on the BoardFollow GillianInstagramWebsiteMentions & ResourcesFaith in NatureRights for RiversRights of NatureEarth Law CenterEarth Species ProjectHouse of HackneyBetter Business Network NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!If you don’t know what ‘Artivism’ means and why it matters, you’re about to! Today, we explore the intricate melodies of change through the perspective of Sam Lee, a Mercury Prize-nominated musician and passionate nature activist. Sam shares his unique journey from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil wilderness, harmonising folk traditions with urgent environmental advocacy. Hear how Sam is advocating for systemic change and a deeper connection to our natural roots.Episode Highlights:Musical Innovation Meets Nature: Sam Lee discusses how his music, interwoven with the sounds of nature, invites listeners to reconnect with the environment in profound ways.The Role of Folklore in Environmental Activism: Sam emphasises the importance of folklore and traditional songs in shaping cultural identity and environmental consciousness.Advocating for the Right to Roam: Sam details his efforts to expand public access to private lands in England, promoting a deeper engagement with the natural world.Vision for a Sustainable Future: From intensive farming reforms to educational transformations, Sam outlines his vision for integrating nature more deeply into our lives and policies.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Sam LeeFollow GillianInstagramWebsiteMentions & ResourcesRight to Roam - Advocacy group promoting public access to private land.Earth Percent - An initiative by Brian Eno aiming to address climate change through the music industry.Julia's Bicycle - A charity focusing on environmental sustainability in the arts.Doughnut Economics - A NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!Brace yourselves! In this episode, we delve into the dynamics behind runaway consumption and throwaway culture with Cory Doctorow, writer, journalist, and a fervent advocate for digital rights and freedoms. From examining monopolies in the tech industry to exploring the mechanisms of corporate influence over our digital lives, Cory shares his insights on how we might rebalance power and stop everything getting worse for the greater good of societyEpisode HighlightsMonopolies and Corporate Power: Cory discusses the pervasive nature of monopolies in the tech industry and their impact on innovation and consumer freedom.Antitrust and Regulation: Analysis of the current state of antitrust laws and the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks to dismantle corporate monopolies.The Concept of "Enshittification": Cory introduces and explains the term "enshittification," which he coined to describe the degradation of services and erosion of user rights in monopolistic ecosystems.The Fight for Digital Rights: The conversation shifts to the necessity for a collective push towards preserving digital rights and privacy in an increasingly surveilled and controlled digital landscape.Empowering Technological Alternatives: Discussing potential systemic changes that could support sustainable and ethical technological development.A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Cory DoctorowFollow GillianInstagramWebsiteMentions & ResourcesWhat 'Orwellian' Really Means - N NATURE WRITING WORKSHOP this autumn 🍂 🪶🧡📆  8 Nov - Fri 14 Nov 2025🛏️ Book  at www.grantarmshotel.comHope to see you there!✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email [email protected] 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening