The Birdman's Beat: Bird Conservation with John Wanyoike

We’re joined by Dr. Yvonne Githiora — a leading conservation scientist and climate change researcher working at the heart of Africa’s landscapes. From driving community-led research to shaping global REDD+ projects at Wildlife Works, Yvonne brings over a decade of experience connecting biodiversity, climate, and people. She's not just a scientist — she’s a mentor, policy influencer, and public voice for nature and justice. Get ready for an inspiring dive into climate action, community resilience, and the power of knowledge in motion. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

Meet John Wanyoike Waitara, a raptor ornithologist, conservationist, and birdwatching specialist. From the highlands of Molo to the skies of Kenya, John is on a mission to protect endangered vultures, engage communities, and inspire a new generation of nature stewards. Join us as we explore the skies, the science, and the stories behind Kenya’s incredible birdlife.

Meet Nkateko Mzimba, a powerhouse protector of wildlife and community. At just 32, Nkateko has become a symbol of resilience and leadership. Starting her journey in 2014 with Transfrontier Africa NPC and the Department of Fisheries, Forestry, and the Environment, she trained with Pro-Track Anti-Poaching Academy and became one of the original members of the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit—South Africa’s trailblazing all-female ranger team. From braving rhino poaching incursions to rising as a Sergeant, MediaLiaison and Driver, Nkateko, now leads foot and vehicle patrols in Olifants West Nature Reserve, helping keep rhinos safe, without ever carrying a weapon. Listen in and be inspired💚🎙️

In this new episode, I'm talking with Mary Muthoni, a bold voice in environmental justice and governance, international climate delegate, and co-founder of EcoEngage. From COP28 to grassroots forums, she brings powerful stories, sharp insights, and dynamic dialogues that inspire action. Whether you're a changemaker, policymaker, or passionate citizen, this is your space to engage, learn, and lead for nature. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️

In our second special #WorldEnvironmentDay Podcast edition, I'm chatting with Davina Ngei, Programme Manager at the FlipFlopi Project, an East African movement with a mission to end single-use plastic and ensure all other plastics are part of a circular economy. In this Podcast, we talk through her upbringing and education, the theoretical and evidence-based approach of her work, and what she is currently pursuing in Cape Town. We also dive into the FlipFlopi, the FlipFlopi ndogo - the World's first recycled plastic sailing dhow, building sustainable communities, circular economy, education and outreach. Enjoy and be inspired to take action💚🎙️

This #WorldEnvironmentDay, I'm delighted to be talking with Rohan Neel Shah, a 17-year-old 11th-grade student based in Nairobi, Kenya. Growing up in a country where nature, wildlife, and the outdoors are part of everyday life has deeply influenced his worldview. Since the age of two, his parents have taken him to Kenya’s national parks, instilling in him a profound love and passion for nature and conservation. We talk through his upbringing, love for photography, Jeffrey Wu's mentorship, and the sort of values that drive his craft. We also dive into Plastiki Rafiki, a non-profit student-led club at the International School of Kenya that is turning plastics into a resource while providing livelihoods for local people through creative manufacturing and product design. Enjoy and be inspired to take action.💚🎙️

Join us as we track the inspiring path of Dr. Robert Aruho — wildlife veterinarian, conservation leader, and head of Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. From translocating endangered species across Africa to leading the Mountain Bongo reintroduction in Kenya, Dr. Aruho shares his passion for preserving biodiversity, empowering communities, and keeping conservation wild at heart. Enjoy💚🎙️

Today’s guest is Victoria Wanjohi — a wildlife conservation scientist, award-winning filmmaker, and storytelling force based in Nairobi, Kenya. With over a decade of experience across Africa, Victoria uses the power of narrative to connect communities, especially youth, to the heart of conservation and climate action. As the visionary behind Biophilic Conversations and Nyika Silika Productions, and the Director of Storytelling at the TonyWild Foundation, she’s transforming how the world hears African conservation stories. Tune in as we explore how tradition, science, and storytelling can drive real impact for people and the planet. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️

In this podcast, I'm chatting with Siana Phillips, the head of Impact at Ocean Sole, here in Kenya. She shares her incredible journey, growing up in Samburu County in Kenya where she developed her creative mind and love for community. That path later led her to Ocean Sole where she is using her skills and experiences in grassroots conservation to community empowerment and education. Listen in and hear more about Ocean Sole, a Kenyan Organization turning flip-flops in art while working hand in hand with the local people to achieve their mission in Education, Community, and Conservation. Enjoy and be inspired to take action💚🎙️

A survivor of female genital mutilation (FGM), Sereti Nabaala turned her personal experience into a mission to protect and empower young girls. In 2019, while still in university, she founded the Matasaru Ntoyie Pastoralist Foundation, which has since supported the education of FGM and forced marriage survivors, provided menstrual hygiene supplies to over 2,000 girls, and empowered young mothers with skills and reproductive health knowledge. With seven years of experience in grassroots activism, policy work, and community engagement, Sereti is a powerful voice for gender equality and a symbol of resilience. Today, she joins us to share her journey, the challenges she has faced, and her vision for a future where every girl has the right to education, choice, and dignity. EnjoyEnjoy🎙️💚