Send us a text If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your passion for animals into a real career, this episode is for you. Conservation biologist Kate Sheridan joins me to share her journey and the lessons she’s learned working on the frontlines of wildlife conservation. With a heart for rhino protection, Kate is passionate about helping people find their own path into working with wildlife. We cover: - The skills that make you stand out when applying for wildlife jobs - The ongoing fight agai...
Send us a text What does it take to dedicate your career to saving wildlife? 🐾 In this episode, I sit down with Dr Stephen van Mil — a wildlife veterinarian, entrepreneur, and TV personality — to uncover the passion, challenges, and big-picture vision behind his work. We dive into: ⭕Why Stephen does what he does, and what keeps him motivated in the face of tough challenges ⭕What makes a veterinary team truly great — and why collaboration matters more than ever ⭕The fascinating story of how h...
Send us a text What makes a story truly unforgettable? In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda French—author of The Last Crocodile Hunter and who plays a part in SE Queensland koala management—who has spent years working alongside Bob Irwin and sharing stories that inspire action for nature. We dive into: 🌿 What it was like working closely with Bob Irwin 📖 How to craft and tell a great story 🌏 Amanda’s journey across Australia and the world working with wildlife 💡 A life-changing moment that s...
Send us a text ✈️ A Heart in Two Worlds: Vet Life and African Fiction with Johanna Squires This week, I’m joined by Johanna Squires—a veterinarian whose career has taken her far beyond the clinic walls. As the owner of her own veterinary practice, Johanna has been able to combine her passion for animals with her love for travel, flying to rural communities to provide essential care, including neutering domestic animals in remote areas for the sake of wildlife. In this episode, we chat about...
Send us a text Right out of high school, Monique Bast did something bold—she started her own wildlife business. While most were still figuring out what to study, Monique was booking shows, wrangling reptiles, and building a brand from the ground up. In this episode, Monique shares what drove her to take the leap so early, how she built her business, and what it’s really like working with animals for a living. She opens up about the challenges too—including a moment where she nearly walked awa...
Send us a text In this fun episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of Amy Wild, a passionate wildlife enthusiast from Perth, Western Australia. With a background in biological sciences and a flair for performance, Amy has seamlessly blended her love for reptiles, education, and entertainment to create a unique career path. Amy Wild Adventures What You'll Learn: Starting and Running a Wildlife Business: Discover how Amy transformed her passion into a thriving enterprise, offering mobil...
Send us a text In this episode, we delve into the hidden impacts of our roadways with award-winning conservation journalist Ben Goldfarb. Drawing from his acclaimed book Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, Ben sheds light on the often-overlooked field of road ecology. He discusses how roads disrupt wildlife migration, contribute to habitat fragmentation, and lead to countless animal fatalities daily. Ben also shares his personal journey into wildlife conservation,...
Send us a text What does it take to run a reptile park from scratch—with no prior zoo experience? In this episode, we sit down with Pete Child, the passionate founder behind the Canberra Reptile Zoo, to find out. Pete shares his remarkable journey of building a hands-on wildlife attraction, the ups and downs of managing a reptile-focused zoo, and how he juggles that with running a pet and goods store. You'll hear stories from behind the scenes, the unique challenges of caring for reptiles, an...
Send us a text In this episode, we dive beneath the surface—literally—with renowned underwater videographer and photographer Elisabeth Lauwerys. From the mesmerizing world of fluorescent diving to the misunderstood nature of sharks, Elisabeth shares stories and insights from years spent filming the ocean’s most elusive and captivating creatures. We chat about: • The art and challenges of underwater videography and photography • What it’s like to experience fluorescent diving • Why sharks des...
Send us a text 🎙️ Survival, Adventure, and Beyond: A Deep Dive with Outback Mike | Michael Atkinson | Ep.22 From Air Force pilot to full-time adventurer, filmmaker, and survival expert—Michael Atkinson, better known as Outback Mike, joins us for an unforgettable episode that’s equal parts grit, wisdom, and wild storytelling. We dive into Mike’s incredible journey, from navigating life-threatening situations in the wilderness to building a successful YouTube channel around raw, real, and oft...
Send us a text Have you ever wondered how to tame a bird or build trust with a raptor? In this episode of the Working With Wildlife Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of falcons, hawks, flying foxes, Australian wildlife; and we learn about our guests awesome journey. Tessa Mckilliget, an expert in free-flight bird shows, shares insights on bonding with your bird, training techniques, and what it takes to work with these incredible predators. We’ll also discuss the role of birds of pre...
Send us a text How does the legal system impact wildlife conservation, and what’s it like to be a tour guide in the wild? In this episode, I talk with Matt Cornish about his unique journey balancing law and wildlife guiding. We discuss wildlife crime, conservation challenges, and his firsthand experiences leading tours through some of nature’s most incredible places. Matt also shares tips on how you can get started as a wildlife tour guide and explore the world’s natural wonders for a living....
Send us a text Veterinarian Danny Cilento joins us to share his journey as a locum vet, diving into the highs and lows of the profession. We tackle big questions: What’s the reality of vet burnout? How does faith shape resilience in such a demanding career? What does it take to run a successful veterinary practice? Danny opens up about the mental and emotional toll of vet work, the unexpected lessons from working in different clinics, and his biggest advice for aspiring vets. Whether you're i...
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Tamielle Brunt, a leading expert on platypus conservation, to discuss the alarming challenges facing one of Australia’s most iconic species. With habitat loss, climate change, and human impact threatening the future of the platypus, Dr. Tam sheds light on the dire situation—but also shares hopeful stories of conservation efforts and what we can do to make a difference and guides us through a little of how she is able to wo...
Send us a text In this enlightening episode, I sit down with Ganyah Gold, an online influencer in the wildlife careers space, and biologist whose inspiring journey and impactful work demonstrate how a career in biology can be life-changing. From fieldwork in remote locations to being a part of groundbreaking research and conservation efforts, Ganyah shares personal stories and professional insights that reveal the transformative power of the field of biology. Whether you're considering ...
Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of unban ecology with my special guest Darryl Jones, a pioneering figure in the field and a well known Australian author renowned for his work on birds. Join us as we explore the transformative power of unban ecology, its impact on urban environments, and the moments that lead Darryl to make some of the most important decisions in his life. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or a curious nature enthusiast, this conversation...
Send us a text Join us for an electrifying chat with a fearless wildlife enthusiast and online influencer known for catching venomous snakes, his love for creation, and his faith. We explore how he turns his passion for wildlife into a profitable online venture, sharing insider tips on monetizing content while staying true to one’s mission. We go deeper on some of the personal struggles he has faced, and the role of faith in his adventurous life. From a humble passion to working with th...
Send us a text 🦘🌿 Lets dive into the world of Australian fauna and learn about the life's journey our special guest, Mick Bender, founder of Wildlife Unleashed, a fast growing wildlife demonstration company! In this episode, we uncover the intriguing journey of building a business centered around showcasing Australia's unique wildlife. We explore challenges and triumphs, entrepreneurship, and the vision that Mick and his wife Adel have for Wildlife Unleashed and beyond. Join us for an informa...
Send us a text In this entertaining podcast episode, Dr. Christina Zdenek sheds some light on the fascinating worlds of environmental science, snake venom, and grant acquisition (amongst other things). She shares also her own personal journey from one side of the world to another, and how she has made her life's passion, her life's goal. Join us for an insightful conversation that uncovers the connections between these diverse fields and highlights the importance of scientific explorati...
Send us a text Being a domestics vet is one thing, being an exotics vet is another; but being an exotics vet in addition to owning and running one of Brisbanes well known vets its another ball game! In this conversation we get a look at the man who does just that. Josh Linas heads a team of highly skilled vets and crew members that day in and day out work with with a range of different exotic animals, both domestic and wild, which have unknown problems that need solving. Not only does h...