Shows
Ecology Academy Podcast#53 - Unravelling the Planning and Infrastructure Bill: Craig LlewellynWelcome back to the Ecology Academy Podcast, where host Richard Dodd offers an insightful deep dive into the current hot topic - the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. In this compelling episode, joined by Craig Llewellyn from AtkinsRealis, the discussion shifts from biodiversity net gain to the intricacies of the new bill, highlighting its implications for nature conservation and ecological planning.
Craig provides a comprehensive breakdown of the bill's objectives, such as expedited housing development and strategic planning, alongside revealing its potential pitfalls, including inadequate protection for protected species. As the conversation unfolds, listeners gain invaluable perspectives on...
2025-05-0534 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#52 - Exploring Net Benefit for Biodiversity with Craig LlewellynWelcome to another insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, hosted by Richard Dodd. Join us as we delve into the world of ecology with special guest Craig Llewellyn, Associate Ecologist and Biodiversity Policy Specialist at Atkins Realis. In this first part of a two-part series, we focus on the concept of 'Net Benefit for Biodiversity' within Wales' Planning Policy. Discover how this policy aims to enhance biodiversity at a broader ecosystem level using the innovative DECCA framework.
Craig Llewellyn shares his extensive experience and insights on the ecological assessment process, comparing the Welsh net benefit approach...
2025-04-2938 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#51 - Show Me the Data: Local Environmental Record Centres with Adam RoweJoin host Richard Dodd in this enlightening episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he converses with Adam Rowe, the CEO of the South East Wales Biodiversity Centre (SEWBReC). Discover the significant role Local Environmental Record Centres (LERCs) play in the gathering, management, and dissemination of biodiversity data.
Adam shares his journey from a geography graduate to leading a key hub in biodiversity data management, emphasizing the importance of data accuracy and sharing in conservation efforts. This episode offers valuable insights for ecologists, conservationists, and anyone passionate about biodiversity. Learn about the challenges and solutions in data...
2025-03-031h 01
Ecology Academy Podcast#50 - The Life of Batman: An In-depth Conversation with Richard CromptonWelcome to the Ecology Academy podcast, where host Richard Dodd interviews Richard Crompton from Ecology On Demand. Dive into a fascinating discussion as Richard shares insights from his 26-year career in bat and ecology work, focusing on his unique consulting service dedicated to supporting fellow ecologists. Discover the intricacies of ecological licenses, the significance of staying updated with technological advancements, and the importance of hands-on training through Richard's ventures like Team Bat.
Explore Richard's ambitious project aimed at transforming a country estate into a sanctuary for bats while fostering community and employment. Learn about the upcoming tech...
2025-02-0356 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#49 - The Travelling Ecologist: Mark Roper shares tales from New Zealand and EuropeHappy New Year!
Join Richard Dodd in this episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he sits down with Mark Roper, an experienced ecologist and consultant from New Zealand, who shares his fascinating journey in the world of ecology. With over 15 years in ecological consulting, Mark discusses his transition from freshwater fish surveys to a deep passion for bat conservation, both in New Zealand and Europe.
Mark delves into the challenges and opportunities he encountered while working with bats, including the rigorous certification process in New Zealand and the hands-on experience he gained i...
2025-01-0651 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#48 - Unlocking Biodiversity Net Gain: Insights and Challenges for EcologistsJoin Richard Dodd and repeat guest Julia Baker on the final Ecology Academy podcast of 2024 as they delve into the significant legal changes surrounding biodiversity net gain in 2024. This episode explores the roles of ecologists, developers, and local authorities in implementing these new practices, focusing on both small and large-scale projects. Discover what practitioners have learned over the year, the challenges faced, and the collaborative efforts across various sectors to enhance our natural environments.
Julia shares her personal experiences and highlights the importance of early engagement in development projects. The episode also covers the need for effective...
2024-12-0246 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#47 - Exploring AI's Role in Ecology and Beyond: A Conversation with Tim Cook on becoming more AI ConfidentJoin Richard Dodd in this episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he delves into the intersection of ecology and artificial intelligence with Tim Cook, the founder of AI Confident. Tim shares insights about his company, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering organizations to make informed decisions about AI adoption, particularly those new to the technology.
The conversation explores how AI can be responsibly integrated into various sectors, including education and ecology, and addresses the ethical considerations and biases associated with AI technologies. Tim also discusses the importance of maintaining human elements in workflows and the potential...
2024-11-0454 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#46 - Overcoming Imposter SyndromeJoin host Richard Dodd in this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he delves into the topic of imposter syndrome and its impact on ecologists. After a summer hiatus, Richard returns to explore the challenges faced by professionals in the ecological field, particularly those striving for career advancement and leadership roles.
Richard shares his personal journey with imposter syndrome, discussing the common feelings of self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud. He provides valuable insights into recognizing and acknowledging these feelings, along with practical strategies to challenge negative thoughts and celebrate achievements.
2024-10-0731 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#45 - Understanding the Role of an Ecological Clerk of WorksWelcome to the Ecology Academy podcast, hosted by Richard Dodd. In this episode, we delve into the role and responsibilities of an Ecological Clerk of Works. With summer in full swing, ecologists are busy with surveys and monitoring projects across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere, this episode is packed with valuable insights for aspiring and seasoned ecologists alike.
We explore the essential duties of an Ecological Clerk of Works, including site monitoring, implementing mitigation measures, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation, and effective communication with stakeholders. Richard discusses the importance of te...
2024-05-2327 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#44 - NatureSpace Partnership and District Licensing with Sarah Garratt and Andy BuxtonIn this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, we explore the fascinating world of district licensing in ecological conservation with Sarah Garratt and Andy Buxton from NatureSpace. We delve into Sarah's contribution to NatureSpace's strategic licensing approach and Andy's role in the conceptualization of district licensing. Additionally, we discuss the importance of data in ecological research and predictive modelling's role in conserving Great Crested Newts.
We uncover the rigorous data collection process at NatureSpace and its amalgamation with species distribution modelling for newt conservation. Learn about our noteworthy strides in district licensing schemes and the remarkable...
2024-04-0157 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#43 - Great Crested Newt Surveys Using Detection Dogs, with Nikki Glover at Wessex WaterWelcome to an enthralling episode of the Ecology Academy Podcast, where host Richard Dodd is joined by special guest Nikki Glover, a Senior Ecologist at Wessex Water renowned for her innovative newt detection techniques. Our dynamic conversation delves into Nikki's essential contributions to large-scale development infrastructure projects, her diverse career path, and her unique use of detection dogs for ecological conservation.
Nikki gives a detailed account of how her passion for ecology sparked during her Animal Behaviour studies, which led her to a pivotal role in preserving the Great Crested Newt population. With her licensed Springer Spaniel...
2024-03-1840 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#42 - Diving Deep into Newt Conservation with Specialist Jon CranfieldWelcome to the Ecology Academy podcast hosted by Richard Dodd. In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Jon Cranfield, a herpetofauna specialist and director of Herpetologic Limited. Starting from his childhood passion for ecology, we journey through his extensive experience dealing with protected species and examine his commitment to ecological conservation through his role with Hampshire Isle White Amphibian and Reptile Group.
The episode unwraps in-depth talks about John's concerns on mitigation strategies, the need for innovative thinking, and biodiversity considerations. It highlights new insights into Great Crested Newt conservation and discusses different licensing...
2024-03-0455 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#41 Series Special (1) - Great Crested NewtWelcome to a special series of the Ecology Academy podcast, dedicated entirely to understanding the fascinating world of great crested newts. As spring arrives, we delve into in-depth discussions with leading experts to shed light on this unique species.
Over the upcoming weeks, we'll be presenting interviews with established authorities in the field. We start our series with John Cranfield from Herpetologic Limited, continue with Nikki Glover from Wessex Water, who is renowned for her work with detection dogs, and conclude with an insightful conversation with Sarah Garrett from NatureSpace.
This immersive series is our...
2024-03-0401 minEcology Academy Podcast#40 - Navigating Change: Adapting to New Ecological GuidanceJoin us in this informative episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, hosted by Richard Dodd, as we explore the complexities of the rapidly changing world of ecology. We delve deep into recent ecological developments, updated guidelines, new regulations, and the impact of technological advancements on the field. This episode aims to inspire listeners, whether students, professionals, or nature enthusiasts, to embrace change with a growth mindset.
Richard emphasizes resilience and the potential benefits these changes can bring to our natural environment. He also discusses practical strategies for adapting to these changes, highlighting the importance of prioritizing, identifying...
2024-02-0931 minEcology Academy Podcast#39 - Getting Recruitment Right: how to maximise your hiring power, and avoid bias***HAPPY NEW YEAR***
In the first episode of 2024 Richard talks about how to maximise getting the hire process right and how to avoid or minimise biases. In the podcast Richard outlines the following key stages:
1. Identifying the Need for a New Role
2. Creating a Detailed Job Description
3. Advertising the Role
4. Screening and Shortlisting Candidates
5. Conducting Interviews and Assessments
6. Reference Checks and Background Verification
7. Making the Offer
8. Onboarding Process
9. Probationary Period
10. Post-Probation Integration
F...
2024-01-0946 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#38 -Veteran Trees, Bat Research and Training - Jim MullhollandIn this episode Richard interviews Jim Mullholland and talks about veteran trees, bats, training, virtual Preliminary Roost Assessments (PRA's), research into veterinisation of trees and can we do better in looking for bats, plus so much more!
Jim observes that since the commencement of the Bat Tree Habitat Key project, our knowledge of tree roosting bats has increased dramatically. Despite this, standard tree surveys yield poor results (the probability of finding bats on a single visit may be as low as 5%). What can be done to improve prospects for bat surveyor and bats alike?
Jim...
2023-12-0457 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#37 - How to train your bat, with Neil Middleton - BatAbility Courses and TuitionRichard interviews Neil Middleton from BatAbility Courses and Tuition. Together they talk about bats, business and some life tips on how to deliver presentations and overcoming the fear of other people's opinions.
Bio
Neil has substantial experience in business management, consultancy, people development, training & the associated skills associated with running SME businesses. As well as being the owner & managing director of BatAbility Courses & Tuition, Neil also owns Time For Bespoke Solutions Ltd. In the past Neil was the founder & Managing Director at Echoes Ecology Ltd.
He has designed & delivered over 400 training c...
2023-11-101h 16
Ecology Academy Podcast#36 - Leadership and Management in a Small Business -Peter WhartonIn this episode Richard talks with Peter Wharton of Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultants Ltd. on the joys and challenges of leading and managing a small consultancy business.
Pete openly talks about his journey, including his education, career and mental health. The conversation discusses the importance of values, resilience and fortitude, dispelling the myth that business owners know what they are doing at all times and rugby!
Resources
Career Coaching: Discovering the Best in You: A flexible programme that will help transform your career and life! Our expert coaches and mentors provide yo...
2023-10-021h 02Ecology Academy Podcast#35 - End of Season ReviewA very short episode this month as we all take a well deserved rest after a busy survey season. Richard reflects back and thanks all our wonderful guests for spending time talking about their work and life.
Season 3 will commence in October and we are looking for guests and co-hosts for the show. If either of those interest you, then email richard@ecologyacademy.co.uk and let's start a conversation.
2023-09-0504 minEcology Academy Podcast#34 - How to Build Skills and Confidence for Life: Coaching and Mentoring with Richard DoddHow to Build Skills and Confidence for Life: Coaching and Mentoring
In this episode, our host, Richard Dodd, delves into the world of coaching and mentoring, exploring their definitions, roles, applications, and how to choose between the two. We also share success stories and discuss potential challenges in these relationships. Finally, we provide tips on how to find a suitable coach or mentor.
Talking Points:
1. Defining Coaching and Mentoring: We kick off the episode by discussing what coaching and mentoring mean and how they are typically implemented. This segment provides a cle...
2023-08-0738 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#33 - The Role of an In-house Ecologist: interview with Rosie Pope, Foster + PartnersThe Role of an In-house Ecologist
In this interview Richard talks with Rosie about her role as an in-house ecologist. Together they discuss the differences between the role of working as a 'clean' consultant ecologist and those of the in-house 'expert' within a company or organisation. The challenges of working in a creative and visual way, as opposed to the more text-based reporting.
Rosie Pope
Rosie Pope is the first in-house Ecologist at Foster + Partners. Having worked in consultancy previously, Rosie speaks about the challenges involved in carving out this new role. She discusses the wa...
2023-07-0344 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#32 - Measuring What Matters: an insight into data analysis with Jez Smith of Eco-ExploreRichard talks on today's show with Jeremy Smith on why we should take data seriously. On the show Jez tells us why we need to think and ask more questions to help solve real life problems such as biodiversity loss.
Jez Smith
Jez is a research ecologist for the British Trust for Ornithology using data analysis to help understand the trends in bird demography.
He is also one of the directors at Eco-Explore a company founded by ecologists who provide training in Data Analysis to consultant ecologists, NGO’s, PhD students, cons...
2023-06-051h 05
Ecology Academy Podcast#31 - Internships and Innovation - interview with Suzi Cross, MD of the forward thinking EcosulisIn this episode Richard interviews the highly engaging and enigmatic Suzi Cross, Managing Director for Ecosulis.
About Suzi
Suzi Cross has been Managing Director of Ecosulis Ltd for the last few years, having first joined the company in 2004 as a Senior Administrator. She specialises in Quality, Health and Safety, Employee Engagement and Wellbeing and has a passion for the outdoors. Running a values-lead organisation is something she considers a dream job because the people she brings on board share those values and the company’s vision to rewild half the planet by 2050.
About Ecosulis
Eco...
2023-05-0152 minEcology Academy Podcast#30 - A Chat with ChatGPT - is AI going to replace us as ecologists?In this episode, Richard 'talks' to ChatGPT. He talks about what he's been using ChatGPT for and what it could be used for.
What is ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence language model developed by OpenAI. It is designed to process natural language input and generate responses in natural language. It has been trained on a vast corpus of text data, which allows it to understand a wide range of topics and converse with users on a variety of subjects. ChatGPT can be used for a variety of applications, including chatbots, language translation, text summarization, and more.
2023-04-0323 minEcology Academy Podcast#29 - Dual Careers: interview with Misho Baxendale (Wildwood Ecology) on a career as both an ecologist and arboriculturalistOn today's podcast Richard discusses the opportunities and challenges of a dual-discipline career with his colleague, Misho Baxendale.
Misho is a dual-qualified environmental consultant, working across both ecology and arboricultural disciplines working at Wildwood Ecology, based in Stroud. Misho openly discusses the skills needed in both disciplines including complimentary and crossover skills (e.g. field surveys, data capture and analysis), and specialist skills (e.g. AutoCAD, tree climbing and tree surveys for planning and development).
The conversation also includes why Misho works with Wildwood Ecology in developing arboricultural services and the opportunities and challenges faced at the...
2023-03-1057 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#28 - Exploitation of early career ecologists: Interview with Paul Whitby, Ecology Co-opCareer exploitation refers to situations in which an employer or work environment takes advantage of an employee for their own benefit, often at the expense of the employee's well-being and long-term career prospects. This can take many forms, such as paying employees less than they deserve, not providing adequate opportunities for growth and development, or assigning them work that is outside of their job description or skill set.
Furthermore, career exploitation can lead to feelings of burnout, job dissatisfaction, and a lack of motivation to continue working in a particular field. It can also limit an employee's...
2023-02-1558 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#27 - Taking Action on Your Goals and How to be a Better ManagerWe all need to make plans, but more importantly take action in implementing them!
This episode is not aimed to help you set goals, but instead it is focused on how to be a better manager. Whether you are a first line manager or a senior executive, we all need the tools to help us support ourselves and others.
If you're just starting out, you can download a copy of our Skills Wheel and Guidance Notes which will help you to make a start in recognising your areas of strength as well as those areas t...
2023-01-0932 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#26 - What is Biodiversity Net Gain and the Biodiversity Metric? Interview with Dr Nick White, Natural EnglandDuring this episode, host Richard Dodd interviews Dr Nicholas White, Principal Adviser on Net Gain for Natural England, and discusses what skills we need as ecologists to help deliver Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). We get to hear Nick's insights into the Environment Act and the delivery of BNG, the newly updated biodiversity metric, standards, and guidance, as well as marine net gain!
Our Guest
Nick works across Government (at both a national and local level), and with developers, NGOs, and academia to advance policy, practice, and standards around net gain (including biodiversity, natural capital, and...
2022-12-0554 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#25 - Career Guidance with Tilly Tilbrook: great advice from application through to interviewThis month’s episode is from a discussion which was recorded as part of a live Q&A session for students at Nottingham Trent University during the delivery of our six-week Career Accelerator for Aspiring Ecological Consultants course for 2nd and final year students studying for a BSc in Wildlife Conservation.
Throughout the six weeks, students gained a thorough understanding of; the role of an ecological consultant and ecological consultancy, planning policy and legislation relevant to their work as an ecological consultant, considerations of what to put into a quote that would go to a client, preliminary ro...
2022-11-071h 00
Ecology Academy Podcast#24 - UK Habitat Classification System and the Digital Ecologist: interview with Paul Losse, Salix EcologyWelcome to the first episode in a brand new season of the Ecology Academy podcast!
In this month's episode we focus on delivering everything you need to know about the UK Habitat Classification System (UKHab) and why, as a digital ecologist, it matters.
Our Guest
Our guest on this episode is Paul Losse of Salix Ecology.
Paul worked as a Conservation Officer and Senior Specialist (land management and conservation) for English Nature and Natural England for 10 years. His roles have included providing advice to land owners on ecology, wildlife legislation, conservation l...
2022-10-0340 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#23 - Season Finale - Join us for a NEW season and FREE Skills Wheel TrainingWe are taking a well earned break in September before springing back with a brand new season in October 2022.
Thank you to all of you for listening throughout the past year (and a bit). It's time for our annual appraisal... so what did you find of most value this season and would like us to do more of in the future? What did not really resonate with you? We would love to hear from you!
You can send your feedback to us at hello@ecologyacademy.co.uk or by posting a message on one of...
2022-09-0507 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#22 - Big Data Analysis and the BTO Acoustics Pipeline: interview with lead scientist Stuart NewsonA not to be missed interview with Stuart Newson, lead scientist for the BTO Acoustic Pipeline, which brings cutting-edge sound identification of bats and other nocturnal wildlife to your desktop.
During the interview, Richard discusses Stuart's love for big data analysis and problem solving and his work with the BTO. We talk about his career profile as a researcher and how his desire to identify and understand what bats were in and around Norwich set him up to launch a county wide programme for the whole of Norfolk and led him to develop the BTO Acoustic Pipeline.
2022-08-011h 21
Ecology Academy Podcast#21 - One Degree of Separation - an interview with Rachel Smith and Nina Baranduin from Nottingham Trent UniversityRichard Dodd interviews two students (Rachel Smith and Nina Baranduin) who have just completed their second year Ecology and Conservation degree course at Nottingham Trent University.
During the interview we discuss their individual reasons and decision to go to university, their experience of studying under Covid-19 restrictions, placement year opportunities and life after studies.
Richard met with students whilst delivering a six-week career accelerator programme at Nottingham Trent University between May and July 2022. Students participating on the course were either completing their second or final year at NTU.
2022-07-0430 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#20 - How NOT to quit your job: what ecologists and their employers should consider to help them stay or retain great peopleHow NOT to quit your job: what you should consider before you leave and what managers should consider helping you stay.
Quitting is hard, but for many of us we will do it at least once as part of our career journey. But how do you do it? There is no real guidebook or company policy or procedures, and there are few people you could talk with to discuss how to quit.
In this month's podcast Richard draws upon his 30+ years of experience, both as an employee and employer, to give an honest op...
2022-06-0654 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#19 - Fungi, zombies and the apocalypse - interview with Emma WilliamsRecorded in March 2022, Richard gets to go outside and records the passionate voice of Emma Williams, the mycological advocate.
During the interview Emma introduces us to a few species we found during our time out in a damp woodland near Caerphilly, South Wales, but more importantly about why we should take fungi seriously. We get to talk about the lack of mycological surveys in planning and development surveys for ecology, why fungi matter, why we should not be burning brash and also why zombie fungi are so cool!
Contact Emma via:
LinkedIn: https...
2022-05-011h 27
Ecology Academy Podcast#18 - Personal Protected Species Survey Licences: The LOWDOWNRichard Dodd hosts a panel discussion between UK protected species licence holders including:
Ash Harris - Principal Ecologist / Director at Ecological Services Ltd (Torfaen)
Grace Dooley - Head of Ecology at Environment Systems Ltd (Ceredigion)
Tilly Tilbrook - Director at Integrated Ecological Solutions Ltd. (Bristol)
Sarah Parkin - Ecologist at SOP Ecology and Caseworker at Scottish Natural Heritage (Dumfies & Galloway)
Josh Courtley - Ecologist with Arbtech (Warwickshire)
Josh Styles - Ecologist with Atkins and volunteer at Chester Zoo (Cheshire)
Emma Scotney - Ecologist with South West Lakes Trust (Devon)
Sue Searle - Ecology Training UK (Devon)
Claire Munn...
2022-04-041h 14
Ecology Academy Podcast#17 - Beer, Biodiversity and B Corps - interview with Greg Pilley of Stroud Brewery#BehindtheB
To celebrate B Corp month Richard gets to discuss many of his passions including beer, biodiversity and, of course, businesses as a force for good.
Take away messages include why choosing to buy from and work with B Corps is good for you and the planet and how Stroud Brewery have invested so heavily into brewing organically which benefits biodiversity and people.
Greg gets to showcase soils, sustainability and how to drink responsibly farmed beer.
To find out more about the good work that Stroud Brewery does, visit their website...
2022-03-0736 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#16 -For the LOVE of trees - interview with Neil Davies of TR33Richard interviews Neil Davies, Consultancy Manager with TR33 Limited, an environmental company that provides full tree, grounds and estate maintenance services.
Neil is passionate about trees and woodland and their function in both the built and natural environment. Drawing on 25 years in the industry, his aim is to provide pragmatic expert advice to the highest quality. He’s keen on sharing knowledge and inspiring younger folk about the joys of nature as seen from his many LinkedIn posts and YouTube videos!
Take away messages:
You don't need a degree to become an arborist; be...
2022-02-0745 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#15 -GOOD habits to make positive change in 2022A Happy New Year to you all. In this first episode of 2022 Richard Dodd talks about how identifying good and bad habits can help you achieve more in 2022.
Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/atomic-habits-the-life-changing-million-copy-1-bestseller/9781847941831?aid=2999
The Myth of Multitasking by Dave Crenshaw: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-myth-of-multitasking/9781642505054?aid=2999
Find out more about our wonderful training academy: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
Get Social! Follow us on Twitter or Facebook.
2022-01-0534 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#14 GOAL, set and match! End of season podcast with Richard DoddThe final episode of 2021 and Richard reflects back on the guests we have chatted with over the past six months! In this episode Richard talks about the top 5 downloads of the year and what to expect in 2022, before offering up advice on how to achieve your one BIG goal for 2022.
Thank you to you all for listening - this podcast really is for you, so if you want to help shape it's direction or collaborate in anyway, then please do get in touch with richard@ecologyacademy.co.uk with your own insights and suggestions to make this...
2021-12-2130 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#13 - The Dog Detectors - interview with Rachael Flavell, Paws for ConservationHaving discovered a passion and fascination for the world of dogs and detection in her previous role as a dog handler and trainer at a leading international detection dog company, Rachael Flavell embarked on a new journey to focus primarily on conservation and the use of dogs to assist in ecological surveys and to help fight wildlife crime. Paws For Conservation was founded by Rachael in June 2020.
Paws For Conservation now has multiple, highly experienced fully trained conservation dogs, all of which have been hugely successful within the field having participated in hundreds of surveys throughout the...
2021-12-1355 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#12 Botanists, plant STD‘s and pond ooze - interview with Joshua Styles, Botanical Specialist and Science CommunicatorJoshua is a pioneering young ecologist and science communicator with a background in botany & conservation, and a 1st class degree in BSc Ecology. Now venturing into the world of entertainment and running his own YouTube channel, in addition to appearing on well-known shows such as BBC Springwatch, the ONE Show, BBC News, Sky News, Channel 4 News, and Atlas Obscura, Joshua Styles is someone every aspiring ecologist should be following.
2021-12-0840 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#11 - Making beautiful homes for nature; interview with Faye Clifton, from Green & Blue design companyBorn in Cornwall in 2005, fellow B Corp, Green & Blue, are leading the way in designing beautiful, stylish products, that help wildlife.
Here we talk to Faye Clifton, Director, about her passion for this innovative company and how to plan, build and manage beautiful housing and gardens that support the environment.
Recorded 24 November 2021
2021-11-3042 min
Ecology Academy Podcast#10 Career Changing - interview with Wildwood Ecologists Ian Weller and David WithingtonRichard Dodd talks to two members of the Wildwood team, Ian Weller and David Withington, whom have both completely changed to a new career in ecology. They discuss their respective journeys, driving forces and experience to date.
2021-11-221h 06Ecology Academy Podcast#09 Ecosystems, biodiversity net gain and tango dancing - interview with Tom Butterworth, Technical Director for Biodiversity at WSPRichard interviews Tom Butterworth, who is the Technical Director for Biodiversity, leading the work on Biodiversity Net Gain for WSP, a leading global environmental engineering company.
2021-11-011h 01
Ecology Academy Podcast#08 - 30 years of CIEEM - interview with Sally Hayns, Chief ExecutiveSally Hayns, Chief Executive at the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) talks about why this professional body was established, what it has achieved over the last 30 years and why Sally has no plans to step down anytime soon.
Our conversation includes their career framework document, mentor scheme, protecting the title of 'ecologist' and diversity and inclusion.
Recorded on 01 September 2021 by Richard Dodd.
2021-10-041h 09
Ecology Academy Podcast#07 What makes a great Senior Ecologist - Ivi Szaboova, Principal Ecologist at Wildwood EcologyDuring this 'fireside chat' with Ivi Szaboova, Principal Ecologist at Wildwood Ecology, we discuss the role of a senior member of the ecology team - skills, qualities, traits and behaviours, as well as how Ivi and her team have coped since March 2020 when Covid-19 sent us into the first lockdown.
Ivi's journey to ecology is both inspiration and inspiring. Her takeaway messages include; finding a mentor and being a mentor to others, not compromising on your own values and starting your career as a generalist and specialise later once you have found your 'calling'.
Interviewed...
2021-09-061h 17
Ecology Academy Podcast#06 Every site matters - interview with Marcus Kohler of MKA EcologyMKA Ecology works in many areas, from large scale restoration and rewilding projects to working with local councils on their site management. Their main work is at the interface of development and sustainability, undertaking a range of projects and always under the mantra that 'every site matters'.
Recorded 10 May 2021.
2021-08-021h 05Ecology Academy Podcast#05 Building brand and culture - interview with Rob Oates of ArbtechPodcast interview with Rob Oates, Director and El Capitan of Arbtech Ecological and Arboricultural Consultancy.
Website: https://arbtech.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertoatesdotcom/
Recorded 02 October, 2020.
2021-07-0558 minEcology Academy Podcast#04 Making the case for a career as an ecological contractor and Biodiversity Net Gain - interview with Julia Baker of Balfour BeattyInterview with Julia Baker, Biodiversity Technical Specialist at Balfour Beatty; one of the major infrastructure contractors in the UK.
Julia has designed and delivered Biodiversity Net Gain for a variety of projects including large and small scale, rural and urban. Julia is the leading author of the UK’s Good Practice Principles on Biodiversity Net Gain and runs professional training on Biodiversity metrics. She is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Oxford.
2021-06-241h 05
Ecology Academy Podcast#03 From graduate to ecologist - with Jake JonesInterview with Jake Jones, who discusses his early career journey as a graduate from Cardiff University to gaining a permanent full time position with Wardell Armstrong in Cardiff during a global pandemic. The challenges and opportunities. Mindset and skillset developed along the way.
Recorded 09 October 2020. Interview with Richard Dodd.
2021-06-2455 minEcology Academy Podcast#02 Welcome to the Ecology Academy PodcastRichard Dodd introduces the podcast and what you can expect from the next couple of months as we delve into the wonderful world of ecology. Send your podcast suggestions to hello@ecologyacademy.co.uk
2021-06-2405 minEcology Academy Podcast#01 The Ecology Academy - TrailerThe Ecology Academy podcast is a show where we get to talk and learn about all things ecological, including interviews with top ecologists (both employers and employees), those working with ecologists, and also aspiring and inspiring career-seeking individuals setting out to make a difference.
The show aims to provide you with insights, advice, and inspiration to help you succeed and excel as an effective ecologist and to make a real difference to our natural environment.
2021-06-2400 min
Born From Nature with Monty SharmaEP8: All Mushrooms Are Magic! With guest Madi from Samford Valley MushroomsToday we have your local mushroom Farmer Madi from Samford Valley Mushrooms who runs a family owned business, working hard at producing fungi in the natural environment of Samford Valley in South East Queensland.
In this episode we dive into conversation on sustainable food production, our favourite medicinal mushrooms, tinctures and how mushrooms are going to play a pivotal role in supporting healing in our bodies and minds!
Timo Mendez: @organiccultura
Paul Stamets: @paulstamets
Ecology Academy: @ecologyacademy
Fungi Academy: @fungiacademy
Silvan Fey: @mycocreative
Lala: @weaving...
2020-08-041h 12