The RegenNarration Podcast
The RegenNarration podcast features the stories of a generation that is changing the story, enabling the regeneration of life on this planet. It’s ad-free, freely available and entirely listener-supported. You'll hear from high profile and grass-roots leaders from around Australia and the world, on how they're changing the stories we live by, and the systems we create in their mold. Along with often very personal tales of how they themselves are changing, in the places they call home. With award-winning host, Anthony James.
S9 E252 · Wed, April 02, 2025
The Land Whisperer, Part 4: Patrick MacManaway's most impactful stories & next venture
Welcome to the fourth and final part of this special on-location recording with the 'land whisperer', Patrick MacManaway, in Burlington, Vermont. ICYMI, the full episode was played more than most in its early days, but given it was a little over two and a half hours in length, I also wanted to offer it in distinct parts, for those of you who prefer to listen to it that way. There have been plenty of takers too, so I'm glad this suited a bunch of you. We pick it up here where part 3 ended, at the Farmhouse that replaced McDonald's downtown. Then we head back to Patrick's garden, for some of the punchline, you might say - as he shares some of the most impactful stories from his work around the world. These include a look at the changing face of how academia is treating the work, and how the world at large is opening to it also. And we close with news of his next collaboration with Australian legend in regenerative agriculture, Terry McCosker . Before Patrick, himself, takes us out with a tune. Title image by Anthony James. For more behind the scenes, and to help keep the show on the road, become a supporting listener by one or more of the options below. Thanks for listening. Music: The RegenNarration playlist (music chosen by my guests). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennarration.buzzsprout.com/2091922/support
Bonus · Mon, March 31, 2025
The Land Whisperer, Part 3: From the woodland labryrinth to the Farmhouse that replaced McDonald's
Welcome to part 3 of this special on-location recording with the 'land whisperer', Patrick MacManaway, in Burlington, Vermont. ICYMI, the full episode was played more than most in its early days, but given it was a little over two and a half hours in length, I also wanted to offer it in distinct parts, for those of you who prefer to listen to it that way. There have been plenty of takers too, so I'm glad this suited a bunch of you. We pick it up here where part 2 ended, as we wound up at the public stone circle in Burlington, Vermont, to head to a woodland labyrinth that again Patrick was pivotal in creating. En route, we hear some of the great story of what's happening on the land on which the labyrinth has been set up. And on arrival, we venture into the woods, exploring the relevance and power of the labyrinth over time, and how else we can restore our internal compass in the world. Then we head out for one more stop - a surprise venture to the farm-to-table enterprise that replaced McDonald's downtown. The fourth and final part with Patrick, back in the garden at his place for a grand finale of sorts, will be out in a couple of days. Title image by Anthony James. For more behind the scenes, and to help keep the show on the road, become a supporting listener by one or more of the options below. Thanks for listening. Music: The RegenNarration playlist (music chosen by my guests). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit <a href='https:/
Bonus · Sat, March 29, 2025
The Land Whisperer, Part 2: At the stone circle in Burlington
We've forgotten the earth is alive, and it's killing us. That was one of the title prospects my podcast host served up for today's release. Another was 'reimagining our connection to land'. They're fair hints at part 2 of this special on-location recording with the 'land whisperer', Patrick MacManaway. ICYMI, the full episode was played more than most in its early days, but given it was a little over two and a half hours in length, I also wanted to offer it in distinct parts, for those of you who prefer to listen to it that way. I'm glad to see that, over the last couple of days, many of you were. So we resume here where part 1 left off, arriving at the public stone circle that Patrick was pivotal in creating, by Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont's most populous city. It's formally called the Burlington Earth Clock . Though you'll hear far beyond the formal presentation here. We pick it up with Patrick's own ancestral and other connections to this part of the world, going on to clarify the legend of the sanctioning of his father's work by the Pope. Then we delve into the millennia-long story of stone circles, engage with this one together, and hear about some of the changes that have happened since it was created. And we close with the extraordinary experience that shifted Patrick's focus to agriculture, before heading to our next stop. That'll be part 3, out in a couple of days. Title image by Anthony James. For more behind the scenes, and to help keep the show on the road, become a supporting listener below. Find more: To hear about the transformative insight gained at Stonehenge by Lynne Kelly, co-author of Songlines, and my guest on the third most played episode on this podcast, tune into ep.92 . Lynne's co-author and curator of the incredible Songlines exhibition, Aboriginal / Irish woman Margo Neale, was on next for ep.93 . Music: The RegenNarration playlist (music chosen by my guests). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href
Bonus · Wed, March 26, 2025
The Land Whisperer, Part 1: From the garden to the stone circle
Last week's episode featured a special on-location recording with the land whisperer, Patrick MacManaway. It has been played more than most in its first week, but given it was a little over two and a half hours in length, I also wanted to offer it in distinct parts, for those of you who prefer to listen to it that way. Perhaps 40 minutes or so fits into your usual listening window better, or maybe that length will just give you time to digest the conversation. If you've already listened to the whole thing (thank you!), maybe this will make it easier to revisit certain parts. As always, feel free to let me know. This is Part 1 then, from my intro through to when we head to the stone circle. We start in Patrick's garden, before jumping in the car. Roadworks sent us in all kinds of directions, so we got some time to talk about how this Scot ended up in Vermont, how he came to be doing what he's doing, and what that is exactly. There are some profound ancestral connections, including the growing legend around his father's healing hands on the battle field. And others that led to us meeting on this day. For more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener below. Music: Hours, by Patrick Sebag (from Artlist). Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. The RegenNarration playlist (music chosen by my guests). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S9 E252 · Wed, March 19, 2025
The Land Whisperer, Patrick MacManaway: The spiritualist doctor behind a global wave of regeneration
Welcome to a very special and unique episode. Previous guest on this podcast, Terry McCosker, co-founded RCS Australia 35 years ago. Fellow Australian legend and podcast guest, Charles Massy , is best-selling author of Call of the Reed Warbler. In that book he wrote, “When I look back over the rise of regenerative agriculture in Australia, I see at the forefront Terry and Pam McCosker and their RCS organisation. Today it remains a world leader in the field.” In light of that, I titled the first episode with Terry ‘ Behind the Greatest Regenerative Agriculture Movement in Australia’ . Well, as I got to know Terry better over the years, I started to hear more and more about a bloke named Patrick MacManaway , who Terry had been working with since 2010. And Charles later shared with me his ‘missing chapter’ from Reed Warbler, the one deemed a little too ‘edgy’ to include at the time. Patrick features significantly in that chapter, along with some now famous stories of his father. So as the years went by, I became increasingly interested in learning about the man alongside the man behind the movement. All the more, knowing that Patrick’s extraordinary influence is far from limited to Australia. Born in Scotland to pioneering parents, when Patrick realised he shared his father’s gifts, he also shared his medical training, before his calling deepened and spread around the UK, onto North America, and beyond. I caught up with Patrick at his home near Burlington, Vermont, to wander through life stories, gardens, projects, and new endeavour with Terry. Title slide by Anthony James. For more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener below. Music: Hours, by Patrick Sebag (from Artlist). Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Patrick MacManaway. The RegenNarration playlist . Find more: Ep.136 - Terry & wife Pam. Ep.92 - Songlines. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate dire
S9 E251 · Wed, March 12, 2025
Paul Hawken: New book out & on tour now
The world isn't broken, it's trying to save you. That's where this one starts. But first, a couple of announcements. One, the launch of a new series on the podcast called Vignettes from the Source. And two, 5x New York Times best-selling author and great friend of the podcast, Paul Hawken, has his extraordinary new book, Carbon: The Book of Life , out now on pre-sale (with a few copies for paid subscribers). He’s also launching and chatting about the book at a few events in California next week . Leading off the new series then, is what I’ve found to be an unforgettable last part of my conversation with Paul about the book last year, when we were bathed in sunshine in his home garden back in California. Listening back to it though, it could just as well have been recorded today. You’ll see what I mean. So today features the last half hour or so of our conversation. In the first part, we talk about the new book, some profoundly wise words on the nature of story, and Paul's unflinching belief in people. Then the conversation shifts a gear, when I ask Paul about his experience with MLK Jr in Alabama as a teen, where he says in the book he witnessed a form of spirituality that really impacted him. I had been moving to wind up our conversation, but this last 15 minutes or so is straight from the source. It all culminates in a five-minute ‘world premiere’ reading of the last passage of the new book. If all you do is listen to that … Of course, if you’re inspired to listen to more, or to revisit the rest of this conversation, you’ll find it at episode 204 . For now, I hope you enjoy this. Chapter markers & transcript . Conversation recorded on 27 April 2024. Intro recorded today. Title slide: Paul Hawken (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website of ep.204 linked above, and for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: Synergy, by TURPAC; One Love, by Roy Young; Circle of Life, by Letra (all sourced on Artlist). The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading
S9 E250 · Tue, March 04, 2025
Dan Kittredge: On the Cusp of a Nutrition-Led Revolution?
Welcome to a special 250th episode of the podcast! Are we on the cusp of a revolution in the nutritional content of our food? One that could change everything? Dan Kittredge thinks so. And he’s about to launch his next global effort to that end. When you get a chance to speak with the man who’s been called the global steward of nutrient density in food, the man who developed the very term ‘nutrient density’, you don’t necessarily expect it to go as big and broad as this conversation did. But then maybe should I have. Dan Kittredge is living one heck of a life, and as founder of the Bionutrient Food Association , goes as far as to say they're on the cusp of achieving their mission - that a revolution in the nutritional content of our food could happen within the next five years. It will be driven by farmers being rewarded for producing quality food, and set in tow enormous benefits for human and planetary health – from the physical to the meta-physical, and back again. Indeed, this has been the nature of Dan’s journey, wandering from his roots with pioneering organic farming parents, across all sorts of intellectual and spiritual disciplines, experiencing the limitations of each, before arriving at an epiphany. Now he’s increasingly invited to engage with communities all around the world. And this month he launches a new program to spur the vision along. Those of us who won’t get to attend the program will get a chance to hear how it goes too, at the next major RegenWA Conference in Perth in September. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 14 February 2025. Music: Dan singing. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Together Road, by Paper Planes (from Artlist). Regeneration, by Amelia Barden . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Find more: My conversation with Fred Provenza . And with Manchan Magan , igniting some of my ancestral roots. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <
S9 E249 · Tue, February 18, 2025
249. Journey to a Future Council: Damon Gameau (‘world’s best movie director’) on his new film
‘School of Rock’ meets ‘An Inconvenient Truth’. Damon Gameau, director of award-winning, chart-topping documentary films 2040 , and That Sugar Film , takes eight kids on the ultimate school excursion: a road trip across Europe to challenge powerful leaders and find solutions to our greatest challenges. That’s how the bill reads for Damon’s new feature documentary film, Future Council . The group’s mission was to take the conversation from the streets, into the boardrooms of some of the world’s largest polluters and most influential companies. Astoundingly, it resulted in the children forming a ‘Future Council’ to advise and influence those companies. It also resulted in a transformative personal story for Damon. One of the most popular guests on this podcast, and a former award-winning actor, Damon had hit a self-described ‘swamp of sadness’. But as this film emerged, so did he. Some of this story isn’t quite ready for public consumption. But some of it, you’ll hear here. Along with some wonderful behind the scenes stuff, moments of revealing tension in the film, the challenge to even get it released, what else is going to happen as the film is released globally this year, and some amazing early reactions - including being invited to screen it at the UN. We talk soon after that took place, which also happened to coincide with the screening of the Kachana Station story on Australian Story late last year (now nearing 1m views). So we start with that. And we close with a rousing tune from Future Council’s soundtrack. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 4 November 2024. Title slide: The Future Council with Damon Gameau. For more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: We are the Kids , by Bunny Racket . Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Circle of Life, by Letra (from Artlist). The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all
S9 E248 · Tue, February 11, 2025
248. Turning Problems into Solutions Across Australia & the Americas: With Mike DiGirolamo for Mongabay
Last month I had the honour of being a guest on the podcast of the legendary independent US media outlet Mongabay . It was a unique conversation, with US-born host Mike DiGirolamo based in Sydney, and me over here in the Americas, talking about some highlights from the seven months me and the family spent travelling across the USA last year, and relating it back to the seven years we’d travelled around Australia with the podcast before that. Mike produced a unique patch up too, interspersing our conversation with enlightening editorial additions, and some material from a past episode that was wonderful to hear again. Mongabay kindly invited me to release the episode on The RegenNarration too, so here it is, in full - a fascinating 'reverse' cross-continental exchange for the moment at hand. You’ll hear some highlights from last year’s US journey, including more personal stories behind the journey, more detail on the hope we derived from listening to people on the ground in that election year, and the exchange I had with Allan Savory in Colorado. And all while Mike and I were inspiring thoughts in each other from our respective experiences as we went. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded mid-December 2024. Title slide: Mike DiGirolamo. For more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: Intro music by Jeremiah Johnson . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Find more: Hear more on the Haggerty’s early engagement with First Nations & how this is playing out on the farm now . Ep.102 with Bruno Dann on Nyul Nyul Country. The new Substack . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a h
S9 E247 · Tue, February 04, 2025
247. Celebrating GROUNDED Festival: Behind the scenes with Matthew Evans & Sadie Chrestman
Welcome to a new year and new series of The RegenNarration! You might remember me talking last year with prominent author, documentary maker and farmer at Fat Pig Farm , Matthew Evans, in the lead up to the new festival he’s founded back home in Australia, called GROUNDED : the Food and Soil Festival . Well, that festival happened in early December, and a couple of weeks later I got back online with Matthew to talk about what happened, how it happened, and if it might happen again. And hearing how his partner Sadie’s initial reaction to the festival was something like ‘wtf?’ only made me happier that she had accepted my invitation too. Aside from the fact that I’ve wanted to talk to her in her own right on this podcast for ages. (I don’t know that Matthew and Sadie have been on many podcasts together, so maybe I can even claim an exclusive!) This conversation felt a little different. You'll hear this couple’s customary candour, humour and insight, but also an acute dose of exhaustion and elation. And it ends fittingly, in that sense, with a moving moment and tune from the festival. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 18 December 2024. Title slide: Sadie & Matthew (sourced here ). See more photos on the episode website, and for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: My Mother, The Mountain, by Claire Anne Taylor . Intro music by Jeremiah Johnson . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Find more: The event with Charles Massy & the Pollocks that became ep.16. ( Ep.20 features John Hewson with friend, and subscriber, James Tonson hosting.) Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=C2
S9 E246 · Thu, January 30, 2025
246. Launching a Substack: The stories behind & between the podcasts
Time to take a punt this year! I've just launched a Substack . Essentially, after 25 years in international and community development, and nearly a decade creating TheRegenNarration podcast, I began to feel something missing – the stories between the stories. The ones that don’t get on the podcast. And the ones that connect it all up - the themes, the people, the places. I started to wonder if writing some of these stories would be fun and useful. All the more after hearing Rebecca Solnit affirm how vital they continue to be in shaping our sense of reality, agency and possibility (out of the LA fires). So here’s a little introduction to the what, why and how of it. Including how subscriptions will work through the Substack, alongside Patreon and Buzzsprout. You can also read about it on my launch post on Substack. Where you can also find my first article – a sort of foundation piece - out yesterday, from the ancient Mayan cities in northern Guatemala. All will be embedded with a little latent love of photography, and some tunes from time to time. Putting thesocial back in media. So if you fancy some of that alongside your podcast, you can subscribe on Substack here - free or paid. I hope you’ll join me there! And standby for the new series of The RegenNarration podcast next week. For more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener or Substack subscriber via the links below. Recorded 29 January 2025 in Antigua, Guatemala. Title slide: AJ recording this episode (pic: Olivia Cheng). With thanks to you early Substack subscribers, and of course you enduring Patreon and Substack subscribers, and other donating supporters. None of this could happen without you. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subsc
S9 E245 · Tue, January 28, 2025
245. Cultural Economies at the Greatest Rock Art Gallery in the World, with Clinton Walker (in full)
Clinton Walker is a Ngarluma/Yindjibarndi man and Traditional Custodian of Murujuga (or Burrup Peninsula), on the north-west coast of Australia. You might recall my conversations with archaeologist Peter Veth and the co-authors of Songlines, Lynne Kelly and Margo Neale . They all related back to this place – where the Songlines start, as Clinton puts it. So as my family and I headed south from the Kimberley at the end of 2021, Clinton and I met up to record a yarn for the Clean State podcast. That was a shorter snappier format. But on this particular hot summer morning, with so much at stake here right now, and so much to appreciate about what he’s up to, Clinton and I settled in for an extended chat. Most of it became ep.109, still in the top 20 most listened to on this podcast. But today, for the first time, is our conversation in full. Murujuga houses the largest rock art collection in the world – around one million petroglyphs, some dating back about 40,000 years. The World Heritage nomination for this place is a shoe-in, unless it’s jeopardised by current industry expansion plans. All this remains in play today, including the alternate vision Clinton puts forward, as a former technician with a mining company here, who now runs a highly successful business called Ngurrangga Tours . Part of this episode was originally released as the last of the Clean State podcast. You can access the old Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page (below). For more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded 13 December 2021. Title slide: Clinton Walker (from his website). For more photos by AJ, head here . With thanks to the CCWA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoi
S9 E244 · Sat, January 25, 2025
244. The First State to End Native Forest Logging, with Jess Beckerling (in full)
Jess Beckerling was Campaign Director of the WA Forest Alliance (WAFA) when we had this conversation (she’s currently put all aside to stand at the 2025 WA state election ). Jess is a highly respected figure in the southern reaches of Western Australia, by both those who would traditionally have prioritised conservation, and those who might not have. I spoke with Jess back in July 2021 for the Clean State podcast. At the time, WAFA was seizing the opportunity it sensed to finally end native forest logging in WA. With the comprehensive and poetically conceived Forests for Life Plan in hand, WAFA had been showing how we can stop bleeding finances, forests, farmlands and communities, and back in the growing suite of ecologically and economically beneficial industries. Come September, just two months after our conversation, the WA government agreed – and in an Australian first announced the end of native forest logging in WA. That end arrived at the start of 2024. This is our conversation in full for the first time (previously having been restricted to a shorter episode on Clean State, and an excerpt of that on The RegenNarration). Then I’ve patched in Jess’s media statement from Parliament House on the dramatic day of the government’s announcement (a few minutes long), along with some of her comments. Part of this episode was originally released as episode 8 of a series of 9 episodes for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of WA. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. The Clean State Plan is on the episode web page below. For more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded 13.7.2021 & outside WA Parliament on 8.9.2021. Title slide: Jess Beckerling (supplied). With thanks to the CCWA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: A Forests Dream, by Cloudjumper, sourced from the Free Music Archive . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, av
S9 E243 · Wed, January 22, 2025
243. The AgZero 2030 Journey: Simon Wallwork & Cindy Stevens on a growing agriculture-led movement
Simon Wallwork and Cindy Stevens live with their three kids on a farm in Corrigin, in WA’s wheatbelt. In 2019 they joined a group of other producers to found AgZero2030 , an agriculture-led movement progressing positive action on climate. Their goal? That agriculture achieves net zero emissions by 2030, and the drawdown of emissions after that. In other words, that agriculture go from being a key contributor to global warming and its increasingly catastrophic effects, to being a key contributor to reversing it, and regenerating ecosystems and economies everywhere. And they’re finding a way to connect with people and politics across the board, including First Nations knowledge and enterprise , to achieve it. There was a bit of wind about on this day, but we took cover among the trees, grappled with mic changes, and got through mostly unscathed! Which was just as well, as this turned out to be a very personal conversation about the origins of AgZero2030, and a prescient one through to the present day, with an uncanny exchange on the trajectory of insurance in a warming world. This episode was originally released as episode seven of a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. To hear the rest of the Clean State series, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page below. And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded at Kings Park, Perth / Boorloo on 11 March 2021. Title slide: Simon & Cindy (supplied). With thanks to the CCWA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Eden is Lost, by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining t
S9 E242 · Mon, January 20, 2025
242. The Insulation Revolution: Stephen King on the ‘simple’ social enterprise model that inspired a state
Stephen King is the founder, CEO and Head Installer of the Australian Insulation Foundation of WA (AIFWA). While working in his insulation business, Stephen found social housing tenants were desperately in need of insulation, but had no means of getting it. So he set up a charity, added a little premium to his main service, and provided housing insulation for social housing tenants free of charge. One such resident is Maria Novac – a single mum with a family who unexpectedly found herself in need of social housing, and landed in a neglected hot box. Maria can’t thank Stephen enough for the difference it’s made to their lives. And they’re not alone. And while the flow on benefits are enormous, from health to climate to education and more, perhaps the greatest benefit is what it shows is possible if government were to back in a plan to retrofit all 45,000 social houses in WA in this way. Maria was kind enough to host Stephen and I at her place for this conversation. Note: the last reference to AIFWA online that I can find is in 2023, and the website is currently not live. This episode is still aired here due the value of this particular story, the at least seven years of work the non-profit did, and the successful model it demonstrates. This episode was originally released as the sixth of a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of WA. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to WA, so we resolved to re-release them here. To hear the rest of the Clean State series, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page below (where you can also find a five-minute bonus episode of previously unreleased material from this conversation, if you didn't catch it in your podcast feed). And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded November 2020. Title slide: Stephen King (supplied). With thanks to the CCWA, auspicing organisation fo Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, January 20, 2025
242 Extra. Transforming Lives One Home at a Time
A brief but profoundly beautiful bonus episode of previously unreleased material with Maria Novac. Maria was a single mum with a family who had unexpectedly found herself in need of social housing, and landed in a neglected hot box. A chance encounter resulted in her becoming one of the social housing recipients whose life was transformed by Stephen King and the Australian Insulation Foundation. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode 242 with Stephen King: ‘ The Insulation Revolution: The ‘simple’ social enterprise model that inspired a state’ . To hear the rest of the Clean State series, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . Title slide: Stephen King and Maria Novak as they appeared in an article on this story (pic: Steve Grant, supplied). And for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S9 E241 · Fri, January 17, 2025
241. The Huge Untapped Potential of Aboriginal Tourism, with Dale Tilbrook at Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery
Dale Tilbrook is a much-loved native food specialist, educator, and passionate Aboriginal tourism advocate. Like a lot of Australia at the time of this recording, Dale was immersed in a delayed NAIDOC Week , during COVID, celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. She also continues to work towards a big vision for First Nations people, and WA as a whole. This vision is reflected in a joint proposal (linked on the episode web page ) made at the time by Clean State WA and the influential WAITOC – the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council. Dale’s seen WAITOC generate a litany of outstanding success stories in Aboriginal tourism, and at times with very few resources. The potential is huge, she says, with the right support and investment, to empower Aboriginal communities with all sorts of flow-on benefits - and at a time when WA, and the rest of the world – need it most. Today, a special extended edition of the episode that originally aired on the Clean State podcast. I was limited to 30 minutes back then. Today, the full 45 minutes I couldn’t help but let play out when I visited Dale at her Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery . This episode was originally released as part of a series I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of WA. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page . And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded November 2020. Title slide: Dale Tilbrook (supplied). With thanks to CCWA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Eden is Lost, by Selfless Orchestra . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www.
Bonus · Mon, January 13, 2025
240 Extra. Rethinking Roads: Induced Demand, Urban ‘Lounges’ & Utopia
Today, a brief bonus featuring material from my conversation with Shannon Leigh that never saw the light of day, partly due to the wind that blew in, and partly due to Clean State’s mandate for shorter episodes. But it’s worth the listen, with reference to one of Australia’s much loved satirical shows on ‘nation-building’, Utopia. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Shannon Leigh, ‘ World’s Best Place for Active Transport, with Streets for People co-founder Shannon Leigh’ . To hear the rest of the Clean State series, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . Title slide: The shared path with the First Nations stone figure talked about in the main episode by the Swan River / Derbal Yerrigan (pic: Anthony James). And for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S9 E240 · Mon, January 13, 2025
240. World’s Best Place for Active Transport, with Streets for People co-founder Shannon Leigh
Shannon Leigh is co-founder and Director of Streets for People , and previously an award-winning urban and transport planner at the Department of Transport and later Curtin University. Investment in active transport is one of the most livelihood-rich, climate-friendly measures available. And given cost blow-outs in public health, climate related damage, and car dominated infrastructure, it’s another vital transition more of us are after – especially in the wake of the tripling of cycling in Perth since COVID-19. On that alone, WA’s former Auditor General, Colin Murphy, said that “It is hard to think of an activity with more benefits than cycling, for cyclists and for the wider community.” So to talk more about an active transport vision for WA, Shannon takes us to one of her favourite shared pathways by the Swan River. This episode was originally released as part of a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. To hear the rest of the Clean State series, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page (where you can also find a four minute bonus episode of previously unreleased material from this conversation, if you didn't catch it in your podcast feed). And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded in October 2020. Title slide: Shannon Leigh by the Swan River / Derbal Yerrigan for this conversation (pic: Anthony James). With thanks to the Conservation Council of WA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Eden is Lost, by Selfless Orchestra . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www
S9 E239 · Sat, January 11, 2025
239. Bright Sparks in Our Energy Transition: Schools, solar & social enterprise, with ClimateClever co-founder Dr Vanessa Rauland
You might recognise Dr Vanessa Rauland from the renowned ABC TV series Fight for Planet A . Vanessa’s the co-founder with Alexander Karan of ClimateClever , one of a growing number of WA social enterprises that have been realising some of the enormous opportunities in our energy transition. When I spoke with Vanessa for this podcast, a few years ago, the ClimateClever team had nearly doubled in the months prior (even during COVID-19), working with an increasing number of schools, their communities and then businesses, to help them reduce emissions, save money and up-skill the next generation around regenerative living. Vanessa’s long-dedicated her days to addressing climate change and increasing awareness about the vast benefits of living in such a way. And in the wake of the extraordinary youth-led global climate strikes, it’s arguably fitting that schools would take a lead role in the energy and related transitions we so urgently need. For this conversation, Vanessa takes us to one of the WA schools doing just that. This episode was originally released as part of a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. To hear the rest of this special series of Clean State episodes, and more stories of regeneration from around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page . And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded in October 2020. Title slide: Vanessa and AJ. With thanks to the Conservation Council of WA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Eden is Lost, by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <u
S9 E238 · Thu, January 09, 2025
238. Hidden Giants of Shark Bay: Seagrass Secrets, Blue Carbon & Cultural Connections with Professor Gary Kendrick
Professor Gary Kendrick’s great love is the WA coastline and its seagrasses. Gary and colleagues have been at the forefront of seagrass restoration and the blue carbon movement more broadly. And with such a massive extent of coastline featuring globally significant carbon stores, world heritage sites, and deep community and cultural knowledge, the potential for WA – and beyond - is enormous. Gary takes us to one of his favourite parts of WA, to share a little of this spectacular story. This episode was originally released as ‘Blue Carbon, Conservation Economies & the Great Seagrass Restoration, with Professor Gary Kendrick’. It was part of a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. To hear the rest of this special series of Clean State episodes, and more stories of regeneration around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Recorded in one of Gary’s favourite parts of WA, in September 2020. Title slide: Gary Kendrick (pic: OzFish). With thanks to the Conservation Council of WA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. Music: Eden is Lost, by Selfless Orchestra . Find more: The seagrass restoration being done by Gary and colleagues. The Wirriya Jalyanu (Seagrass) Festival at Shark Bay. A video of Gary from 2017 talking more about the story and value of seagrass. Listen to another extraordinary story of seagrass restoration from the south of WA on ep82 of The RegenNarration. And you can find the Clean State Plan (in full and in summary) towards the bottom of the Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding
Bonus · Mon, January 06, 2025
237 Extra. Renewables Double Edge, Repair Revolution & First Nations Radio Renaissance
A brief bonus featuring part of my conversation with Chantal Caruso that never saw the light of day, due to Clean State’s mandate for shorter episodes. A poignant moment occurred at the launch of The Clean State Plan, with a group of First Nations people there expressing concern at the impending renewables revolution. It raised an important question - how do we transition energy systems without repeating colonial extractive patterns? And moreover, without unwittingly hampering the regenerative work they, farmers and others of the land are also pioneering? Then we talk about the low-cost, exponential positive impacts of First Nations radio, and one of Chantal’s favourite stories, stemming from her childhood. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Chantal Caruso, ep237 ‘Introducing The Clean State Stories, with former director Chantal Caruso.’ To hear the rest of The Clean State Stories series, and learn more about the sorts of things talked about here, be sure to follow The RegenNarration podcast. And for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S9 E237 · Sun, January 05, 2025
237. Introducing the Clean State Stories, with former Director Chantal Caruso
As introduced last week, today launches a special festive season series of the Clean State Stories. This was a series of nine episodes I produced a few years ago for the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, the podcast and its host non-profit are no more. But the series of episodes featured such brilliant guests and stories, that are still so very relevant, and not just to West Australians, so we resolved to re-release them here. The opening episode features highly respected former Director of Clean State WA, Chantal Caruso . Chantal was also the lead author of the Clean State Plan, outlining how to create hundreds of thousands of livelihoods for people in energy, agriculture, building, transport, tourism, and the care economy. The vison was to house and employ everyone, avert multiple catastrophes, and transition to a regenerative, fair and prosperous society. And the plan highlighted a stack of brilliant stories from around WA of people already going about achieving that vision, also highlighting the enormous opportunities that await. You can access the Clean State Plan, and its brilliantly formatted Summary, towards the bottom of the episode web page (where you can also find a 7 minute bonus episode of previously unreleased material from this conversation, if you didn't catch it in your podcast feed). Recorded in one of Chantal’s favourite parts of WA, in September 2020. Title slide: Chantal on-location (pic: Anthony James). With thanks to the Conservation Council of WA, auspicing organisation for Clean State WA, for permission to re-release this series. This episode was originally released as ‘Launching the Clean State Jobs Plan: A conversation with lead author Chantal Caruso’. To hear the rest of this series, and more stories of regeneration around WA, Australia and the world, follow The RegenNarration wherever podcasts are found, or on the website . And for more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: Eden is Lost, by local artists Selfless Orchestra . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='
S9 E236 · Fri, January 03, 2025
236. Returning to Fray: Reviving Memories & Stories of Regeneration
A brief new year's greeting from Guatemala, to herald a special festive season series of short episodes. Around four years ago, some of you might remember I produced a series of nine episodes for an organisation called Clean State WA. That became the Clean State podcast, dedicated to regenerative transitions in my home state of Western Australia. Sadly, that organisation is no more, but the series of episodes produced featured such brilliant guests and stories that we resolved to find a way to keep them alive in the record. Their premise is so related to The RegenNarration podcast – it’s why I was asked to produce them of course – sharing a vision, narrative shift, and a plan of action, grounded in stuff that’s already happening. In that sense, their relevance remains, these few years on, and not just to West Australians. So I hope you’ll enjoy the listen to these half hour stories on-location across WA, wherever you are. Title slide: Fray Bartolome de las Casas, Guatemala, where I recorded this. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E235 · Thu, December 12, 2024
235. The 2024 RegenNarration Soundtrack: Highlights from our guests & their places
Welcome to the customary package of highlights from another brilliant array of guests throughout 2024, accompanied by some of the music and sounds of Country heard along the way – this time across two continents, 49 episodes and 78 guests, from all walks of life. Listening to it all together in one place last night was just incredible. I hope you enjoy it too. You’ll hear a little from me first, with a short summary of the year in review, along with a snapshot of where we are right now, some intent for next year, and an update on the Kachana hearing just concluded. With enormous thanks to subscribers and other supporting listeners for making all this possible. And to everyone who sheltered, fed and generally cared for us throughout the year, around Australia and the States. With enormous thanks also, to all the wonderful musicians who generously granted permission for their music to be heard here. And of course, to you, thanks for listening. The track list for this episode, identifying the music and people, is found in the chapter markers. A transcript is also available (on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Title image: AJ in a personal highlight visit to Joshua Tree National Park (pic: Olivia Cheng). Find more: To access the full catalogue of episodes, head to the website at https://www.regennarration.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Thanks for listening, have a wonderful festive season and see you again in 2025! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The Regen
S8 E234 · Mon, December 02, 2024
234. 2025 Australians of the Year for WA: Dianne & Ian Haggerty, Natural Intelligence Farmers
A few weeks ago I released a podcast marking the premiere of an episode of Australian Story that featured the incredible story of regeneration at the hands of the Henggeler family at Kachana Station . Many of you already know the story, from its popularity on this podcast . Well, that Australian Story has gone onto well over half a million views already. And no sooner had it gone out than I got the news that fellow legendary regenerative farmers in Western Australia, Dianne and Ian Haggerty, had been awarded the 2025 Australians of the Year for WA . Now they’re in the mix for the big one, the national Australian of the Year award . You can let the Council know how happy you are about this, and what incredible national ambassadors Di and Ian would be as the Aussies of the Year next year, via the Australian of the Year awards website and social media outlets. When sharing, use the hashtags #AusoftheYear and #NaturalIntelligenceFarming, and maybe #SustainableFarming and #RegenerativeFarming. Marking this moment, today we revisit episode 68: Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, food & communities . This was the first time I’d been out to their farm back in 2020. And listening back now was a reminder of its first impacts on me out there, which I speak about at the end, after I’d spent two days with them touring the farm and chatting back at the homestead. I also remembered my little mate, chirping in my ear from the get go. I start with a few updated layers to the story and some thoughts from Di and Ian. Chapter markers & transcript . Original episode recorded on 17 & 18 July 2020. Title slide: Di & Ian Haggerty with their award ( Auspire - Australia Day Council WA) See more photos on the original episode website linked above, and for more behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: Intro by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.</
S8 E233 · Fri, November 29, 2024
233. Honouring Carol Sanford: Quit talkin’ about what doesn’t work’
On the morning of Wednesday the 27th of November, I got the news that the legendary Carol Sanford had died . You might remember the conversation I was privileged to share with her at the start of last year, for our 150th episode . Carol knew she was dying, so much was getting difficult or impossible for her, and even speaking was tough, as Motor-Neuron Disease (as we call it in Australia) was taking hold. Yet she was as sharp, generous and forthright as ever. Within minutes she was saying things that have stayed with me ever since, including the statement that’s become the sub-title to this episode. So today, a tribute to Carol, featuring the conversation we shared last year, and a few words I’ve recorded here today, at a place very close to my heart. For those who didn’t catch that 150th episode, and may not know much about Carol, she’s been at the heart of what we might call the ‘regenerative paradigm’ for decades. I spent a while scrolling through her last posts on LinkedIn yesterday, and noted that she’d hosted her last Regenerative Business Summit just weeks ago. And poignantly echoing what’s been coming through The RegenNarration podcast in these weeks also, she had written: “Citizens are less ideologically polarized than they think they are, and that misperception is greatest for the most politically engaged people. As a result the tendency is to work on fixing the polarization directly and work on issues more actively. What if the means we are going about change and agreement is only making it worse?” So it seems like a good time to hear from Carol again. And I can tell you that she did finish her seventh book that she was writing at the time, called No More Gold Stars . Ironically, it went onto win one . This episode has chapter markers & a transcript (available on most apps now too). Conversation recorded 2 February 2023, with introduction recorded today. Carol’s family also posted: ‘If you would like to participate in her transition over the next 49 days, she invited you to practice “phowa”, which can be found in Chapter 13 of the Tibetan Book of Living Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E232 · Tue, November 26, 2024
232. Dirtroad Debrief: Chloe Maxmin on the ‘Dirtroad candidate’ successes & what comes next?
This week we’re back with Chloe Maxmin , for a debrief that has been eagerly awaited – by me and many of you, I know – on how the Dirtroad candidates went at the recent US elections, and where to from here. For those who didn’t catch Chloe in episode 225 last month , from up at the farm in Maine, Chloe became the first Democrat ever to represent Maine House District 88, and the youngest member of the 129th Maine Legislature. Two years later, she’d become the youngest female state senator in Maine's history. And all on the back of engaging with her community directly and in ways that transcended the partisan politics so many of us have had enough of. Then, at still just 30 years of age, Chloe co-founded a non-profit that trains others in how to run for office in this way called Dirtroad Organizing . In just 18 months, this resulted in 38 alumni running at the recent election. So, how did they go (including Lucia and Maria from episode 228 ), how did her partner ( from episode 226 ), incumbent independent Bill Pluecker go, what does it all mean, and what comes next? We talk about the spectrum of emotions since the election, the successes of the ‘Dirtroad candidates’, making sense of people voting for those candidates and Trump, whether there are bigger shifts taking place with the 2-party system, how much this was a gender election, whether the US is as divided as it’s said to be, opportunities for regenerative agriculture with the coming administration, issues with the integrity of the election, a burgeoning ‘Dirtroad media’, what comes next for Dirtroad Organizing, and of course music. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 22 November 2024. Title slide: Chloe Maxmin. For more from behind the scenes, become a supporting listener via the links below. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Intro Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E231 · Tue, November 19, 2024
231. A Force for Mending? Reflections from the Regenerate conference & its election-week context
The Regenerate conference in Denver a couple of weeks ago was like no conference I’d experienced in the ‘regen ag’ / food systems space. Such a presence of next generations, women and varied cultures amongst the 500 attendees. And multiple moments of crazy serendipity. It also started the day after the US federal election. So the air was heavy with emotion and uncertainty, when Sarah Wentzel-Fisher, the ED of Quivira Coalition , the primary organising body, opened the conference in tears. It was a unique context to this gathering, a context that also couched some of the most extraordinary stories of regeneration you’re likely to hear in one place. So, come the last snowed-in day of the conference, I pulled out the mic and recorded four short grabs of 15 to 20 minutes each. I wondered if I might chase more good folk down. I’d had such wonderful conversations with dozens of people. But in the end, this small sample of voices seemed to represent those conversations pretty well. While they were also each notable in some way, offering particular insight about the conference and its election context. Each guest introduces themselves as we go: Anica Wong , Communications Director at Quivira. Shumaisa Khan , Carbon Ranch Initiative Manager at Quivira. Aria McLauchlan & Harley Cross from Land Core . Emma Ractliffe from the Agrarian Futures podcast. Then we launch into where they’re from, their ancestry, brilliant regenerative work, conference reflections, how it might change what they do, and finally their raw reactions to the election result (and of course their favourite tunes). It resulted in some viscerally felt wisdom for this moment. I also offer a bit more on the conference and surrounding vibe at the start and end of the episode. With thanks to Quivira , HMI and AMA for kindly having me along. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 8 November 2024. Title slide (counter-clockwise): Anica, Shumaisa, Emma, Aria & Harley. For more behi Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E230 · Tue, November 12, 2024
230. Chris Henggeler at Kachana Station: Marking a very special episode of Australian Story
One of the most remarkable stories of regeneration on this podcast – still the second most listened to episode - featured in a landmark ABC TV special back home last week. One of Australia’s best journalists, Walkley-award winner Ben Cheshire, pulled together the story of Kachana Station, in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia, for one of Australia’s most loved, influential and long-running TV series, Australian Story. Beautifully introduced by another legendary Aussie journo, Leigh Sales, within a few days of screening, it had already notched up over 120,000 views. It was about a year ago when I first proposed to the show that they feature the Kachana Station story. Come January, I was happy to hear from producer Winsome Denyer with her interest. Then Ben called me in July to say they were going to do it. We managed to line up an interview for the show the following month when we were in NY state. And when it went to air last week, it landed a day ahead of yet another state tribunal hearing, set to cast judgement on the family’s appeal of a government order to shoot the donkeys they use as a key part of their regeneration efforts. To mark the moment, I hope you enjoy revisiting one of this podcast's very special encounters in a truly incredible part of the world, for what happened to be the 100th episode back in 2021. I start with an update from last week’s hearing, and a reminder of a rare opportunity to catch Chris in person at the new Grounded Festival being staged in Tasmania next month. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded at Kachana Station throughout the week of 13 September 2021, with today’s introductory update recorded in Baltimore USA. Title slide: from Australian Story. See more photos on the original episode website linked above, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscribing member via the links below. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tune accompanying the intro is by Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E229 · Sun, November 03, 2024
229. Moving from Figure to Ground: With Douglas Rushkoff, ‘live in New York’
When we were in New York recently, I dropped by to visit Douglas Rushkoff at his Queens College office. For those who don’t recall Douglas from his previous times on this podcast , he’s a media professor, documentary-maker, host of the Team Human podcast, and best-selling author of 20 books - including the updated edition of Program or Be Programmed, out now, with particular additions around AI. There’s a launch party for that tonight if you happen to be in or near NY. Douglas is also one of the pioneering forces behind the internet. So when he tells me in this conversation that he’s starting to believe that the whole narrative of the internet is bull shit, it feels big. We actually sat down over lunch initially, but hadn’t talked long before Douglas suggested we press record on it – that others might be interested in this too. So this one’s a little different. Going out on both our podcasts. Less interview, more conversation. On our respective lives and work, their latest surprising turns, magic, perspective and possibility, and yes, this journey of ours across the US this year. Including the light all that might shine on the US elections. It wound up feeling like a fun and profound tonic for the week ahead, and this high stakes time generally. For those who’ve listened to this on Team Human already, you’ll find a tad lighter edit here, with a little more of the personal stuff left in, in case that’s of interest to you. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 9 October 2024 (inc. subway snippets; intro recorded in Baltimore). Title slide: Douglas & AJ after recording (pic: Josh Chapdelaine). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscribing member via the links below. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
Bonus · Thu, October 31, 2024
228 Extra. Q&A after the Rural Runners film screening in West Virginia
This is a bonus extra to episode 228, featuring the Q&A that took place after the film screening of Rural Runners in the Shepherdstown Opera House , West Virginia. That award-winning film is the story of Chloe Maxmin’s incredible community-based electoral wins in Maine from episode 225 . By Chloe’s side every step of the way was her best mate, and then campaign manager, Canyon Woodward , with Canyon’s parallel rise as a champion ultra-distance runner woven into the story. After this screening, Canyon hosted a conversation alongside three local candidates at the upcoming elections, who had each been through the program that Chloe and Canyon subsequently founded, called Dirtroad Organising . You’ll hear from Lucia Valentine and Maria Russo (my 2 guests in the main episode), alongside Canyon, and the other local candidate in the room that day, Troy Miller. And we hear about some of the other candidates and their experiences across the country, too, including in the so-called ‘battleground’ states. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Lucia and Maria, ep228 ‘ Grassroots Transformation in Rural West Virginia: Breaking the Political Mold with Lucia Valentine & Maria Russo’ . You’ll find a few links in the show notes as usual, along with transcripts, and a few photos on the episode web page, with more for subscribing members. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript . Recorded (on the phone in the audience!) 13 October 2024. Title slide image: Maria Russo, Troy Miller, Lucia Valentine & Canyon Woodward (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscribing member via the links below. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your h
S8 E228 · Mon, October 28, 2024
228. Grassroots Transformation in Rural West Virginia: Breaking the Political Mold with Lucia Valentine & Maria Russo
“I've had several folks share with me that they are voting for Trump. But they're also voting for me.” That’s what Lucia Valentine told me when I spoke with her and another first-time candidate for the State of West Virginia at the coming elections, Maria Russo . This seemed to say so much about the coming elections here. For a start, that they’re far from as simplistic, binary and polarised as is often portrayed. And that what these women are up to is important, hopeful and possibly transformative. I met Lucia and Maria at the Shepherdstown Opera House , for the last screening of Rural Runners on its latest national tour. That’s the award-winning film on the story of Chloe Maxmin’s incredible community-based electoral wins in Maine from episode 225 . By Chloe’s side every step of the way was her best mate, and then campaign manager, Canyon Woodward , with Canyon’s parallel rise as a champion ultra-distance runner woven into the story. After this screening, Canyon hosted a conversation alongside three local candidates at the upcoming elections, who had each been through the program that Chloe and Canyon subsequently founded, called Dirtroad Organising . (Available in a bonus extra out soon.) Lucia and Maria are two of those local candidates. And they’re both giving it a real shake in a rural area with a Republican ‘supermajority’, upending all sorts of assumptions as they go. And offering a pretty special finale here too. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 13 October 2024. Title slide: Maria & Lucia (L-R, supplied). See more photos on the website & for more from behind the scenes become a subscribing member via the links below. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , by guests. Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <l
S8 E227 · Wed, October 23, 2024
227. Hemp is the New Buffalo: On the new Patagonia film out today, with director Joel Caldwell
‘The biggest strides in hemp-crete construction are going down on one of the smallest reservations in America.’ That’s how the bill reads on Patagonia Film’s latest production, The Green Buffalo, launching online globally today . It’s referring to the Lower Sioux Indian Community, on the southern bank of the Minnesota River about 100 miles SW of Minneapolis. Turns out we had driven close by after leaving Kelsey Scott’s place on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, where we recorded episode 222. But it took getting to Charleston, South Carolina, to meet filmmaker Joel Caldwell , and learn of this ‘against all odds’ redemptive story – one that holds so much promise for the Lower Sioux, and the rest of us. Joel is a photographer and writer hailing from rural Washington State. Having turned his hand to film making, he found himself transformed by five years following stories of regeneration, together with wife and project partner Hailey Wist. Then come 2024, he was blown away all over again by this story. It’s ended up becoming Joel’s first production with Patagonia, and as you’ll hear, has an incredibly poignant moment for me personally too. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 30 September 2024 (intro recorded in Baltimore). Title slide: Danny Desjarlais, from the film (supplied). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscribing member via the links below. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Find more: Trailer & how to host a screening of The Green Buffalo. Joel on Substack . Premiere live screening of The Green Buffalo is this Friday 25 O Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Sat, October 19, 2024
226 Excerpt. Protecting my Conservative Community - As a Progressive, with Bill Pluecker (& Chloe Maxmin)
In some ways, the first 150 seconds of this excerpt from episode 226 with Bill Pluecker (alongside partner Chloe Maxmin), say everything that needs to be said about where politics is being done better in the US. They sum with the passage that became the lead-off quote in that episode. And they lead off this powerful last ten minutes or so of my conversation with Bill. Bill, an independent representative from Maine, invites us into a world where the beauty of rural landscapes and the preservation of traditional ways of life are under threat. He shares his passion for sustaining the farming heritage of his community amidst cultural and political tensions brought on by external influences. His six-year journey, so far, as an independent politician in a predominantly conservative area paints a picture of dedication and authenticity, as he navigates the complex political landscape to bridge the gap between progressive values and pro-farmer policies. Bill's successful approach is a testament to the power of personal relationships in politics, where he strives to be more than just a soundbite, but a relatable figure who listens and acts for the benefit of his community. We gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of running as an independent candidate without preferential voting systems. Bill provides a candid reflection on how he built trust and rapport with his constituents, emphasising the importance of human connection in an often de-humanised political arena. From preserving the cherished landscapes of Maine to ensuring the viability of local farms, Bill's narrative is a compelling look at the intersection of politics, identity, and community. We draw to a close with law that Chloe sponsored while in the Maine legislature to increase public participation in electoral primaries. And of course we talk music! If you’ve come here first, you can tune into the full episode 226, ‘ An Independent Farmer Wins in Maine: Transcending the ‘battleground’ ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes there too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. Title slide image: Bill & Chloe at Begin Again Farm, near Warren, Maine (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www.regennarration
Bonus · Thu, October 17, 2024
225 Excerpt. All Roads to a Just & Equitable Future Run Through Rural America, with Chloe Maxmin
The last 20 minutes or so of my conversation in episode 225 with Maine’s youngest ever female senator, Chloe Maxmin, has stayed with me since its release. And I’ve heard from a few of you saying similar. So in the interest of not letting it be too ephemeral with the passing podcast feed, this excerpt from that episode features that 20 minutes. We unpack the inspiring and transformative journey behind "Dirt Road Revival," a book that has sparked change in rural organising across the U.S. Chloe shares her experience in turning years of voice memos into a powerful narrative that has not only resonated deeply with rural communities but also paved the way for Dirtroad Organizing, a non-profit dedicated to training and empowering rural candidates. Already, 38 alumni are running at this coming election. We go on to compare notes on some of my impressions while travelling the country (is it so divided after all?), wonder if there might be a Dirtroad Media, and imagine this election and beyond. If you’ve come here first, tune into the full episode 225, ‘ Democracy on the Rise – in the US? ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes there too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. Title slide image: Chloe during the Dirtroad Organising program (pic: from their website). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends.
Bonus · Tue, October 15, 2024
226 Extra. Common Ground Country Fair: A glimpse of an extraordinary 48 years
After recording with Bill and Chloe at Begin Again Farm for last week’s episode , Bill happened to drop word of an upcoming festival. And not just any festival, but the 48th annual running of the Common Ground Country Fair . It happened on 20-22 September this year, in the aptly named Unity, Maine, about 40 miles north of Bill and Chloe’s place. The Fair draws 60,000 people, features all kinds of programs, food and arts, and even makes money for its host the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association ( MOFGA ) - the oldest and largest state organic association in the US (founded in 1971). That’s who Bill works for when he’s not farming himself, or representing constituents as an Independent in the Maine legislature. So I had to ask him if he’d put the microphone back on and tell us about it. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episodes with Bill and Chloe respectively, ep226 ‘ An Independent Farmer Wins in Maine: Transcending the ‘battleground’ with Bill Pluecker’ . And ep225 ‘ Democracy on the Rise – in the US? With Maine’s youngest ever female senator, Chloe Maxmin’ . You’ll find a few links in the show notes as usual, along with transcripts, and a few photos on the episode websites, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. For more on the Fair, watch their excellent 5 minute video . And for more on the Real Organic Conference , which ran the week after the Fair, back at Churchtown Dairy ( which we visited in August), you can now watch videos of that on their website. This episode has a transcript too. Recorded 8 September 2024. Title slide image: from the Fair’s website. For more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https
S8 E226 · Tue, October 08, 2024
226. An Independent Farmer Wins in Maine: Transcending the 'battleground', with Bill Pluecker (& Chloe Maxmin)
There’s a ‘so-called’ battle for rural America at the heart of the coming federal election. But what if it needn’t be a battle? And in fact, what if heart is what’s really at stake? People who love their places – places, by the way, that constitute 20% of the vote, and 97% of the land in this country. After the recent Vice-Presidential debate here in the US, featuring two men speaking to their roots in rural America, it is still reported that people are not seeing themselves well represented in either major party’s characterisations of them. Enter, this week’s story. One of my favourite episodes on the podcast featured a woman I learned about back in Australia – Maine’s youngest ever female state senator, Chloe Maxmin. On arrival at Begin Again Farm , we also met her partner Bill Pluecker . And as he and Chloe showed us around the farm, we learned of his incredible journey as co-owner and farmer here, former manager of a successful Community Supported Agriculture program, and subject of a Maine state legislature love story. For that’s how Chloe and Bill met, when they were both elected to the House of Reps in 2018. But while Chloe’s sights were on bringing the Democratic Party back to rural people, Bill stood as an Independent in his conservative district, and won - despite an electoral system not designed to enable that. Six years on, he’s still there and is now running for a fourth term. Bill was also named in the Grist 50 for 2024. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 8 September 2024 (intro in Baltimore). Bonus 5 minute episode on the Common Ground Fair. Title slide: AJ & Bill (pic: Olivia Cheng). For more behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly,
S8 E225 · Tue, October 01, 2024
225. Democracy on the Rise – in the US? With Maine’s youngest ever female Senator, Chloe Maxmin
This is one of my favourite conversations, and it starts a mini-series of sorts. I’ve had many listeners ask how things feel in this US election year. So, after months speaking with all kinds of people as we travelled through half the states of this country, throughout October, as the election approaches, I’ll offer what we’ve observed, in conversation with people doing some of the more outstanding things we’ve learned about along the way. Today, meet Chloe Maxmin . Chloe left the farm she grew up on in Maine, as many young folk do, and headed for the city. But against frequent advice, she returned. And soon after, wondering why a kind community was voting for unkind politics, at age 26, she would stand for office and become the first Democrat ever to represent Maine House District 88, and the youngest member of the 129th Maine Legislature. Two years later, she’d become the youngest female state senator in Maine's history. Chloe achieved all this with a community movement akin to what is transforming Australian politics right now. And we see a similar thing happening nationally here right now - notwithstanding the different electoral system. All helped along by organisations like the one Chloe was trained by , a book ( Dirt Road Revival ) and film ( Rural Runners ) about her experience, and now a non-profit Chloe has co-founded that trains yet more people, called Dirtroad Organizing . In short time, 38 alumni are now running at the coming election. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript . Recorded 8 September 2024 at Begin Again Farm , Maine. Title slide: Chloe just before our chat (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website & for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration p Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E224 · Thu, September 26, 2024
224. The Mail Run: Navigating hurricanes, mail & Apple's 30% fee controversy
This mid-week mail run comes to you from Savannah Georgia, as a hurricane nears the Florida coast and the storms begin here in advance of it. As usual with these brief episodes, I reply to text messages from listeners through the new link in our show notes. And this time I also announce the recent winners of the book giveaway. That’s before sharing some concerning news for independent podcast creators like me, as Apple announces a controversial 30% premium on Patreon subscriptions made through their iOS app. I run through some implications, ways to avoid this charge, and other subscription options. Then we close with a quick look at what’s coming up. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 26 September 2024. Title slide: The view from where this was recorded, by the rising marsh. See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E223 · Tue, September 24, 2024
223. GROUNDED! Launching a Holistic Farming Festival (& a book on Milk), with Matthew Evans
A new holistic farming festival is about to launch back home in Australia. Inspired by the famed Groundswell in the UK, GROUNDED! lands in beautiful southern Tasmania on the 4th and 5th of December - with a pre-festival event on the 3rd of December too. It’s billed as a cross between a world class conference, an informative field day and a cracking food festival. This is big news, and a huge undertaking by some great folk. So with the draft program released, it was time to chat about it with founder Matthew Evans. Matthew is also a farmer, and TV producer, and was recently called ‘perhaps the best food writer in the world today’, in a Country Life UK review of his new book. No surprise to us, having had Matthew on the podcast a few times now. So this gave us a chance to talk briefly about the new book too. It’s called ‘ MILK: The truth, the lies, and the unbelievable story of the original superfood ’. And as it lands in a context where milk and dairy are often reported to have large climate and biodiversity loss footprints, I’m all ears. All the more given my 30-year avoidance of the stuff! This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 22 September 2024 (intro recorded outside by the wetland once the traffic had died down at night). Title slide: Fat Pig Farm, the site of GROUNDED! (pic: from the festival website) For more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Find more: Get tickets to GROUNDED! Listen to ep.209, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining
Bonus · Thu, September 19, 2024
222 Extra. Out on the Grasslands, with Kelsey Scott
After recording the main episode with Kelsey, we headed out for a very special tour through regenerating cultural and natural grasslands. We pick it up amongst the layered stories around the nearby Missouri River / Lake Oahe. That sets up a sense of the power in arriving at the family’s re-introduced Sundance grounds. Soon after, we witness Kelsey finding Indian grass back on the ranch for the first time, and achieving a long-held dream to see native grasses once again taller than she is. Found alongside the climate cooling, wildlife and nutritional benefits of these grasses, is a family’s deep re-connection in place, and a love story or two. And yet more layers have emerged in these stories since we met at the CREATE reunion last month in Montana . Olivia and Yeshe are riding in the back for this one, so you’ll hear some kid’s play here and there, and a little cameo from Olivia with Kelsey, comparing herbal medicine notes across Native American and Chinese traditions. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Kelsey, ‘ Resurgent Land, Culture & Food Systems on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript . Recorded 3 August 2024. Title slide image: Kelsey’s dream realised – the return of native grasses once again taller than she is (pic: Anthony James). Tune by Jeremiah Johnson . See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber
S8 E222 · Tue, September 17, 2024
222. Resurgent Land, Culture & Food Systems on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation, with Lakota Woman Kelsey Scott
Kelsey Scott is a 4th generation cow producer and 125th generation land steward at DX Ranch , on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. Kelsey is a Lakota woman, citizen of the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe, Chief Strategy Officer for the Intertribal Agriculture Council , owner of a direct-to-consumer regenerative beef operation DX Beef , part of the education programs her family runs, a featured presence in the documentary film Common Ground , the first Native American student to give the student address at a commencement ceremony for South Dakota State University, and daughter of the first Native American to head the Farm Service Agency, and all of these roles have been to significant and growing effect. There is an extraordinary regeneration of land, culture, and regional food systems underway in this country. Largely, it seems, flying under the radar - along with its empowering federal government support. The successes range from Kelsey’s own business, to global premiums being achieved for tribal enterprises, to a new Intertribal Food Business Centre being set up to model that food system regeneration – for the benefit of all. Meanwhile, Kelsey’s father Zach Ducheneaux continues to lead the Farm Service Agency , just landing his key legacy piece to date. And the flourishing return of native grasses on their land continues apace, as if singing a tune of gratitude for it all. We first met Kelsey and family in Montana, at the CREATE program reunion featured in ep. 215 . We talk about her unlikely presence and subsequent transformation in that program too. Then come full circle with her beautiful music story. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). Recorded 3 August 2024. Tune into a tour of Kelsey's place here. Title slide: Kelsey during our chat (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website & for more, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
S8 E221 · Tue, September 10, 2024
221. Restoring Dairy Farming with Family, Food & Festival: At Churchtown Dairy, with Judith Schwartz, Eric Vinson & Steffen Schneider
The extraordinary Churchtown Dairy in New York is restoring dairy farming in a context where such farms are still closing around them. They are doing it with nature, family, food and festival at its heart. With organic and biodynamic methods, they are keeping cattle together in their families to amazing benefit, cultivating myriad farm products including medicinal plants, restoring a diverse landscape, designing beautiful buildings including a store onsite, and hosting an extensive set of gatherings at their spectacular barn venue. That’s where we’d attended an event the night before, with guest-of-honour and friend, the globally renowned author of Cows Save the Planet, Water in Plain Sight, and The Reindeer Chronicles, Judith Schwartz . It’ll also host the Real Organic Project conference on September 28, amongst Shakespeare productions and varied concert events . Today we meet Churchtown’s herd and farm managers – Eric Vinson and Steffen Schneider respectively. I already knew a bit about Steffen - Co-Founder of the Institute for Mindful Agriculture , and Director Emeritus of Farm Operations at Hawthorne Valley Farm, up the road from Churchtown (having spent 30 years there). And Eric? Well, this 36 year old former journalism major used to run a successful event hire company in the city. But when covid hit, the realisation hit that he needed to live out something more meaningful. He landed at Churchtown, prepared to do anything to get a start. And two years on, he’s managing the herd, with a big vision, and an appetite for sharing it with people. Eric’s our main guide here, as Steffen just had a short time with us, and Judy is my esteemed unofficial co-host. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 29 August 2024. Title slide: Judith Schwartz, Olivia Cheng & Eric Vinson (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider jo
Bonus · Thu, September 05, 2024
220 Extra. Out Among the Buffalo, with Pedro Calderon-Dominguez
The evening before we recorded the main episode with Pedro, we went out on the Plains to shepherd the buffalo to their next patch. This is a rare chance to hear one of the world’s most respected bison wranglers – and the animals themselves – at work. And there were some very special moments too, in this condensed 20-minute special extra to episode 220. The wind can be mighty on the Plains, and as we went further towards the buffalo it did push the microphone I had on me at times. But given how rare and special this was, and that our voices, and at times the buffalo voices, can still be heard clearly enough, I’ve left in as much as I can of the good stuff, and decided to run with it. I hope you enjoy it. We pick it up as we drive out to the herd, already in awe at the scale and wonder of the Great Plains. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript . If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Pedro, ‘ The Great Buffalo Restoration on the American Prairie ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. Recorded 29 July 2024. Title slide image: Among the buffalo (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Thanks for listening! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber
S8 E220 · Tue, September 03, 2024
220. The Great Buffalo Restoration on the American Prairie, with ‘world’s top bison wrangler’ Pedro Calderon-Dominguez
Pedro Calderon-Dominguez is regarded as an extraordinary horseman. Though as fate would have it, his life took a series of unexpected turns, through wildlife ecology as the first to further Aldo’s Leopold’s work with black bears, into holistic management with some of the legends in Mexico and beyond, and ultimately into working with buffalo. Now he’s regarded by some as the world’s top bison wrangler. Pedro is currently based at an ambitious project called American Prairie , in the north of Montana, managing its bison restoration program on the Great Plains. We visited him and his brilliant wife Flora a few weeks ago, and were blown away by the presence of the bison again on this country, and Pedro’s subtle connection with them. Mexican-born and raised, with his own indigenous origins and expert horse-handling pedigree, Pedro was recruited to American Prairie to play this key role in their mission to coordinate and leverage, across varied land tenures, the restoration of 3 million acres of essential grasslands. And it’s turning up some remarkable outcomes, including relationships with First Nations, and connections with the broader bison restoration work across the continent. At the same time, we’d also been hearing about the controversy and discontent amongst some locals feeling like big money from outside is supplanting family ranches. Save the Cowboy billboards line the highway as we approach. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 30 July 2024 (intro at Judith Schwartz’s home in Vermont). Title slide: Pedro with the buffalo (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a supporter via the links below. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden. The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Find more: Tune into a special extra, Out Among the Buffalo, later this week. For more on Pedro, tune into Back to the Land with Cody Spencer - Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
S8 E219 · Fri, August 30, 2024
219. The Mail Run: From Churchtown Dairy
This week we’ve got some special news, and a mail run. That is, I reply to some of the text messages coming from you through the new link in our episode show notes. And I’m coming to you from the extraordinary Churchtown Dairy in New York, after attending an event last night at their amazing barn venue, with guest-of-honour, the globally renowned author and previous podcast guest, Judith Schwartz . This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 29 August 2024. Title slide: Yours truly in the farmhouse reading room where this was recorded (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Thanks for listening! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E218 · Wed, August 21, 2024
218. Visiting Aldo Leopold’s Shack: On the 75th anniversary of A Sand County Almanac, with Dr Katie Ross
Aldo Leopold has profoundly influenced the modern conservation and regeneration movement. He affected nearly every national conservation initiative in the US during the 1930s and 40s, and this year marks the 75th anniversary of his classic book A Sand County Almanac. Hard to believe now that it was rejected many times before being finally accepted just one week before his death. Since then, the book has been translated into at least fifteen languages and sold well over two million copies. Today, we visit the land that inspired it, by the Wisconsin River, in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Land that was clapped out and abandoned before he bought and regenerated it with his family – also converting the famous shack from what was a chook shed. Our family starts up the road at the Centre run by the Aldo Leopold Foundation , honourably marking the place of Aldo’s death. Then we head out to the shack, where Aldo arrived at so many of his insights, and where I’m joined in conversation about the man, the regeneration happening here and around it, and the meaning of Aldo’s legacy today, by Dr Katie Ross - dear friend, very generous long-time podcast subscriber, former Acting-CEO of Soils for Life back in Australia (founded by our former Governor-General Michael Jefferies), and now returned local to America’s Dairyland in the State of Wisconsin. Though it was her first time to the shack too. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 14 August 2024 (intro recorded at dawn today at Chute Falls in Ontario, Canada). Title slide: Aldo Leopold outside the shack (from the Foundation’s website). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
S8 E217 · Tue, August 13, 2024
217. Imagining a Society to Match the Scenery: Cole Mannix on founding Old Salt Co-op, Festival & food system revolution
Cole Mannix was featured in the New York Times a couple of months ago as part of a series called ‘Making It Work’, about ‘small-business owners striving to endure hard times’. The title read: Montana Has More Cows Than People. Why Are Locals Eating Beef From Brazil? The by-line followed: ‘Cole Mannix, [co-founder] of Old Salt Co-op , is trying to change local appetites and upend an industry controlled by multibillion-dollar meatpackers.’ And it seems local appetites are ready for it too – with both eaters and producers lining up for a taste of things, apparently just in need of a model that works. It’s early days, but with a family legacy steeped in stewardship, some hard lessons from past efforts, and Cole’s personal journey from the ranch to theology and other revelations, the co-op is off to a rocking start. Literally. Soon after it formed in 2021, The Old Salt Outpost burger shop was set up in a famous old bar in downtown Helena. Though when I visited Cole, we started in the cruisier country vibes of the new restaurant and retail outlet across the street, called The Union. And we culminate back there with four of my favourite minutes ever on this podcast. They happened to be prompted by Fred Provenza 's presentation at the Old Salt Festival, a gathering to bring the whole lot together. So many essential aspects of systemic, regenerative change. Though as I was to learn, with one critical piece of the puzzle to come. And just the right sources of finance to make it happen. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). Recorded 20 July 2024. Title slide: Cole & AJ entering the Old Salt Outpost burger shop (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Dona
S8 E216 · Tue, August 06, 2024
216. Allan Savory: On holistic management, scaling & a sense of survival
Allan Savory is a legend of regenerative agriculture - the ongoing force behind holistic management, a movement that has featured in so many stories on the podcast. Indeed, as we’ve travelled across the US / Turtle Island, we continue to hear such stories (including in last week's episode ). Longer-term listeners might remember my conversation with Allan on the podcast back in 2020 . It still stands as amongst the most listened to, and my personal favourites. So as we neared Denver, Colorado, I reached out to Allan and the team at the Savory Institute . As it happens, Allan was about to front the next course at their nearby ranch. But by the time we were in the ‘hood, it was the week of Independence Day, and holiday movements had set in. So Allan, his wife Jody and I shared the intention to meet later in our journey. Then, over the weekend just passed, we were privileged to visit Kelsey Scott at the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota (standby for that special episode soon). Allan came to mind there too, with a story I share here from Kelsey’s husband Monte. It reminded me of Allan’s story at the end of our conversation, on the profound place intuition has held for him in his life. Then there was the music he chose, which I was able to include at the end. So with all that in mind, and as Allan approaches his 89th birthday, I hope you enjoy revisiting one of this podcast's very special conversations. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript (available on most apps too). Intro recorded 6 August 2024. Conversation recorded 22 November 2020. Title slide: Allan Savory (supplied). See more photos and links on the website of the original release , and for more from behind the scenes become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If
S8 E215 · Tue, July 30, 2024
215. Stories of Transformation from Next Generation Leaders: The CREATE Program's Global Impact
In episode 164 with Nicole Masters and Meagan Lannan (the infamous ‘armoured butts’ episode) we talked about the new ‘train the trainers’ program in agroecological systems thinking they’d created, called CREATE . This time, we visit them at home, as they gather for the first reunion of the program. Fifteen highly accomplished alumni from incredible and varied places gathered at Meagan’s beautiful regenerative ranch. And as the few days together wrapped up, I spoke with six of these people from across each of the three annual runnings of the course to date. Those three runnings have taken place in some famous places in the US and the UK, including where our first guest today used to be an ambitious CEO for the family estate of Lady Diana. The 4th running of the course is about to start in Paradise Valley, at the foot of Yellowstone, where plans are also afoot to create a major new centre for this and other programs to flourish into the future. So given this podcast explores the stories of human transformation that allow for the regeneration of everything, and how we can help other people along, I was fascinated to learn who these people are, why they were here, and what transformations they’ve experienced. And there was no shortage of them, from the course, and from this gathering itself. Recorded 11-12 July 2024. Title slide: Nicole Masters speaks to all (pic: AJ). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Guests: Garth Clark Cody Spencer - and his new podcast Back to the Land Rebecca Baldwin-Kordick Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please co
Bonus · Tue, July 23, 2024
214 Excerpt. One of the Great Ones: With Nina Simons & Kenny Ausubel
A number of you have said last week’s episode was one of the best, with legendary Bioneers founders Nina Simons and Kenny Ausubel. So in honour of that, and in case you missed it, or haven’t heard through to the end, this week’s release is an excerpt of the last 20 minutes or so of a very rare public conversation with the two of them together. We pick it up where the conversation shifted gear, when I asked about the repeated uncanny happenings that have blessed their lives – including the magic tale of how Bioneers was saved (a story Nina doesn’t usually talk about in public). Then we go on to talk about the power of work to come with Bioneers, what they’ve got to say to us next generations at this time, and what we can do to create and receive better media. Listen for the interplay of the thunder storm that rolled in towards the end too. If you’ve come here first, tune into the full episode, ‘ A Life’s Wisdom, Transformation & Romance, with legendary Bioneers founders Nina Simons & Kenny Ausubel ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes there too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. Title slide image: Kenny & Nina from the 2018 Bioneers Conference (pic: Genevieve Russell). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rati
S8 E214 · Wed, July 17, 2024
214. A Life's Wisdom, Transformation & Romance: With legendary Bioneers founders Nina Simons & Kenny Ausubel
This treasured and unique conversation is with the legendary founders of Bioneers , Nina Simons and Kenny Ausubel . Bioneers is a cultural phenomenon - an innovative nonprofit organization that has been highlighting breakthrough solutions for restoring people and planet - for 34 years. What started as a somewhat reluctant conference in 1990 has become all sorts of other notable projects, including Bioneers Learning, and Bioneers radio and podcast. And there’s yet more to come. Nina and Kenny also continue to be award-winning authors and filmmakers. You might even recognise Kenny from an appearance in Leonardo DiCaprio’s feature documentary The 11th Hour, for which he was also a central advisor. And when Nina’s new book landed on my desk last year, it doubled my hopes to meet them both when we reached their town. The book, ‘ Nature, Culture, and the Sacred: A Woman Listens for Leadership ’, is in many ways, the culmination of Nina’s life’s work to date. We hear more about this and other culminating and transformative moments in their lives here – from the ‘mystery’ illness that nearly claimed Kenny’s life as a teen (that Western medicine had no answer for), to Nina’s walk through a Puebloan garden soon after the couple met. This was a very personal, at times riotous, and often revelatory wander through their life stories, with a literally thunderous finale. (Listen for the interplay of that storm towards the end!) It was an honour and joy to sit with them around the kitchen table of their beautiful adobe home in the mountains outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, for this rare public conversation with Nina and Kenny, together. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). Recorded 20 June 2024. Title slide: Kenny, Nina & AJ (pic: Olivia Cheng). To see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . T Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Thu, July 11, 2024
213 Extra. Visiting Wendell Berry & A Psychedelics Resurgence Back-Story: Off-record with Andrew Stone
Andrew Stone and I continued on for another 15 minutes off-record, but with the recorder still on. The conversation was so fascinating that I asked him if he was ok with it going out to you. So here’s a bonus 15 minutes with Andrew, where we went on to talk about his visit to Wendell Berry and their conversation on technology, some more uncanny connections, being part of the DMT studies in the ‘90s when psychedelics research restarted (and the story behind The Spirit Molecule on Netflix), and finally onto his work designing and building sustainable housing. If you’ve come here first, tune into the main episode with Andrew, ‘ Tech Innovator to Mystic Farmer: Andrew Stone’s Path ’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes too, along with a transcript, and a few photos on the episode website, with more on Patreon for subscribing members. Title slide image: Wendell Berry with Andrew’s ma Lib Stone (supplied). Find more: The portrait film of Wendell Berry, Look & See . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E213 · Tue, July 09, 2024
213. From Tech Innovator to Mystic Farmer, with the fantastic Mr Stone
Andrew Stone has been dubbed the ‘solar mystic farmer’, as a pioneering solar passive designer/builder, former software developer of some of the commonplace apps today working alongside luminaries like Steve Jobs, regenerative farmer with treasured links to Wendell Berry and his family, key presence in the psychedelics resurgence, and a generally fascinating guy. That was as much illustrated by the fact that when we met to record this episode, he was dressed to the nines as Robert Oppenheimer. You’ll hear why – and you can see him in that splendour on the title slide for this episode. We sat down amidst cottonwood seed falling like sun-drenched snow, magic adobe structures that appear to have spontaneously sprung out of the earth, and regenerating farmland his family has progressively acquired over the last 40 years, right in the heart of Albuquerque, New Mexico. I caught up with Andrew the day after he’d been helping others with adobe building and design, part of a power of work he does with community collectives like the People’s Energy Coop . There was much to talk about – about the past and future of all these technologies and techniques. All of which summed to an extremely entertaining and insightful conversation. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). Recorded 16 June 2024. Title slide: Andrew Stone (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more become a member via the Patreon page. With thanks to Laura & Ben at Grosz Co Lab , for the Americas tour insignia. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Find More: A bonus episode with 15 fascinating minutes off-r Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E212 · Wed, July 03, 2024
212. The Children's Hour Radio Show Becoming a Global Phenomenon, with Katie Stone & Amadeus Menendez
How does a local radio show run with and for children become a global phenomenon - with plenty of adult listeners too? All the more in an age of media disruption and decline, with the ongoing struggle of not only mainstream media models, but public and alternative ones too. In just six years, The Children’s Hour is approaching a listenership of one million people, heard on demand as a weekly podcast and on more than 160 stations in 6 countries. That stratospheric growth started with a pivot – when this local volunteer-run public radio show in Albuquerque, New Mexico, became a not-for-profit organisation with loftier ambitions. Katie Stone became its Executive Director, having been a volunteer for 17 years before that. Today Katie shares this incredible story with us, as we take a seat in the show’s renewably powered studio, alongside 15 year old announcer Amadeus Menendez. Amadeus started with the show as it pivoted, and has grown with it since he was nine. And as the awards roll in, the next generation’s ambitions become loftier still. Katie and Amadeus share how the show expanded globally, filling educational gaps and teaching media literacy and civics to children globally. Amadeus recounts his experiences engaging with experts like a NASA astronaut (in space!) and the treasurer of New Mexico. And together they emphasize the importance of positive, affirming messages and actionable responses to current events, ensuring that media educates and inspires without commercial influence, and across political divides. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 16 June 2024. Title slide: Katie & Amadeus at Sun Spot Studio after our conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly,
S8 E211 · Tue, June 25, 2024
211. Going Slow to Go Fast: Joining Jeff Goebel in Action 'Doing the Impossible'
Our final episode last year was titled Achieving Consensus and Commitment to do the ‘Impossible’ . It featured Jeff Goebel, and drew an enormous response from listeners, a number of whom have continued to work with Jeff since. So when I knew we were heading to the States, I reached out to Jeff. And soon after, he got in touch to say he was going to be hosting a workshop soon - would I like to come and be part of it? Would I what! It was one fascinating and enlightening experience. In so many ways. So the morning after the workshop, Jeff and I sat down on the front porch at his beautiful place in New Mexico to chat about it. The first half is on the workshop, and in the back half we go on to talk about two other key issues. Firstly, how the processes Jeff runs can help transform how finance can work for more of the good stuff we well know is possible, in all sorts of areas. And secondly, how his current efforts are going, to attract major funding to build this capacity in people globally, in the process of addressing our toughest problems everywhere. More on Jeff: Jeff became a Holistic Management trainer with Allan Savory in the mid-80s. But pretty soon felt it was missing something, as did Allan. Then a series of uncanny events and outstanding successes in Jeff’s life, including a pivotal experience with First Nations, set him on a path of what he calls community consensus work. He is now globally renowned for developing a highly effective program of respectful listening, visioning, and planning that attains 100% consensus - and commitment - of all parties, in all sorts of contexts. And often where human conflict and land degradation are at their worst. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now too). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded in Belén, New Mexico, on 30 May 2024. Title slide: AJ & Jeff during this conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
S8 E210 · Mon, June 17, 2024
210. Spirit Farm: Listening to Navajo Diné land with James & Joyce Skeet
The Navajo Diné Nation is the biggest First Nation in the US, crossing Arizona, Utah and New Mexico. There we connected with Diné elder James Skeet, and his brilliant wife Joyce - descendant of award-winning Mennonite farmers in Pennsylvania. Together, they founded Spirit Farm, and the educational non-profit Covenant Pathways . Spirit Farm is a demonstration and experiential farm focused on healing the high desert southwestern soil, and the communities living there. They do this by weaving insights from modern holistic management and regenerative agriculture, with the ancient wisdom of dryland farming and Native American cosmology. And they’ve created a suite of incredible value-add enterprises that importantly don’t perpetuate the commodisation of food, land and culture. While their education and employment programs bring others along with a range of experiences on the land, such that they’re now called upon around the country and the world. Which is part of where this conversation culminates - with the extraordinary sharing of spiritual stewardship with an African American community, and the profound implications – and inspiration - for all of us. We sat down together by an ancient spring and sweat lodge for this. And close with something special from the following morning. This episode has chapter markers and a transcript , if you’d like to navigate the conversation that way (available on most apps now). The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 27 May 2024. With thanks to podcast member Chris Diehl for introducing us. Title slide: Joyce & James Skeet at Spirit Farm (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid
S8 E209 · Sun, June 09, 2024
209. Ultrawilding! Steve Mushin on blowing the lid off rewilding, joy & creativity
Steve Mushin is an award-winning industrial designer and inventor, and an old mate from when we both were part of the team at CERES – the legendary community environment park in inner Melbourne. He’s also now the author of children’s book ‘ Ultrawild: An audacious plan to rewild every city on earth ’ (Allen & Unwin). Eight years in the making, it's an intricately illustrated book exploring visions for rapidly transforming cities to reverse climate change and species extinction. The book contains over 100 ludicrous sounding, and just maybe possible inventions, illustrated with over 1,000 drawings. It’s packed with curious facts on everything from how plants and fungi share resources and the soil engineering power of megafauna, to insect and mechanical flight, high-tech microbe-powered toilets and much more. It took me a little while to pry the book from my boy’s hands for a read. And it’s fair to say my brain was bending with the force of Steve’s lens on the world - always a welcome thing. Equally welcome were the parts of our conversation here where we delved into how rewilding might square with the rapid mass deployment of industrial technologies like renewables, EVs and so on. As well as how it might square with a vegan or omnivorous diet, with Steve firmly in the vegan camp, and me? Well, long-time listeners of this podcast will have heard some of my journey from vegetarian to omnivore, largely through the experience of the podcast. Yes, here’s a bit of the George Monbiot/Allan Savory stouch - without the stouch! Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode website), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded online with Steve at home in Aotearoa New Zealand on 5 April 2024. Title slide: Steve at work (supplied). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. D
S8 E208 · Tue, June 04, 2024
208. Bringing the Beaver Back in an Uninsurable State: With Brock Dolman, co-founder of the Occidental Arts & Ecology Centre
A couple of weeks ago, I received some big news. The California State Assembly unanimously passed what’s been dubbed the ‘Beaver Bill’ . Yes, California is bringing the beaver back. For those who might not be fully across how big this news is, the beaver is a keystone species that assists in restoring watershed and ecosystem functions in areas that need them most. And in an era of warming, fire and desertification, and with insurers leaving the state in droves, recognition of this is growing here. That’s with thanks to the community that’s been building a campaign for 25 years. And this is just the tip of the beaver dam of what they’ve been up to in that time. The Occidental Arts and Ecology Center ( OAEC ) has just celebrated its 30th anniversary, and as it happens, has also just been announced as the 2024 Non-profit of the Year for its Senate District. It’s a wonderfully restored 80-acre residential, research, demonstration, advocacy and organizing center in Sonoma County, California, a bit over 50 miles north of San Francisco. And extending out from there, it develops strategies for regional-scale community resilience, working with tribes, non-government organizations, private landowners, and an array of agencies to achieve this, locally and internationally. So you can imagine how happy I was to meet one of its co-founders while we were in California, Brock Dolman . A man Judith Schwartz describes as an all-round brilliant natural historian, restoration practitioner, teacher and raconteur. All of that is in evidence in this conversation, as we trace Brock’s fascinating life journey from military child to adventurous seeker to founding the OAEC with some other ‘crazy people’ with little money. And how together they would become a powerhouse at bringing people together for increasingly remarkable regeneration. As always, head here for chapter markers. You can find a transcript there too (also available on Apple and some other apps), which is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded 9 May 2024. Title slide: Brock Dolman. See more photos on the website, and for more from behind the scenes, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider jo
S8 E207 · Sun, May 26, 2024
207. Dr. Bronner's Cosmic Engagement Officer: David Bronner on an extraordinary family business & legacy
I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Bronner, the Cosmic Engagement Officer of the famed Dr Bronner’s , whose life story is as rich and foamy as the company's iconic soap. Since David became CEO of the top-selling brand of natural soaps, body care and food products in 1998, the company has grown from $4 million in revenue to well over $100 million, and all while continuing to change so much about the systems and stories we live by. In recent times, they’ve co-founded Regenerative Organic Certification, setting a whole new standard of global supply chain transformation. And here today David announces a new upcoming initiative called the Purpose Pledge, which follows on from last week’s conversation on regenerative finance with Esther Park uncannily well. But what really had me wondering, as I approached Bronner’s Californian HQ, was how David feels about the iconic All-One company ethos and legacy, 76 years in, given the state of the world today. Having emerged from the tragedy of the Holocaust at the hands of David’s inspired grandfather Emanuel, and knowing that amongst the company’s trailblazing regenerative supply chains are communities in both Palestine and Israel, this was a profound opener to our conversation. We go on to talk about their deep involvement in plant medicine and the psychedelics resurgence, and how it relates to David’s personal healing – and even how he returned to work at the company. Then there’s the capping of executive pay and giving to others all profits they don’t need, how to grapple with ‘regen washing’, David’s ‘big journey’ as a vegan now advocating for regenerative agriculture, and finally, the breaking news. As always, head here for chapter markers if you’d like to see an overview or navigate the conversation that way. You can find a transcript there too (also available on Apple and some other apps), which is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded on 16 May 2024. Title slide: AJ & David, after the yarn (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. With thanks to Mel from Dr Bronner’s Australia , and everyone at Bronner’s HQ. Music: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avo
S8 E206 · Mon, May 20, 2024
206. A Paradigm Change in Regenerative Finance: With Esther Park, CEO of Cienaga Capital
For all the great regenerative work bubbling up everywhere right now, it seems fair to say that finance and investment in it is lagging a little. As my guest today puts it, we often hear about how farmers and land managers need to change, for example, but we hear less often about how finance and investment needs to change. It’s why a major report and project was launched online in Australia last year by Sustainable Table, ‘Regenerating Investment in Food and Farming’. I hosted a conversation at that launch, which you might remember became episode 161. I never forgot it. So as soon as we knew we were coming to the US / Turtle Island, I asked Esther Park if she’d be up for meeting in person, to dig deeper into her paradigm changing work as CEO of Cienaga Capital. Key to this story, too, is another pioneering woman you’ll hear about, Sallie Calhoun . 23 years ago, Sallie and her partner acquired Paicines Ranch , originally named Rancho Cienega de los Paicines. They subsequently set in tow a remarkable regeneration of the land, an array of enterprises, and learning journeys for people – including other investors and philanthropists. Sallie later founded Cienaga Capital, and recruited Esther to the lead role. Also key to this story, in all manner of unexpected ways, is Esther’s Korean ancestry. Head here for chapter markers if you’d like to see an overview or navigate the conversation that way. You can find a transcript there too (also available on Apple and some other apps), which is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access for those who need or like to read. Recorded at UCB, Berkeley, on 3 May 2024. Title slide: Esther Park where we started our conversation (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (th Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E205 · Tue, May 14, 2024
205. Living Well As Society Transforms: With legendary writer Richard Heinberg
Richard Heinberg is widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost advocates on the urgent need, and inviting prospects, of a transition away from fossil fuels. He’s the author of 14 books including some of the seminal works on our current energy and environmental crises. I remember reading The Party’s Over 20 years ago, and have followed Richard’s work right through to his most recent book (and excellent parallel podcast series), Power: Limits and Prospects for Human Survival – and what praise that one drew, from people like Bill McKibben, Joanna Macy, Wes Jackson, Maude Barlow, Peter Buffet, Dahr Jamail, Douglas Rushkoff and Dennis Meadows. Richard also features in countless film and other productions, along with the online course developed with the Post Carbon Institute , where Richard is a founder and Senior Fellow. And seven years ago, Richard was kind enough to be a special guest on a panel event I brought together on energy transition, which attracted a couple of hundred people and later became episode 23 on this podcast . Richard is also an outstanding musician, with an extensive tour and back catalogue extending from the ‘60s. All the more reason that after the event we did in 2017, we resolved to catch up if I ever made it to Santa Rosa. That’s where this sweeping conversation took place, on transformations in energy and food systems, us humans, and his own fascinating life. Culminating in Richard’s crystalised framing of the unprecedented challenge facing us, and how we might pull it off. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded by a restored Santa Rosa Creek on 30 April 2024. Title slide: Richard & AJ in Santa Rosa (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneratio Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Thu, May 09, 2024
204 Extra. World Premiere Reading from 'Carbon: The Book Of Life', by Paul Hawken
This special extra to episode 204 features the last handful of minutes with the legendary best-selling author Paul Hawken. This is where the episode culminated in Paul offering a world premiere reading of the rousing finale to his upcoming book, Carbon: The Book Of Life. The reading happened to be accompanied, too, by some notable sounds from around the garden and surrounding redwoods. Head here for a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded at Paul's place in northern California on 27 April 2024. Title slide: The nearby Muir Woods National Monument (pic: Anthony James). Hear the full episode, and see more photos, on the episode web page . And to see and hear more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E204 · Mon, May 06, 2024
204. Carbon, The Book of Life: With legendary best-seller Paul Hawken
Paul Hawken is the legendary author behind myriad best-sellers, including most recently Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation , and before it, Drawdown: The most comprehensive plan ever proposed to reverse global warming . Both books were accompanied by comprehensive online portals that continue to engage people from all walks, all around the world. Paul’s next book is a more personal volume – perhaps his most personal. It’s called Carbon: The book of life. And ahead of its release, it was my privilege to join him at his place near San Francisco, to talk about the book, and so much else, in what might be his most personal podcast too. The upcoming book puts carbon back into perspective, as no less than the centerpiece of life itself. If you’re anything like me, be prepared to have your mind blown. You won’t see, or perhaps more pointedly hear, the world the same way again. In some ways, this book feels like a legacy piece. And so too this podcast. Not that they’re the last we’ll hear from Paul (the next book is already in mind). But this feels like a very special moment in time with this extraordinary writer, journo, entrepreneur, consultant to world leaders, and so much more. And it culminates in a world premiere reading, of the rousing finale to the book – accompanied uncannily by some notable sounds from around the garden. Chapter markers & transcript . Recorded 27 April 2024. Title slide: Paul & AJ (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode website, and for more from behind the scenes, become a paid subscriber via the links below. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . Cascade Falls. The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests. Find more: The most popular episode on this podcast, with Paul on the release of Regeneration, for ep.96 . And from the Kimberley, ep.145, Regeneration: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E203 · Mon, April 29, 2024
203. Democracy On The Rise, with Kate Chaney MP
The community in the Australian federal seat of Curtin elected the 7th new independent MP to parliament 2 years ago now, and the first and only (to date) in WA. In those two years, that community independent, Kate Chaney, has continued to drive a level of engagement and outcomes that no one I speak to has any memory of happening before. Perhaps it happened back when the major political parties first got going, when they had some membership to speak of? Today, less than 0.5% of Australians are members of a major party – not even the 1%! In contrast, democracy is on the rise via this community independents movement. And here in Curtin, it’s resulted in multiple deliberative democratic processes, consistently brilliant outcomes, and some recent ground-breaking developments – from wellbeing economies, to climate, to transparent elections. But Kate’s expressed great fear too, based on what she’s seeing in parliament. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations.) Recorded 19 April 2024. Title slide: Kate & AJ in conversation (pic: Angie Hewitt). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , music chosen by guests (thanks to Josie Symons). Find more: Curtin’s Pathway to Net Zero: Making our community healthier, fairer and more liveable as we address climate change . Upcoming events . Kate’s article on the Fair & Transparent Elections Bill. My articles: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. D
S8 E202 · Thu, April 25, 2024
202. Some Big News: An Earth Day Launch
I’ve been promising some big news for a little while now. Well, earlier this week, on Earth Day, a special and unexpected launch took place. Head here for a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded at San Francisco Airport on 22 April 2024. Title slide: In the redwoods just outside San Francisco, where a woman passed us on the trail and wished us happy Earth Day. (The local radio station also played nature sounds all day.) To see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S8 E201 · Mon, April 22, 2024
201. Echoes of Africa – A Journey to Our Human Heartbeat: With Lamine Sonko & Simon Edwards
Lamine Sonko is an acclaimed composer, artistic director, performer and multi-instrumentalist continuing his family line of Guéwels. That’s a role inherited by certain members of traditional communities in Senegal who are tasked with communicating ancient storytelling and ‘songlines’ through dance, rhythms and song. And earlier this year, that converged with his role in Melbourne-based afro-beat band, the Afrobiotics , when he was joined by his five bandmates back in Senegal on a landmark tour . And one of those five blokes is an old mate I played in a rock band with in the ‘90s. Simon Edwards is an incredible guitarist, teacher, and soulful traveller. I’ve been wanting to speak with these guys for years, and when they happened to return from the tour while I was in Melbourne, it finally happened. Connected to the band's journey, in 2018 Lamine embarked on a search for a deeper understanding of how ancient musical traditions are embodied by the Guéwel elders of Dakar, Senegal. The project, called 13:12 , has culminated so far in a film , guided by Lamine’s mother, and a live theatre production that previewed at The National Theatre Sorano in Dakar on this tour. It was said to be ‘an unforgettable blend of joy, emotion, and ancestral presence’. And when the band converged on Dakar at the same time, there was profound revelation, connection and healing for visitors and locals alike. The word Guewel means 'to bring people together in a circle', and that’s what we did a few weeks ago at Simon’s place. In the still of a late evening, a certain stillness enveloped this conversation too, through to a very special live rendition at the end. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript. (The transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access for those who need or like to read.) Recorded 14 March 2024. Dedicated to Lamine's mother, Guewel elder Oumy Sene. Title slide: Lamine & Simon on stage with the Afrobiotics. See more photos on the website, and for more behind the scenes, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directl
S8 E200 · Mon, April 15, 2024
200. The Land Does It For You: With 'The King' David Marsh
Welcome to the bicentennial episode. And who better to mark the occasion than this legend of regenerative agriculture, David Marsh . To visit Allendale Farm is like stepping into an incredible rewilding of country – as a livestock farm! David’s been here for nearly 60 years, the first half of which he ran industrialised cropping and livestock farming, which continued to devastate the land, his bank account, his family’s health, and increasingly, his conscience. The second half, he ditched the cropping and started to run livestock regeneratively, letting the land do more of what it wanted to do. Now he sees birdlife akin to RAMSAR listed wetlands, 1500 new trees that seeded themselves, and myriad other extraordinary changes. And powering this enormous legacy, a family tragedy that continues to shape their lives in profound ways. A long-held hope, my family visited David and his wife Mary near Boorowa in NSW a few weeks ago. I only half-jokingly wanted to call this episode ‘the do-nothing farmer’ – and even the ‘do-nothing and pay-nothing farmer’ - with reference to the deft, laid-back, ‘hands off’ approach David applies to the land, its self-organising regeneration so evident. But he thought that sounded a bit less than glorious, and insisted it’s more complex than that. I’ll let David explain, in a treasured exchange, in suitably golden twilight. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded at Allendale Farm on 10 March 2024. Title slide: David & AJ ahead of this conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fee
S8 E199 · Mon, April 08, 2024
199. Deliberative Democracy: Nicole Curato on how to transcend political impasses on climate & everything else
This podcast has been increasingly hearing about the extraordinary outcomes that can stem from deliberative democratic processes. I still hear from listeners about past episodes with people like Jeff Goebel and Amanda Cahill . So this week, we head to the nation’s capital to speak with someone I’ve been looking forward to meeting for years. Professor Nicole Curato is with the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance at the University of Canberra. She’s also a prominent journalist, particularly in her former home country of the Philippines. She’s written op-eds for the New York Times, The Guardian & Al Jazeera. And she regularly collaborates with CNN Philippines, occasionally serving as a television presenter, and has hosted documentaries and produced podcasts. Nicole explores how democratic innovations unfold in the aftermath of tragedies, including disasters, armed conflict, and urban crime. To that we might add increasing stresses like climate change, housing and political polarisation. Nicole is the author of Democracy in a Time of Misery: From Spectacular Tragedy to Deliberative Action . Which might just as well have been sub-titled, from spectacular tragedy to spectacular deliberative action, such is the nature of some of the stories she has to share - in terms of their outcomes in the world, and their life-changing effects on those involved. And in a context right now where democracy itself is on the line, and with it the possibility of coming together to produce more of the extraordinary outcomes we know we can, Nicole was the person I needed to speak with. I suggested to Nicole that we meet in her favourite part of Canberra. She took us to Tilley’s . And what a place. No surprises then, that we wind up talking about how all this relates to social media, karaoke and Taylor Swift. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded in Canberra on 7 March Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E198 · Mon, April 01, 2024
198. Where the Reed Warbler Called, with award-winning writer & new farmer Sam Vincent
Sam Vincent grew up on the farm where Charles Massy famously heard the call of the reed warbler for the first time in 150 years or so. But, like most millennials in his position, he wasn’t going to stay there. Until his old man now famously put his hand in a woodchipper. That’s when Sam left his inner-city life as a writer to help out, and unexpectedly found himself thinking differently about the farm, and his old man. Sam now runs Gollion Farm , with a suite of thriving enterprises, profound new connections with First Nations, and ongoing regeneration of country. And when he wrote a book about it all, called ‘ My Father and Other Animals: How I took on the family farm ’, it won the 2023 Prime Minister's Literary Award for Non-Fiction. The book is billed as a ‘memoir about belonging, humility and regeneration – of land, family and culture’. Charles Massy calls it a delightful ‘must-read’, Anna Krien calls it ‘one of the most hopeful stories today’, and Billy Griffiths calls it a ‘rollicking comic memoir’. A few weeks ago, we visited Sam at the family farm, just outside Canberra in the Yass Valley of NSW to chat about it. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded on 4 March 2024. Title slide: Sam Vincent, under the crab apple tree (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='htt
S8 E197 · Mon, March 25, 2024
197. Jim Phillipson: From Ownership to Stewardship
Late last year, I arrived at a quandary. I’d been hearing about how inaccessible land ownership is for younger folk, and how investment capital is still relatively slow to come on board the incredible broad scale potential of regenerative agriculture (notwithstanding often great intent). And I’d been hearing how even long-term legends in regen ag are still expected to be saddled with enormous debt and rates of return (to say nothing of squeezed prices), while they also regenerate the majority of the national and global estate on our behalf. Clearly all untenable. So I began to wonder out loud, what if there’s something fundamentally misplaced with the current approach to attracting investment in regeneration? When thinking this aloud, I got some nodding heads and an introduction to Jim Phillipson , former pro-cycling champ, businessman, philanthropist, and co-founder of the Rendere Trust and Biodiversity Legacy . Join us as at Jim’s place as we delve into the transformative concept of stewardship over traditional land ownership. Jim's been helping people transition land and capital into stewardship models of ownership for a while now, having started with his own. And yep, he was advised this would never work. Here he shares his story and insights on how reshaping land titles to reflect stewardship can align investments with regenerative agriculture, potentially tapping all sorts of potential quickly, and how a related ethos is manifesting across media, politics, and reconciliation with First Nations. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and a transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded at Jim’s place, on regenerating land in Gippsland, Victoria (as a dust storm blew up from surrounding vegetable farms), 3 March 2024. Title slide: Jim & Heather Phillipson with AJ. See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, fro Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E196 · Mon, March 18, 2024
196. Zach Bush MD: Back to the Garden
Zach Bush MD has become an internationally recognised educator on the microbiome, as it relates to human health, soil health, food systems, water systems, and regenerative living as a whole. The touchstone insight of Zach’s initial transformation was that we don’t need to solve each of our many increasingly prevalent diseases – we need to regenerate the source of our health and vitality. And he’s been startled by our regenerative capacity since embarking on a film project called Farmer’s Footprint back in 2018. It became a global phenomenon, prompting the creation of Farmer’s Footprint USA , Australia , UK, South Africa and New Zealand, so far, alongside a broader project called Project Biome. Amongst all this, the transformations have continued for Zach. So this time, ahead of the Farmer’s Footprint Festival in NSW, I hoped to get to know more of the person behind the star. The feeling behind the public accolades and judgements. Along with what this doctor does when he tends intrinsic health, why farmers continue to be at the heart of his life calling, Zach’s intentions to run for President, his vision of a regenerative economy, his response to a charge of talking psychobabble, new films and courses, all culminating in the spiritual roots of it all, and a world first - Zach’s first live musical performance on a podcast. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers and transcript, also available on Apple and some other apps. (Note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read.) Recorded in the northern rivers of NSW on 10 November 2023. In case you're noting the bird sounds in my intro and outro, they were recorded on the Mornington Peninsula back in Victoria (visiting my brother's family). Title slide: AJ and Zach on stage at the Farmer’s Footprint Australia Festival (pic: Olivia Katz ). To see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please
S8 E195 · Sun, March 10, 2024
195. From Quarry to Oasis: Dominique Hes on the incredible story of Newport Lakes, circular economies & beyond
Dr Dominique Hes is deeply embedded in the regenerative movement. A renowned educator, author of Designing for Hope , advisor on the Federal Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group, Chair of Greenfleet, and featured presence in some of Damon Gameau’s wonderful films, Dominique started working in regenerative development 20 years ago, and ‘sustainability’ for ten years before that. Her focus is on real projects, on the ground, in place. And today, we visit one of them. In her place. Newport Lakes. What was a quarry, is now an extraordinary landscape right in the inner-west of Melbourne. And all on the back of the community here. This is now the subject of Dominique’s next book. Which is just as well, as nobody I’ve spoken with in Melbourne even knows it exists. So join us for a walk through Newport Lakes, as Dominique shares this incredible story with us, along with the story of her life - its transformations, hopes, struggles, breakthroughs, and regeneration reflected in this place. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded on 26 February 2024. Title slide: Dominique at Newport Lakes as we pressed record (pic: Anthony James). See a selection of 'before and after' photos on the episode web page , and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Sacrosanct , by Duel Native aka Stephen Choi. The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https
S8 E194 · Sun, March 03, 2024
194. The Vital Transitions in Energy Beyond Electrifying Everything: Tim Fisher on sun, surf & sympathy
Tim Fisher is the eldest son of the late Professor Frank Fisher. You’ve heard Frank’s name a bit on this podcast , legendary systems thinking educator in Australia – and good mate over the last dozen or so years of his life. Twice my good fortune was meeting Tim, and keeping in touch over the years. Tim is a wealth of experience, grace and salience in his own right. So, returning to Melbourne to see family for the first time in years, it seemed a good time to visit this extended family of sorts, and press record on a long-awaited chat about his fascinating life, dice with death, and vital work. Tim has run publications across media platforms, government agencies and non-profits. He’s edited and written for the ABC, SBS, The Age, Broadsheet, Smith Journal, Surfing World, Surfer, Triple J, White Horses, Patagonia and more. As a board member of Psychology for a Safe Climate and a member of Surfers for Climate , he devotes much of his time to storytelling and communication around climate change. Especially on the bigger and often unseen picture of energy transition – including the opportunities and needs beyond electrifying everything. To that end, he’s currently Head of Communications at the Energy Efficiency Council , with the ear of the federal government, and a major conference in May featuring international keynote Amory Lovins. We talk about all this – life, death, growing up with Frank, surf, media and energy transitions – and emerge with some consistent threads of success, and possibilities to go on with. You’ll hear some listener mail at the end too. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded on 24 February 2024. Title slide: Anthony & Tim. See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patr Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E193 · Sun, February 25, 2024
193. Regenerating Life, the Movie: How to cool the planet, feed the world & live happily ever after, with John Feldman
Regenerating Life is a new feature-length documentary that takes a fresh look at solving the climate crisis - and everything else. Internationally acclaimed New York filmmaker John Feldman recently premiered it in the US (where recent podcast guest Judith Schwartz featured on the panel). He’s now about to accompany its premiere in Europe. The film shifts away from the narrative that burning fossil fuels is the primary cause of the climate crisis – seeing that as just one symptom, significant as it is, of humankind’s relentless destruction of nature as a whole. This is because it’s the vast biodiversity on this planet that regulates and balances the climate. And the key take home? We can and are reversing this destructive process by Regenerating Life. The film is also a kind of tribute to a much-loved Aussie scientist, Walter Jehne. And John talks here about his own transformation with varied projects and other legends in systemic thinking over the decades. Some feature in this film, like Vandana Shiva, Wes Jackson, Didi Pershouse, Satish Kumar and Naima Penniman. At the close, a special feature, with music made for the film by John’s wife, renowned composer Sheila Silver. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded 16 February 2024. Title slide: John Feldman (supplied). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Music from the film by Sheila Silver , with piano by Sheila and violin by Emmanuel Vukovich. The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Find more: Regener Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E192 · Mon, February 19, 2024
192. The River Is Our Blood: Kate McBride, Zach Bush MD & Dr Pran Yoganathan at the Reconnection Festival
We’re back at the Reconnection Festival for the last of three inter-related panel conversations, each building on the other. This one's on health, and features explosive revelations about a ‘Motor Neuron Disease alley’ linked to pollution and river degeneration in Australia’s Riverina agricultural district. Akin to the ‘cancer alley’ of the Mississippi River that transformed the life of our international guest, Zach Bush MD . Zach went on to found US not-for-profit Farmer’s Footprint , and has now shepherded it to five countries so far, including Farmer’s Footprint Australia . Australia’s MND alley is just part of what Kate McBride is reporting on, and living, as a researcher with The Australia Institute and 5th generation farmer, born and bred on the half-million-acre Tolarno Station on the Darling Barka River. She came to national prominence unintentionally as the river ran dry and ongoing fish kills have followed. Dr Pran Yoganathan , a Gastroenterologist and renowned voice of the 'regenerative medical movement', and also now a farmer, shares his experiences within the medical system in this context. Our guests bring to light the urgency of revisiting our approach to medicine and agriculture, and everything else, and how we can do it. We hear profound stories of embracing our cultural roots, generating greater community advocacy, and collaborating across diverse viewpoints, right into the halls of power. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded in the northern rivers of NSW on 11 November 2023. Title slide: AJ, Zach, Pran & Kate (pic: Olivia Katz ). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadic Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S8 E191 · Thu, February 15, 2024
191. Huge Opportunity: Original Haggerty farm for sale
Welcome to the first of our mid-week specials. This is one of the experiments I want to try this year. Short grab releases featuring particular opportunities, stories or updates. There are just so many coming on, I hope this helps you to access them, and all of us to build on them. As ever, you’ll let me know what you think! First up then, a huge opportunity in the wheatbelt of WA. The Haggerty family have put their original ‘home’ property up for sale. This is where they developed the foundation of their globally renowned ‘natural intelligence farming’ model over a few decades. Here they share with us some of the what, why and how of the sale, along with a sense of the enormous possibilities on offer. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 8 February 2024. Title slide: the view Ian talks about (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Find more: Flyer with contact for the sale, viewable on the episode webpage . The real estate agent’s page for the property. Di’s LinkedIn page (with email). The new Natural Intelligence Farming page on LinkedIn. The amazing Miller and Baker in North Perth, menti Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E190 · Mon, February 12, 2024
190. A Feast of Transformation: Laura Dalrymple, Matthew Evans & Darren Doherty at the Reconnection Festival
Feast on our next conversation at the Reconnection Festival, the largest gathering of the regenerative movement in this country to date. This time, we’re talking food, for which the 800 people present were joined by a few more visionaries: Laura Dalrymple, founder of the extraordinary Feather and Bone in Sydney Matthew Evans, author, TV host & farmer at Fat Pig Farm in Tasmania, and Darren Doherty, founder of the globally renowned Regrarians out of Central Victoria. The general trajectory of the conversation was ‘what’s hot, what’s not, what’s working and what’s next?’ It broaches some of the tough stuff regarding how we navigate the complexities of the global food system to foster a healthier society and planet? This includes challenges related to meat debates, food production health crises, and economic barriers. We also delve into the treasure trove of stuff that’s working well. Which sums to a call to further reconnect with the journey of our food from farm to fork (and far beyond), even amidst financial hurdles and a world in flux. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded live at the Green Room stage of the BluesFest venue in the northern rivers of NSW on 11 November 2023. Title slide L-R: Anthony, Darren, Matthew and Laura (pic: Olivia Katz ). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <ul
S8 E189 · Mon, February 05, 2024
189. Cultural Reconnection: Live with Dr Amanda Cahill, Jade Miles & Isira Aunty Jinta at the Reconnection Festival
We head over to the eastern-most point of Australia this week, for the largest gathering of the regenerative movement in this country to date. Join us at the Reconnection Festival, staged by Farmer’s Footprint Australia in November last year. We sit with a panel of three visionary women, for a conversation on culture that laid a foundation for everything that followed. Two of our panellists are previous podcast guests: Dr Amanda Cahill, CEO and founder of The Next Economy , and Jade Miles, CEO of Sustainable Table and farmer and author at Black Barn Farm . They were joined here by Indigenous elder Isira , known as Aunty Jinta. This was one of my favourite conversations last year, and in many ways lays a foundation for this year too. There are profound insights shared here into the cultural bedrock necessary for nurturing life on Earth. Our guests faced some wrenching dilemmas at the time too, providing a powerful launching point for exploring what might actually offer ways through our most trenchant impasses, to beneficial transformations. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded live in the northern rivers of NSW on 11 November 2023. Title slide L-R: Anthony, Amanda, Jade & Isira (pic: Olivia Katz ). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics . Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , featuring music chosen by guests (with thanks to podcast member Josie Symons). Find more: Amanda Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E188 · Mon, January 29, 2024
188. The Regeneration Rhapsody: Success Stories of Soil & Spirit from the Margaret River Conference (Day 2)
Join us at the grand finale of the 2023 Regenerative Agriculture Conference in Margaret River WA. Following on from last week, today we’re with another all-star panel. And again, we’ve no predetermined agenda, but to reflect on what had gone before, and what might come next. Dr Judi Earl is a national treasure, having conducted the first studies describing the benefits to pasture from planned grazing. She has been a Holistic Management educator since 2002, and showcases the capacity of grazing animals to regenerate land on her 454 hectare property in NSW. Rowan Reid is a global figurehead in agroforestry. He’s a co-founder of one of Australia’s most successful Landcare groups, the Otway Agroforestry Network, in southern Victoria. More than 12,000 visitors have toured his Bambra Agroforestry Farm, which is set up as a 42-hectare outdoor classroom for farmers, scientists, students and tree lovers. Kristy Stewart is a young leader who was born and raised up the road from Rowan Reid at Yan Yan Gurt West, an award-winning sheep and agroforestry farm of 575 acres, on Wadawurrung and Gadubanud Country. You might remember Kristy from episode 132 out at the family farm, or facilitating for Nicole Masters in her workshop last year. Grant Sims runs the family farm in Victoria, which has been no-till since the early 80’s. When Grant came back to the farm full time he started looking at ways to improve the life and function of the soil through biology. Today he is one of this country’s most popular speakers and trainers on the topic. Our guests are not just talking about change; they're living it, transforming the very soil we stand on, food we eat, water we drink, clothes we wear, air we breathe, livelihoods we make, and communities we belong to. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 7 September 2023. Title slide L-R: Kristy, Rowan, Grant & Judi (pic: Daniela Tommasi). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S8 E187 · Mon, January 22, 2024
187. The Regenerative Era Ignites: Tales from the 2023 Margaret River Conference (Day 1)
Welcome to the new year. And welcome to a new world, where soil renews and pastures flourish, where every bite of food embodies a philosophy of renewal. The Regenerative Era blooms, and with it, a transformative approach to our landscapes and the very sustenance of life. Join us on a journey to Margaret River, where the 2023 Regenerative Agriculture Conference ignited a beacon of hope and inspiration with a turnout of passionate souls exceeding 300. This episode is your exclusive pass to the heart of a movement, with regenerative systems pioneers forming an all-star panel that pulled no punches and had plenty of laughs along the way: Dr Terry McCosker OAM, founder of RCS Australia and one of the great innovators of Australian agriculture for over 55 years; Dianne & Ian Haggerty, globally renowned pioneers in WA’s wheatbelt; Heidi Mippy, award-winning Noongar and Thiin-Mah Warriyangka woman who has worked in community development for over 25 years, runs a business, and has a chapter in the best-selling book Rising Matriarch; And Rod O’Bree from Yanget Farm, whose work has been described as taking Peter Andrews’ famed Natural Sequence Farming to the next level - to say nothing of his work regenerating supply chains. This episode isn't just a recount of a conference; it's an immersion into an era that redefines our relationship with nature, a blueprint for a future where regeneration is not just a concept but a living, breathing reality. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on Apple and some other apps, and the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect). Recorded on 6 September 2023. Title slide L-R: Heidi, Terry, Rod, Ian & Di (pic: Daniela Tommasi). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a member via the Patreon page. Music: Green Shoots, by The Nomadics , off their latest album. Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . The RegenNarration playlist , fea Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Wed, December 20, 2023
186. 2023 RegenNarration Soundtrack: Highlights from our guests this year
Welcome to the customary package of highlights from another brilliant array of guests throughout 2023, accompanied by some of the music and sounds of Country heard along the way. Our guests were farmers, artists, First Nations, entrepreneurs, investors, former miners, migrants, health professionals, writers, journalists, facilitators, producers, consultants, researchers, diplomats, political economists, permaculturalists, market gardeners, chefs and more; some famous, many not, of all ages, from right around Australia and the world. It’s all put together here in what sums to a feast of uplift, fun, beauty, guts and love. See the website for the ‘track list’. Title image: A moment of trust, Anthony face to face with Kalahari the bull, at Kachana Station (pic: Chris Henggeler). With thanks to all the wonderful musicians who generously granted permission for their music to be heard here. Find more: To access the full catalogue of episodes, head to the website at https://www.regennarration.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Thanks for listening, have a wonderful festive season and see you again in 2024! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S7 Enull · Tue, December 12, 2023
185. Achieving Consensus & Commitment to do the ‘Impossible’, with Jeff Goebel
Welcome to a very special final episode for 2023. After seven years of this podcast, covering many inspiring stories, there’s clearly no mystery as to how we go about regeneration. So why is the macro story, if you like, the big picture - extinctions, emissions, inequality, health - still going the wrong way? Is there something we’re missing, for all our regenerative efforts? Something that doesn’t just help a few of us on regenerative trajectories, but all of us? Something that changes what happens, not just in the margins, but all over? Throughout the last 18 months or so, in particular, a thread has emerged on the podcast that suggests there is indeed that something, and we know how to go about that too. And my guest today, Jeff Goebel, has been at it longer than most. You might remember my recent guest on ep175, the award-winning author of The Reindeer Chronicles, Judith Schwartz, talking about him. She wrote up an incredible story in that book, of community transformation guided by Jeff, and was so inspired by it she has since set up a new initiative with him. Jeff Goebel became a Holistic Management trainer with Allan Savory in the mid-80s. But pretty soon felt it was missing something, as did Allan. Then a series of uncanny events and outstanding successes in Jeff’s life, including a pivotal experience with First Nations, set him on a path of what he calls community consensus work. He is now globally renowned for developing a highly effective program of respectful listening, visioning, and planning that attains 100% consensus - and commitment - of all parties, in all sorts of contexts. And often where human conflict and land degradation are at their worst. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 8 December 2023. Title slide: Jeff Goebel on Navajo land in 2013. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Community Consensus Institute. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. D
S7 Enull · Tue, December 05, 2023
184. After Former Ambassador’s Climate Hunger Strike: Gregory Andrews on its extraordinary & complex outcomes
D’harawal man Gregory Andrews is the Former Ambassador and first Threatened Species Commissioner of Australia who went on Climate Hunger Strike outside Australia’s federal parliament for, as he put it, my kids and country. On the 16th day, he was hospitalised. And while Gregory began his recovery, a community vigil of sorts kicked in, with people taking Gregory’s place, fasting for a day each. And that’s just a hint of some of the extraordinary insight and power sparked by Gregory’s experience - as indeed the history of these sorts of experiences has often found. Though not all progressive voices, in this instance, including my federal independent MP, as it happens, Kate Chaney, were in support. We talk about all this in what became a very personal exchange about the value of what we can give of our lives, in these times. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 27 November 2023. Title slide: Gregory on his back patio amongst the trees in Canberra during this conversation. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Lyrebird Dreaming , Gregory’s website, including the Climate Hunger Strike petition outlining his 5 demands of the government. Songs from a Hungry Finch ( Gregory’s playlist while on hunger strike). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the <a href='https://anthonyaus
S7 Enull · Thu, November 30, 2023
183. Alessandro Pelizzon: On the EU adopting ecocide laws, & media to believe in
Earlier this year, Associate Professor in Law, Alessandro Pelizzon, was on the podcast talking about some of the latest global paradigm shifting developments in our legal systems. A couple of weeks ago, there was another such development. The EU is going to criminalise severe environmental harms ‘comparable to ecocide’. And related to that, it’s also broaching post-growth economies. All part of broader shifts in deciding what we value most, and how our systems can best change to reflect that. With this in mind, we also go on to talk about what Alessandro is observing in our media systems - the emergence of a new phase of ‘climate-denialism’, and from some people who have great appeal to many of us, and in a variety of ways, from Elon Musk to Jordan Peterson. How to make sense of that? And to what extent might this be related to the paradigm shifts above? That leads us to the broader question, what do we do about media? We compare notes on what’s been brewing on and around the podcast lately. And to close, we get a brief update on the Resonant Earth project that Alessandro has co-founded and talked about last time. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 24 November 2023. Title slide: from a media release about the EU agreement ( source ). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Hear more from Alessandro, most recently on episode 159 in the northern rivers in April of this year (with further links): on the collapse & renewal of universities, the education we need, & latest on Rights of Nature. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Bec
S7 Enull · Mon, November 27, 2023
182. My Eulogy for a Friend & Systems Thinking Legend: Celebrating the 80th birthday of Professor Frank Fisher
Today is a special release ahead of this week’s scheduled episode. It was recorded with a full house of over 400 people in the main theatre at Federation Square in Melbourne, for the memorial service of my late great mate and mentor, and legend in systems thinking – and practice – in this country, Professor Frank Fisher. Mine was a humble opener for a few beautiful eulogies offered on the day. Today would be, or is, Frank’s 80th birthday. I’ve commemorated the occasion in recent years with episodes featuring fittingly special guests – from the late Hazel Henderson, to the still thriving Allan Savory, Charlie Massy and Paul Hawken. This time, for the big 8-0, I’d been imagining Frank still being here, wondering where our conversations and experiences may have gone over the years. And that took me back to this event, and the best tribute story I could muster at the time. And hard as it was, there did seem to be a bit of magic about. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This was recorded on 15 September 2012, with deep gratitude to friend and film-maker Chris Grose , who gave so much of himself without notice, to film hours of footage of Frank in the months before he died, along with this event. Title slide: from the back of the room, with Fran Macdonald speaking (credit: Rodney Dekker ). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Cycles, by Simon Edwards (composed for the occasion). Simon is also guitarist for the incredible Afrobiotics and Public Opinion Afro Orchestra . Find more: You can hear from Frank himself, with legendary ABC broadcaster Robyn Williams, on episode 24, The Wilderness Within . And in an interview an early podcast list Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Tue, November 21, 2023
181. Revolutionising Perceptions, Repurposing Donkeys & Restoring Country: With Brooke Purvis, co-founder of the Last Stop Donkey Program
Brooke Purvis is a podcast listener who reached out after hearing the most recent episode with Chris Henggeler from Kachana Station last month. She wondered if she could help with the ‘donkey situation’ there. It turns out she’s co-founded something called the Last Stop Donkey Program, out of Singleton in the Hunter Valley of NSW. Brooke and husband Heath say they saw many people looking to purchase donkeys in an attempt to combat growing stock losses from dingo attacks, as donkeys are renowned for their stock protecting capabilities. Their website explains: ‘There was only one problem, donkeys are hard to come by. However, in the Northern Territory and Queensland they are classified as pests and eradication measures are in place, usually aerial culling.’ Well, we know we can add WA to the culling list, of course. So, partnering with the local school, would you believe, the Last Stop Donkey Program was born - taking in wild donkeys, re-socialising them, and training prospective owners before they purchase the donkeys. But that doesn’t begin to describe what’s happening there, only two years in. From broader education and even donkey therapy programs, to enormously positive ramifications for country and those stewarding it. From the promise of major financial benefits to farmers and the public coffers, to revolutionising how we might view so-called ‘pest’ animals in this country – right through to our Apex predator, the dingo. Along the way, the donkeys are transforming this former horse-riding champ, and the growing number of people the program is reaching. And offering the ultimate prospect of stitching our landscapes and communities back together again. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 20 November 2023. Title slide: donkey (supplied). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Last Stop Donkey Program. Eight minute video from Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too
Bonus · Thu, November 16, 2023
161 Excerpt. We Can Create a New Normal: Live panel launch for Regenerating Investment in Food & Farming
This is an excerpt of one of the most pivotal conversations on the podcast this year. So many conversations since, and attempts to navigate the paradigm change talked about here, have come back to this launch event, and the stories expressed in it. Having just returned from the Re:Connection Festival in the northern rivers, and a little tour around it, I’ll have more out on the podcast soon about some of this trailblazing work going on. This conversation marked the launch of a major report and project by not-for-profit outfit, Sustainable Table (you might remember Jade Miles, current CEO, talking about it on last week’s episode). I’m joined here by two international guests – the CEO of Cienega Capital, Esther Park, and the CEO of Steward, Dan Miller. And alongside us are co-founder of the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance, Dr Katherine Trebeck, and regenerative farmer and lead author of the Regenerating Investment in Food and Farming report, Tanya Massy. We pick it up from about the 40 minute mark, where the panel is gathering steam with some ‘real game changers’ coming on, including stories from around the world on how and where paradigm changes in investment are being achieved right now. Then there’s Q&A featuring other prominent folk around Australia, re-framing questions of scale, working in or outside existing systems, and vital processes of learning and transformation. To hear the conversation in full, and see a range of links, head to episode 161, Regenerating Investment in Food & Farming . Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded online with live audience while I was at the Massy farm, Severn Park, on 20 April 2023. Title slide: regeneration of food and farming in action (source: Sustainable Table). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and ex
S7 Enull · Tue, November 07, 2023
180. We're Very Close to a Tipping Point: Rachel Ward & Jade Miles, live in Margaret River
Rachel Ward is a famed actress, film-maker and now farmer. Jade Miles is the CEO of Sustainable Table, author of Futuresteading, and steward of the incredible Black Barn Farm. We shared this conversation with a live audience after a screening of Rachel’s brilliant documentary, Rachel’s Farm. It was a curtain raiser to the Regenerative Agriculture Conference in Margaret River WA, and the penultimate event of Rachel’s film tour of 30 or so locations around the country. That lent a certain perspective to this conversation – a kind of overview of the movement, and the country. And that met Jade’s vantage point, also touring the country and researching the world with a different lens, as CEO of Sustainable Table. You might recall their launch event which became episode 161 earlier this year, Regenerating Investment in Food & Farming. Unsurprisingly, talking with these two women at this time resulted in a very personal, hard-hitting, and inspired take on where things are at, what’s coming down the line, and the stories helping to make it happen. You’ll hear the 3 of us in conversation for the first 15 minutes or so, then we interweave into our chat a handful of questions from the audience - who are also among the regenerative pioneers in this country. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 5 September 2023. Title slide: Jade Miles and Rachel Ward on stage (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: To screen the film, gain access to resources etc., head to the Rachel’s Farm website . You can hear Rachel and Anthony in conversation just before the film’s premiere and tour, with Rachel’s co-star Mick Green, in episode 168 . You’ll find Jade at Black Barn Farm , Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.<
Bonus · Wed, November 01, 2023
170 Excerpt. Don’t Ask People to Pick a Side, with Tim Hollo
It’s all go here now for the upcoming RE:CONNECTION Festival. But there are other reasons for this excerpt today. So many of my conversations these days, including after the Voice Referendum here in Australia, for example, come back to this part of episode 170 with Tim Hollo, author of ‘Living Democracy: An ecological manifesto for the end of the world as we know it’. And particularly the part where he said: “And I asked Amanda if there was a secret ingredient that sits behind it [the incredible success stories she’s worked on]. And what she told me has just echoed in my head forever since. And she just said simply, ‘don’t ask people to pick a side’.” We go on to talk here about the late great Elinor Ostrom, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize for economics. I had never heard of her till just prior to this episode. But she’s a big part of Tim’s book, and I later learned a big influence on previous guest Charles Massy, and an upcoming guest Charles introduced me to, former investment banker Justyn Walsh. A number of people said to me at the time that this episode completely changed the way they think and feel about what’s possible. Perhaps this excerpt can help us through this particular moment, and guide us back, or further, to the work that we know actually does bring people together and, quite often, results in outcomes that are genuinely extraordinary - but on the other hand, could very well become the norm. To hear the conversation in full, head to episode 170, ‘Changing What’s Possible’ . Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on Little Black Mountain in Canberra on 17 April 2023. Title slide: overlooking the nation’s capital Canberra, on another walk up a hill (pic: Anthony James). For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Now to the Future, by FourPlay String Quartet (featuring Ti Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Tue, October 24, 2023
179. Coming to a Head in the Kimberley (Part 2): Chris Henggeler on the donkey situation, wildlife management & microbiome mysteries
Welcome to part two of Coming to a Head in the Kimberley, featuring one of the great stories of regeneration, and one of the most spectacular regions in the world, at a time when both are acutely on the line. Join us back at Kachana Station in the East Kimberley, with award-winning regenerative pastoralist Chris Henggeler. We pick up the conversation from part one here, on the latest with the donkey situation. Since we last visited Kachana, the state department that ordered the donkeys at Kachana be shot as pests, and the Henggeler family that has geared their behavior towards regeneration, have been in mediation at the State Administrative Tribunal. The Tribunal’s adjudication on that appeal is due before year’s end. It will carry with it the fate of the donkeys at Kachana, and with that the fate of a potential game-changer in regeneration at scale across the region – at a time when it’s desperately needed. We talk here about the latest developments, research, language, history and other complexities on the matter - including the donkeys the Henggelers do shoot at Kachana. And we end up comparing notes on Chris’s related personal efforts with some paradigm changing health practices. This thoughtful dialogue plunges into the intricate ties between biodiversity and domestication, sparking intriguing debates on managing both wild and domestic animals. We ponder over the immense significance of local wisdom and nature-informed decision-making in sculpting our future. It's an enlightening journey that challenges our understanding of relationships and responsibility, both towards ourselves and our planet. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect). This episode was recorded at Kachana Station on 23 August 2023. Title slide: Kachana Station (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: You can hear part one of this conversation (with photos and links), at Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joi
S7 Enull · Wed, October 18, 2023
179. Coming to a Head in the Kimberley: Chris Henggeler on regenerating consciousness, community & Country
Chris Henggeler and his family manage Kachana Station in the East Kimberley, only accessible by foot or air. They took responsibility for this desertified and abandoned country, and have achieved some incredible regeneration, culminating last year in a State Soil Health Champion award. Yet with still vast lands desertifying around them, and so much opportunity to build on models like Kachana, we recorded an episode out there two years ago titled Wanted Land Doctors. Now the second most popular episode on this podcast, it was a powerful invitation for the next generations to join the fray, and how the rest of us can help them do it. But there is trouble afoot. The regeneration at Kachana Station has incorporated and relied on not just cattle, but wild donkeys. The bond these animals share with this Station family is clear. But just before we recorded that episode two years ago, the state department ordered the family to gun them down as pests. The Henggelers appealed the order. And the State Tribunal process adjudicating on that appeal is coming to a head in a few weeks. In parallel, you could say, the Kimberley itself is coming to a head. Forecast to suffer unliveable heat in the coming decades, with ‘climate refugees’ already heading south, and worsening floods like this year's at Fitzroy Crossing. So this week, Chris and I draw some of the broader patterns together. And we hear the latest on how they're being turned around at Kachana, and beyond. That leads us to a deep dive on some of the best stories, thinking and intuitive wisdom we’re coming across, that are helping more heads and hearts come together across divides, to make more of the good stuff happen. Next week, part 2 of this episode will feature a full and telling update on the donkey situation. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect). Recorded on 23 August 2023. Title slide: Chris Henggeler & friends (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Aust Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S7 Enull · Tue, October 10, 2023
178. Navigating the Emotional Echoes of the Referendum: Heidi Mippy, on the Voice to Parliament & beyond
Heidi Mippy is a Noongar and Thiin-Mah Warriyangka woman, and a pioneer in Aboriginal education support and community development. For over 25 years, Heidi’s been leading and sharing in many brilliant success stories, with renowned integrity, smarts and spirit. Here, Heidi joins Anthony in the lead up to Australia’s national referendum on an Aboriginal Voice to Parliament this weekend, with no predetermined agenda, clear cut positions, or knowledge of what each other was thinking, going in. We hope this very personal and raw conversation adds something to your deliberations too, as the referendum approaches, and beyond. In an atmosphere charged with emotions and complexities, Heidi and Anthony unravel layers of history, government initiatives, and community expectations. From the polarising conversations within the community to the anxieties that cloud the day after the referendum. We also examine the potential of the referendum, and the Uluru Statement as a whole, and the challenges that loom ahead either way. But this isn't just about the referendum. It's about the power of community, the potency of 'what ifs', and how to harness that together to finally address our most urgent of needs, and realise our greatest of opportunities. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded online on 9 October 2023. And produced with human intelligence. Title slide: Heidi Mippy ( sourced here ). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Heidi Mippy on LinkedIn. Voice to Parliament referendum 2023. Australian government fact sheet on the Voice. You can hear the previous time Heidi was on the podcast in Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value wh
S7 Enull · Wed, October 04, 2023
177. Bunuba Elder Jimmy Dillon Andrews, on Jandamarra, spiritual power & building cultural enterprise
Welcome back to Fitzroy Crossing. Jimmy Dillon Andrews is a highly respected Bunuba elder and founder of Bungoolee Tours, nationally renowned for the cultural experiences it guides people through. These include journeys deep beneath the limestone of the Napier Range into Tunnel Creek, and through the heart of the incredible Windjana Gorge, carved from a 35O million year old Devonian Reef. The spiritual significance of these places to the Bunuba people is immense, having tended all this for at least 46,000 years. They’re also central to the legend of famed Aboriginal warrior Jandamarra. Jimmy is a descendent of Jandamarra, describing him as a ‘man of magical power’. The story of Jandamarra is one of this Country’s most gripping and important ones, that still too few of us know about. So we’re fortunate to hear Jimmy share it here. Along with some other stories foundational to this Country, from footy, to of course the extraordinary flood this year. We go on to explore the keys to his enterprise success, and his visions for the future (along with the Voice referendum). And all with Jimmy’s unhurried, quietly spoken gravitas - as if whispering long-accrued secrets of Country. Join us, on a now dry patch of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River bed, by the old Fitzroy Crossing. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded on the bed of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River at the old Fitzroy Crossing on 9 August 2023. Title slide: Jimmy Dillon Andrews during the conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Song performed live by Jimmy Dillon Andrews. Find more: Bungoolee Tours. For more photos of the Martuwarra and Fitzroy Crossing, see the episode web page of ep.176 Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S7 Enull · Wed, September 27, 2023
176. The Water has Passed but the Earth has Shifted: Natalie Davey on listening to Country
Welcome to a very special episode, months in the making. Natalie Davey was last on the podcast nearly 2 years ago. It’s still the sixth most popular episode. Natalie is a community leader from Fitzroy Crossing, with Bunuba-Walmajarri, English and Scottish heritage. She’s a Traditional Custodian of the magnificent Martuwarra Fitzroy River. She’s also a broadcaster with the local Wangki radio, an artist, educator, and former ranger. She was the first Indigenous Chair, too, of highly respected not-for-profit Environs Kimberley – until her life was turned upside down by the worst flood event in West Australian recorded history at the start of this year. Many will be familiar with the extraordinary unprecedented rainfall. But what you might not be familiar with is that while the water has passed, the earth has shifted. Figuratively, and literally. Some things that weren’t washed away, like the enormous Fitzroy Crossing bridge, were buried. Coming into Fitzroy this time, we’d been wondering if there was a fuller story to tell. We found so much more than expected. Like what part our land management may have played in the damage. How community mobilised ahead of designated agencies in some crucial ways. The art and meaning that has flowed from disaster. How competing narratives confuse causes for solutions. And ultimately, how there are ways the community is responding successfully to not only the flood but, in related ways, to other issues like the youth crime waves that have been splashed across national media. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded by the Martuwarra Fitzroy River on 8 August 2023. Title slide: Natalie Davey & Anthony James (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, from the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: You can hear Natalie from our visit 2 years ago Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Do
Bonus · Wed, September 20, 2023
156 Excerpt. Daniel Christian Wahl: ‘It’s the change of being that ultimately makes a difference’
A very special episode from flood-ravaged Fitzroy Crossing, with Traditional Custodian of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, Natalie Davey, has been weeks in the making and is almost finished. Stay tuned for that next week! Today is an excerpt of episode 156 featuring the last 25 minutes or so with globally renowned writer, educator and consultant, Daniel Christian Wahl, at a very sensitive time in his life. Our conversation was ostensibly winding up, but some deep personal reflections on life, language and place, learning, schooling and parenting, and the power of transformation, gathered their own momentum. We pick it up with Daniel’s deeply felt experience as a newcomer to his home in Mallorca (the Anne we’re talking about is mutual friend, Aboriginal elder Anne Poelina). We go on to compare notes about parenting, learning and schooling for regeneration, that went on to explore general processes of connection and transformation. And the power we scarcely realise we can access by working in these ways. Here’s part of the blurb from the full episode: Daniel Christian Wahl is the world-renowned author of Designing Regenerative Cultures, still being translated into various languages years after release. Daniel’s also called himself a consultant, educator, activist, speaker, blogger, weaver, catalyst - he’s also become a farmer of sorts, which you’ll hear more about today, along with some other very interesting and relevant parts of his life – like marine biology, martial arts, permaculture, his ongoing learning with elders, and how he looks to live it all, in what has become his home in Mallorca, Spain. To hear the conversation in full, tune into episode 156 , where you'll also find a few links. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded online with Daniel at home in Mallorca, on 15 March 2023. Title slide: Daniel Christian Wahl ( source ). For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider becoming a subscriber via Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Tue, September 12, 2023
150 Excerpt. Carol Sanford, as No More Gold Stars comes out (& brief update)
What a week at the regenerative agriculture conference in Margaret River. Fair to say we’re still buzzing, and recovering. More on that later. Normal podcasting will resume next week, but this week has actually been lined up for a while – in anticipation of that recovery, and the release of a very special book. Carol Sanford’s new – and sadly last – book is out this week. It’s called No More Gold Stars: Regenerating Capacity to Think for Ourselves. You might remember her talking about it back at the start of the year in a profound 150th episode, that drew such a wave of response from so many of you. This is an excerpt of that episode featuring the last 20 minutes or so of our conversation. We pick it up at a particularly poignant and funny moment, where Carol is talking about one of her many great success stories in engaging with business globally in education and leadership. This led to my voicing a hint of doubt about the capacity of big business to change adequately, given the way the systems and structures are oriented. I was summarily admonished, in a way I enjoyed then, and recount still. Here’s part of the blurb from the full episode: Starting the year with Carol Sanford feels incredibly special. She’s been at the heart of what we might call the ‘regenerative paradigm’ for decades. Friends and colleagues have spoken about her with me for years, right up until the end of last year. And last month, a previous guest and author of Sand Talk, Tyson Yunkaporta, featured Carol on his podcast. That’s when I learned the sad news that she has only a few months to live. When I wrote to her expressing my care and respect, and to see if she’d possibly be up for a chat with another Aussie podcaster, she said sure, but ‘I am declining and so can’t wait long.’ Days later, we shared this conversation. To hear the conversation in full tune into episode 150 , A Regenerative Life: Carol Sanford on living, dying & changing paradigms, where you'll also find a few links. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 2 February 2023. Title slide: Carol Sanford (source: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
Bonus · Tue, September 05, 2023
169 Excerpt. Matilda Brown & Scott Gooding on the Power of Food in Healing, Business & Regeneration
We’ve landed in Margaret River, ahead of its major regenerative agriculture conference, with a live Q&A screening of Rachel’s Farm raising the curtain tonight. Anthony will be hosting director Rachel Ward, in conversation with another previous guest on the podcast, Jade Miles . In the film, Rachel raises the rest of the picture of regeneration – regenerating supply chains. And this is where her daughter Matilda (featuring profoundly in the film also), and her partner Scott Gooding, have taken up the mantle. Though that came after some uninterested mocking of mother, and sharing some traumatic health troubles and startling nutrition-led recoveries. This is an excerpt of episode 169 featuring the last 25 minutes or so of our conversation, recorded at dusk on the family farm earlier this year – having recorded with Rachel for episode 168 earlier that day. We pick it up with Scott's healing journey. And follow that into the creation - and re-creation - of The Good Farm Shop . Here’s part of the blurb from the full episode: Join us in this heart-warming conversation with Matilda Brown, daughter of renowned actors Bryan Brown and Rachel Ward, and Scott Gooding, ‘celebrity chef’ and author of The Sustainable Diet. Together, they share their unexpected journey into the world of regenerative farming, their thoughts on food sovereignty, and how their combined passion for cooking, creativity, and healthy, sustainable living, led to the creation of the Good Farm Shop. To hear the conversation in full, head to episode 169 (see the link below). Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 10 April 2023. Title slide: Matilda, Scott & Anthony (pic: Matilda Brown). For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Find more: T Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Mon, August 28, 2023
167 Excerpt. Next Generation Farming: North Arm Farms' Seven-Way Cooperative, Community Ties & Organic Decertification
We’re now heading south from the Kimberley towards Margaret River for the regenerative agriculture conference next week. One brilliant couple who’ll be there, and who appear in the film Rachel’s Farm being shown on the eve of the conference, is Kaycee Simuong and Tom Macindoe. This is an excerpt of episode 167 featuring the last 25 minutes or so of our conversation, recorded after visiting Rachel, up the Valley at their 400 acre farm of forest and grassland regeneration, with extraordinary market garden. Here’s part of the blurb from the full episode: Tom and Kaycee are descendents of Scottish highlanders and Lao rice farmers (& somewhat accidental refugees) respectively. And as it happens, Kaycee spent some formative time in the Kimberley (at Mornington) when she was 19. Now she’s with Tom running Mandarin Bend Farm, in the beautiful Nambucca Valley, Gumbaynggirr Country, on the mid-north coast of NSW. But not only that. With a bunch of neighbouring producers, they’ve gone on to start the North Arm Farms coop – a unique food to market set up, with deep community roots, stewardship ethos, and enterprise model that sends 100% of what we spend on our food directly to the farmers. This is where we pick up the conversation. To hear the conversation in full, head to episode 167 (see the link below). Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 11 April 2023. Title slide: Kaycee & Tom (pic: Anthony James). For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Find more: Tune into the full episode 167 , where you'll also find some photos and a few links. Join us at the Regenerative Agriculture Conference in Margaret River next week, September 2023 – you can get tix for the Rachel’s Farm screening on the Tuesday evening, 5 September, on the program web page. Rachel will be in conversation with Anthony James and Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consi
Bonus · Wed, August 23, 2023
168 Excerpt. At Rachel’s Farm, with Rachel Ward & Mick Green
We’re back at Kachana Station this week, the site of the second most listened to episode on this podcast . And we've just recorded an update from here that will be out soon. But as recent guest Rachel Ward makes her way around the country, screening her new film and speaking with communities, news has arrived she’ll be doing likewise ahead of the major regenerative agriculture conference in Margaret River WA in a couple of weeks now. Episode 168 featured two chapters in effect – the first was with Rachel alone, and in the second we were joined by regenerative farming co-conspirator, and co-star in the film, Mick Green. This excerpt is that second chapter, recorded at Rachel’s farm earlier this year. Here’s the opening blurb from episode 168: Imagine transforming a cattle farm and family retreat into a carbon-sequestering biodiversity haven. What would it take? And how and why would you do it if you're a famed actress and filmmaker? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rachel Ward, who embarked on this journey alongside former industrialised farmer and coal miner Mick Green. Their story is now the first Australian feature film on regenerative agriculture, and Rachel's first documentary. 'Rachel's Farm' has just premiered to acclaim in Sydney and Santa Barbara, and Rachel is about to tour the film around the country. To hear the conversation in full, including ‘chapter one’ with Rachel and host Anthony, head to episode 168 (see the link below). Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on 10 April 2023. Title slide: Rachel’s farm (pic: Anthony James). For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden. Find more: Tune into the full episode 168 , where you'll also find some photos and a few links, including the film trailer and tour dates. Join us at the Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
Bonus · Mon, August 14, 2023
154 Excerpt. Rosemary Morrow on Incorporating Global Wisdom into Modern Permaculture for Systemic Change
We’ve been recording in Fitzroy Crossing this week, and reflecting on the blessing of hearing from a number of elders here in the Kimberley. This includes one of the recordings from Fitzroy which will be out soon. And today, as we prepare to leave this permaculture paradise of recent guest, Wendy Albert, and head back to Kachana Station, it brought to mind another permaculture legend who cut her teeth here in the Kimberley – as a 15 year old jillaroo back in the ‘50s. This is an excerpt of episode 154 with Rowe, featuring the last 20 minutes or so of our conversation. It was recorded near Fremantle WA late last year, when she was touring her new, fully revised, classic tome of the ‘90s - the Earth Restorer’s Guide to Permaculture. It even closes with Rowe reciting some old station songs from her time in the Kimberley, before a few of her favourite people, in the Formidable Vegetable band, lend us a song to go out with (celebrating their new album launch at the time). We pick up the conversation from where Rowe talks of permaculture needing to take next steps now – to go from being an ‘alternative’ to becoming part of the way things are generally done. She lays down the gauntlet for those who are ready to embrace a journey that explores the transformative power of permaculture and its potential to instigate systemic change. And explores how coming together with the wisdom of traditional cultures can help lead to planetary restoration. Rowe goes on to talk about the courage of various women that have inspired her. There are tales of bravery and endurance from the Quaker women during the Vietnam War, Las Abuelas of Argentina, and the Black Sash women in Africa. We also hear about the crucial role she sees in engaging with local governments. And as we wrap up, we chat about who's taking up the mantle of Rosemary's enormous legacy, and the unique part music plays in connecting us across cultures and traditions. To hear the conversation in full, head to episode 154 (see the link below). Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully provides greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded on 24 November 2022. For behind the scenes footage and other benefits, including helping to keep the podcast going, please consider Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Mon, August 07, 2023
152 Excerpt. It’s Re-Connection: Zach Bush, Ella Noah Bancroft & Tanya Massy, live in Byron Bay
There was some big news last week. The Farmer’s Footprint Australia team announced they’ll be staging a major festival in November. It will feature the return to these shores of Zach Bush, with Charles Eisenstein beaming in online, alongside a host of brilliant Australian speakers and artists. To get us in the mood, keep the connections alive from last year’s tour, and just in case you missed it, here’s an excerpt of the last 25 minutes or so of the panel conversation that brought the house down in Byron Bay in December last year. This is Zach Bush, Ella Noah Bancroft and Tanya Massy, hosted in conversation by Anthony James. To hear the conversation in full, head to episode 152 (see the link below). Ella Noah Bancroft is a Bundjalung woman and founder of The Returning. Tanya Massy is a regenerative farmer and award-winning writer. You can more about Ella and Tanya at the start of the full episode 152. And for those less familiar with Zach, he’s the highly decorated physician who’s become globally renowned for his work on the microbiome as the basis of all human and planetary health. He’s since become a co-founder of Farmer’s Footprint, a not-for-profit in the US supporting farmers who are regenerating their landscapes to produce healthy, nutrient-dense food for a healthy planet. And last year, Zach supported Blair Beattie and the growing team here, to launch Farmer’s Footprint Australia. This part of the conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore the shift in the current paradigm. We examine what it means for companies like Nestle to be calling on Zach to help spearhead change, and how municipalities like Byron Bay could become the keystones of change in Australia. We also chat about the benefits of reconnecting with First Nations and local farmers, including via a proposed new model of farmland investment, one centered on creating diverse stewards of the land rather than corporate ownership or extraction. Finally, we bask in the healing power of nature and music. We shed light on how nature can help us understand our belief systems, express ourselves, and restore our nervous systems. Head here for chapter markers (or to the embedded player on the episode web page), and an imperfect AI-generated transcript of this conversation. Recorded in the Byron Bay Community Centre theatre, on 6 December 2022. Title slide: Anthony introducing proceedings (pic: Elle Jeffrey). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.<
S7 Enull · Tue, August 01, 2023
175. Doing the Impossible: Judith Schwartz on transcending our impasses to heal the earth & each other
Ten years ago now, award-winning writer and journalist, Judith Schwartz wrote the book ‘Cows Save the Planet: and Other Improbable Ways of Restoring Soil to Heal the Earth'. Then came 'Water In Plain Sight: Hope for a Thirsty World'. And then, a few years ago, in an extraordinary global tour of earth repair, came 'The Reindeer Chronicles: and Other Inspiring Stories of Working With Nature to Heal the Earth'. That award-winning book featured stories from Norway, Spain, Hawai’i, New Mexico, the Middle East, and Australia – Kachana Station, in fact, the 200,000 acre station in the East Kimberley that’s the subject of the 2nd most listened to episode on this podcast – and a critical flashpoint right now. Among Judy’s stories, there’s something in particular about the one from New Mexico that stands to assist all the others, and what’s to come. It’s a story that’s shaped the next phase of Judith’s life in some ways, and is arguably the leading edge of what we need most right now. Given the stories of regeneration in every sphere are everywhere now, we can say we do broadly know what to do, and who can help the rest of us join in. So what’s stopping us? And how can we get beyond the entrenched beliefs and patterns that are holding us back? Some of what Judy’s written up, and has gone on with personally since, is almost too amazing to be true. Indeed, as we’ve heard on this podcast recently from people like Tim Hollo, Amanda Cahill, and Katherine Trebeck, we do know of processes too, that answer those crucial questions. And one consistent thread in these processes, is how contemplating the apparently impossible can change everything. Interestingly, it’s also consistent with processes that elite athletes are increasingly engaging in. Judy calls it the approach of thinking ‘wouldn’t it be cool if …?’ And hearing how Judy’s own path of deep healing has converged with these bigger stories of regeneration, even how she’s become a black belt in her 60s, that does sound cool. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded at the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation on 28 July 2023 Australian time. Title slide: Judith Schwartz (pic: Tony Eprile). To see Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Tue, July 25, 2023
174. The Ambassador: Wendy Albert’s permaculture paradise, systemic regeneration & legendary Kimberley life
Join us on an insightful journey with Kimberley legend Wendy Albert, a woman who's lived an extraordinary life, challenging the status quo and advocating for sustainable living. From her early years growing up on a farm, to joining Mother Teresa's sisterhood, Wendy's experiences have shaped her into a fierce advocate for food security and sustainable agriculture in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, and beyond. Wendy is the owner/manager of Kimberley Cottages, and Windjana Wellness and Sustainability Services. And this is where we are blessed to be based when we’re up this way - rained upon daily by tropical fruit, veg and herbs. And inspired by this septuagenarian great grandmother enabling it all. In some ways, she’s still just gearing up, and continuing to invite others in to make more of the running on the foundations laid. But how all this came to be, is another story. Well, many! Wendy’s ultimate migration to the Kimberley came after a chance meeting in Central Australia with the late great musician and actor Stephen ‘Baamba’ Albert. Eulogised as the ‘Patron Saint of Broome’, Stephen was a co-creator of iconic theatre and film productions like Bran Nue Dae. All the while, Wendy herself was continuing to blaze other trails in Broome, and later here - from the phenomenal Kimberley Bookshop and Magabala Books, to a pivotal Royal Commission, and on to the transformation of a landscape and health-centered food systems over profit-driven ones. And on that, we hear how the former can have enormous effects on youth crime epidemics too, and a cautionary tone on new slogans like 'green ammonia'. Join us at Wendy's place, on a beautiful sunny morning amidst this season’s tropical bounty. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded at Wendy’s place on 20 July 2023. Title slide: Wendy Albert. See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directl
S7 Enull · Wed, July 19, 2023
173. Manchán Magan on Language & Land, from Ireland to the Kimberley
Welcome to a new series of episodes from the Kimberley, in far north Western Australia. First up, prepare for a transformative journey as we're joined by Manchán Magan, the acclaimed Irish travel writer, documentary maker, radio producer, theatre performer, builder of the first straw-bale house in Ireland, regenerator of the 10 acre block it stands on, and best-selling author. Manchán’s books include ‘32 Words for Field: Lost words of the Irish landscape’, which is said to have begun as a cult hit in Ireland, but has become one of its most talked-about books in recent times. And his latest book is ‘Listen to the Land Speak: A journey into the wisdom of what lies beneath us’. Manchán masterfully delves into the wealth of knowledge encoded in ancient languages, mythology, and stories of the land. His belief in the power of this wisdom everywhere, and the urgency to understand and protect the cultures of the land – and above all, stemming from a recent visit to Australia, Aboriginal cultures - is compelling. Remarkably for the life he’s led, Manchán says that this visit to Australia has had a greater impact on him than any other. ‘It has changed everything’, he says. And this encounter might just be changing everything for Anthony too, tapping his Irish roots, and the ancient mycelium network of language and land connecting us all. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded at 6DBY of the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation (featured in one of the most popular episodes, no. 95) on 14 July 2023. Title slide: Manchán Magan. Click on the photos below to zoom in, and hover over them to see captions where added. See more photos on the episode web page, and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Manchán Magan inc. tour dates . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, av
Bonus · Sat, July 15, 2023
172 Extra. Come Work in Roebourne: Some candid off the record yarning & an invitation
After we finished this week's conversation with our distinguished guest, Indigenous artist and community leader, Patrick Churnside, some off-the-record yarning was also recorded. We decided to release it as a bonus 10 minute extra, given its rich and candid exchanges, which also culminated in an invitation to Roebourne. As it happens, it comes at a time when there is a wonderful position going at the Digital Lab (see the PDF file below if you're interested). Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded at the Big hART Digital Lab on 6 June 2023. Title slide: Roebourne / Ieramugadu, from the lookout Patrick talks about in the main episode (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on that main episode web page (link below), and to see more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music at the end: Patrick tinkering on guitar before we started our conversation. Find more: Tune into our full conversation for episode 172 , Songlines for Freedom. You'll see photos there too, and the PDF of the position description for a Digital Arts Producer (for immediate action if you're interested). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, ra
S7 Enull · Wed, July 12, 2023
172. Songs for Freedom: Patrick Churnside on new album, national tour & changing our stories
The north-west shelf of Western Australia is said to be where the Songlines of this continent began. No surprise then, that the people here would be showcasing and reconnecting their convergent and resurgent cultures in spectacular ways – via the media, projects and enterprises we talked about in the previous episode - and with the Songs for Freedom project. Join us back in Roebourne / Ieramugadu with Patrick Churnside, a Traditional Custodian from the Ngarluma and Yindjibarndi language groups, who is at the heart of Songs for Freedom, and so much else. Earlier this year, with a leading arts and social change organisation in Australia called Big hART, and a host of star performers from around Australia, Patrick and the community here launched the Songs for Freedom album, at the start of its ongoing national tour. The mission and message is for us to come together to change the drastic over-incarceration of Indigenous youth and children in Australia. What's been dubbed The Freedom Collective seeks to change this story nationally, and they’re changing the story for themselves locally too. The New Roebourne project, with the support of elders, has seen many years now of strong community involvement creating music, theatre, performance and digital content. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded at the Big hART Digital Lab on 6 June 2023. Title slide: Patrick Churnside performing Songs for Freedom in Perth / Boorloo, March 2023 (pic: Linda Dunjey). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Sunrise Tjaabi & Sunset Tjaabi, performed live by Patrick Churnside from the Songs for Freedom album. Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Songs for Freedom project including new album and national tour dates culminating in September. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hea
S7 Enull · Thu, July 06, 2023
171. Ngaarda Media: Tangiora Hinaki on trailblazing media, resurgent cultures, & the latest on Murujuga, Title Fight & Voice
Roebourne / Ieramugadu is a small town in the Pilbara region of WA, and it’s at the heart of an extraordinary resurgence of ancient cultures that still flies largely under the radar, and in the face of ongoing threats. Part of that resurgence, and covering it, is Ngaarda Media, an independent community broadcaster and media training hub, representing and empowering the Aboriginal people (ngaarda) of the Pilbara. And heading up the organisation is Tangiora Hinaki. Tangiora is a Māori woman who ventured from New Zealand Aotearoa to the Pilbara, where a serendipitous encounter changed the course of her life, and the media landscape in this part of the country. We talk here about her amazing story, the transformation of Ngaarda Media, the survival and revival of ancient cultures here, and the latest news on several significant breaking fronts. This includes what’s been happening at the incredible Murujuga / Burrup Peninsula since the police raid of the Ngaarda Media house became global news in April. Just prior to the raid, Ngaarda was covering the removal of sacred rock art sites for industry expansion. We also get the latest on where we left off with Paul Cleary, the best-selling author of Title Fight: How the Yindjibarndi Battled and Defeated a Mining Giant , as that mining giant continues to mine their land without permission or payment. We canvas the vibe around the Voice referendum too. While exploring some of the many exceptional aspects of cultural resurgence radiating out from in and around the developing studios of Ngaarda Media. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers (also available on the embedded player on the episode web page), and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). Recorded at Ngaarda Media on 7 June 2023. Title slide: Tangiora Hinaki before this conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, av
S7 Enull · Thu, June 29, 2023
170. Changing What’s Possible: Tim Hollo on stories of living democracy & the power of community
Prepare to be moved and enlightened as we explore the transformative power of community and deliberative democracy with today's special guest, Tim Hollo. Tim is so thoroughly recasting our notions of what’s possible, through stories of what’s actually happening right now, across a host of different contexts, and with countless possibilities to go on with, that are successfully creating the democratic systems and cultures we need for widespread regeneration. Tim Hollo is Executive Director of The Green Institute, founder of Green Music Australia, has recorded and toured globally with the FourPlay String Quartet (you’ll hear a tune from them in this episode), and he’s just written a book called ‘Living Democracy: An ecological manifesto for the end of the world as we know it’. Our conversation delves into the power of community engagement in shaping our political systems for the better. We explore alternative governance and justice models that serve communities better, including the growing community independents movement in Australia, the incredible Kurdish example of municipalist confederalism, successful Aboriginal judicial processes, and the power of therapeutic jurisprudence. We then examine the transformative journey of Barcelona, Participatory City in the UK, and the inspiring work of previous podcast guest Amanda Cahill (ep 134) back here in Australia, unpacking how community-led initiatives foster a sense of abundance and connection, often resulting in the disarming of racism, division and hard right votes at elections. And we wrap up with a look at deliberative democracy, its potential to reshape deeply cynical views of politics, and the promise of a more just and equitable society. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded on Little Black Mountain in Canberra on 17 April 2023. Title slide: Tim Hollo atop Little Black Mountain just before this conversation (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Now to the Future, by FourPlay String Qua Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S7 Enull · Thu, June 22, 2023
169. Feeding Change: Matilda Brown & Scott Gooding's Nutrition-Led Journey to The Good Farm Shop
Can regenerative farming and a focus on nutrition truly transform our lives? Join us in this heart-warming conversation with Matilda Brown, daughter of renowned actors Bryan Brown and Rachel Ward, and Scott Gooding, 'celebrity chef' and author of The Sustainable Diet. Together, they share their unexpected journey into the world of regenerative farming, their thoughts on food sovereignty, and how their combined passion for cooking, creativity, and healthy, sustainable living, led to the creation of the Good Farm Shop. Family, passion, and determination play a significant role in Matilda and Scott's story. Discover how Matilda's mother, last Monday's guest Rachel Ward, infused her artistic background and love for the environment into their family farm - then into her new film about it, 'Rachel’s Farm'. We'll also explore how Matilda navigated the film industry herself, before finding a surprising calling in their evolving business. And how Scott's expertise in nutrition and holistic living, and extraordinary experience of healing from debilitating injury, has been instrumental in their journey. Finally, listen in as we discuss the challenges and triumphs of running the Good Farm Shop, as an ethical, regenerative food business. From learning about holistic land management and meeting extraordinary farmers, to creating ready meals that nourish the body and soul, Matilda and Scott's story is a testament to the power of love, passion, and a commitment to regenerative living. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded at the family farm on 10 April 2023. With thanks to Blair Beattie from Farmers Footprint Australia for taking the driver’s seat on our journey to visit Rachel and family. Title slide: Matilda, Scott & family (sourced from The Good Farm Shop website ). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly
S7 Enull · Mon, June 19, 2023
168. From Movie Sets to Regenerative Farms: Rachel Ward & Mick Green on new film & new life at Rachel's Farm
Imagine transforming a cattle farm and family retreat into a carbon-sequestering biodiversity haven. What would it take? And how and why would you do it if you're a famed actress and filmmaker? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rachel Ward, who embarked on this journey alongside former industrialised farmer and coal miner Mick Green. Their story is now the first Australian feature film on regenerative agriculture, and Rachel's first documentary. 'Rachel's Farm' has just premiered to acclaim in Sydney and Santa Barbara, and Rachel is about to tour the film around the country. The first half of this conversation is with Rachel, and for the back half, we rope in Mick. Together, they share personal stories, experiences and insights on regenerative farming, the potential for more women in it, the powerful natural events that urge us to be more conscious of what we're doing, the importance of listening to the land, indigenous knowledge systems, and the liberation of frugal living in our quest for regenerative systems. We also talk about the implications of leasing land for regeneration, embracing variety in our produce, and how connectedness to the land and our food sources can be fostered, ultimately inspiring more of us to contribute to a regenerative future for ourselves, generations to come, and the planet as a whole. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (please note the transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded at Rachel’s farm, on 10 April 2023. With thanks to Blair Beattie from Farmers Footprint Australia for taking the driver’s seat on our journey south to visit Rachel & family. Title slide: Rachel Ward driving us around her wonderfully healthy farm – with grandchild asleep at the wheel (pic: Blair Beattie). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Rachel’s Farm , inc Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Wed, June 14, 2023
167. Farm Like the World Depends On It, with Kaycee Simuong & Tom Macindoe
What if you could regenerate farmland and create a sustainable farming lifestyle while also building a strong community? Join Anthony as he visits Tom and Kaycee, an innovative young farming couple from the Nambucca Valley on Gumbaynggirr Country in NSW, who are doing just that. They share their remarkable journey of stewarding 400 acres of forest and grassland into a thriving regenerative farm, and founding the North Arm Farms Co-op - a unique enterprise model that sends 100% of what we spend on our food directly to the farmers. Hear how Tom and Kaycee are adapting to the dramatically changing climate of the Nambucca Valley, from drought to fire and flooding, and how they're learning to build resilience in their farming practices. They also share their experience with a Myanmar agricultural cooperative founded by Burmese refugees. In addition to their inspiring farming journey, Kaycee and Tom have established a unique seven-way partnership to manage North Arm Farms co-op. They talk about the keys to success in that model. They also talk about their vision for protecting the land, including through traditional fire management programs and conservation agreements, as well as their decision to step away from organic certification. Their delivery van carries the slogan, ‘Farm like the world depends on it’. Head here for automatic cues to chapter markers, and a transcript of this conversation (please note this transcript is AI generated and imperfect, but hopefully serves to provide greater access to these conversations for those who need or like to read). This conversation was recorded at Mandarin Bend, on 11 April 2023. With thanks to Blair Beattie from Farmers Footprint Australia for taking the driver’s seat on our journey south from the northern rivers, to visit Tom and Kaycee. Title slide: Tom Macindoe & Kaycee Simuong on delivery day (pic: Blair Beattie). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more from behind the scenes, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Find more: Mandarin Bend Farm. North Arm Farms collective. Rachel’s Farm, final screening at the Sydney Film Festival on Saturday 17 J Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Thu, June 08, 2023
166. Australia’s ‘Wolves of Yellowstone’? With David Pollock & Zali Jestrimski at Wooleen Station
Uncannily our first visit to Wooleen Station in three years lands after Wooleen and Yellowstone were both spoken about in last week’s episode with Montanan stars, Nicole Masters and Meagan Lannan. And when it comes to shifting the sense of what’s possible, this 375,000 acre property 700 kilometres from Perth WA is taking this to new levels, as the regeneration of country, community and culture continues to generate its own momentum. A number of long-held visions are currently coming to fruition, including with young dingo educator and researcher, Zali Jestrimski. Zali’s now at the helm of a new dingo education centre at Wooleen, and some potentially game-changing research. What if it can be shown, as David suspects, that the dingoes of the Murchison region here, are having an even greater regenerative impact than the famed wolves of Yellowstone? This conversation was recorded at Wooleen Homestead, on Wednesday 24 May 2023. Title slide: Zali Jestrimski & David Pollock with Steve the dingo, at Wooleen Station (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page, and for more behind the scenes stuff, become a subscriber via the Patreon page. Find more: Wooleen Station. To hear more from David Pollock, tune into episode 111. To listen to David’s wife, Frances Pollock, back when this podcast began, tune into episode 9. Join me at the Regenerative Agriculture Conference in Margaret River in September 2023. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennar
S7 Enull · Thu, June 01, 2023
165. Voices of the Wayfinders: Leaving the Nicole Masters intensive in Orange
You don’t need to have heard last week’s episode with Nicole Masters and Meagan Lannan to listen to this one, but they certainly go together. After I was fortunate to have been welcomed in to Nicole’s intensive 4-day course near Orange in Australia last month, I was moved to conduct a kind of exit poll with a half dozen people. It wasn’t planned, so I just pulled out the lapel mic’s I always have with me for such occasions, plugged them into the phone, contemplated dealing with some breeze and departing traffic, and nabbed a few willing souls as they passed. And I was so glad I did. The last few of the six people you’ll hear from, I hadn’t met before. The first two, I’d met at the Convergence conference staged by RCS Australia in Brisbane last July. And the 3rd, as you’ll hear, I met only six months prior at the Haggerty farm here in WA. What I heard from them felt like another chapter in my observations of paradigm change happening in people wherever I go right now - and across different walks of life. And sure enough, here I was at an agriculture course, but what’s being said and felt largely applies to everything. You could even say it feels like a resurgence of some deep traditions of culture that for a while we’d lost touch with. My guests are: Dave Murphy from Farmer’s Footprint Australia Stacey Curcio from Cultivating Wellness, and also the daughter of Terry and Pam McCosker, founders of RCS Australia Emily Alexander, who happened to be at the Haggerty farm for the event that became episodes 142 and 143. Missy, a young home-school student who is running her own profitable business called The Cow Whisperer Rachael Treasure, best-selling novelist (including her most recent book that was inspired by the Haggerty’s) Jake Chandler, who stopped the room with one of his comments, which we talk about here. This conversation was recorded near Orange NSW, on 15 April 2023. Title slide: A view from the back of the room during the course (pic: Anthony James). See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Find more: To hear from Nicole herself, tune into the previous episode 164 , on training the wayfinders (you’ll see a few links there for more info too, along with some photos). Join me Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Sun, May 28, 2023
164. Nicole Masters & Meagan Lannan on Training the Wayfinders
Nicole Masters is a globally recognised agroecologist, speaker and author of the book ‘For the Love of Soil’. Meagan Lannan is an award-winning rancher at Barney Creek Livestock in Montana, within the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Nicole and Meagan toured two sold out education programs in Australia last month. First up, 126 people convened for 4 days near the town of Orange, and I was fortunate to be welcomed along for the ride. It was actually Nicole’s first time back in Australia since her scheduled book tour of 55 dates was cancelled due to covid. We last spoke for the podcast during that time in 2020, when Nicole was in the midst of her own transformations. A few years on, and this program is touring the world, with its focus on training the wayfinders in regenerative soil, systems and life-giving practice. No surprise in that sense, we end up talking polyvagal theory, regenerative finance, shifting consciousness, the education processes that cultivate all that, and a bit of song and dance. This conversation was recorded at Tombarra near Braidwood in NSW, on 22 April 2023. Title slide: Nicole Masters & Meagan Lannan riverside at Tombarra (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode webpage below, and for more behind the scenes pics become a subscriber via the Patreon page. With great thanks to Dave Murphy and Farmer’s Footprint Australia , for supporting my journey to the Orange intensive. Thanks also to Grahame Rees , local co-host of that intensive, and Martin Royds, co-host of the Tombarra gathering, for your great generosity. And Martin, for showing us around your extraordinary regenerative work at Jillamatong . Find more: Integrity Soils. For more with Nicole Masters (including other links, and photos on the episode web page), listen to episode 72, Restoring the Metropolis of Living Earth: From the chemical paradigm to nature’s paradigm, with Nicole Masters . Barney Creek Livestock , where Meagan, Pete and family live. To Which We Belong , the film that Nicole and Meagan f Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Mon, May 15, 2023
163. Regenerating a Region: Jeff Pow on how a regenerative, cruelty-free food system thrives or folds
Jeff Pow is at the helm of an extraordinary story of regeneration. You might remember Jeff and his wife Michelle McManus from episode 78, when I first visited them at Southampton Homestead back at the end of 2020. (They were also later highlighted among some globally esteemed names in the acknowledgements of Paul Hawken’s book Regeneration.) Since then, I’d been seeing the land there go from strength to strength. And I’d been hearing about how their pasture-raised poultry (as distinct from so-called free-range), and their micro-processing systems, were now enabling regional regeneration – of country, community and economy. Even in the face of COVID, more fires, and still finding themselves constantly on the brink of folding. Attempts and experiments with partners to create market systems that get us eaters this nutritious, cruelty-free and regenerative food, and these farmers a livelihood, maybe even the means to do more of their great work, aren’t working. This is still too often the missing piece, it seems. So what shift in lens, and systems, can bring us all together in these situations, to enable the regeneration I’m seeing at Southampton and elsewhere, to happen everywhere? We start in space, believe it or not. Then come back to earth with how torturously chicken appears in supermarkets, but how brilliantly it happens here. And how it all hinges on the possibilities we explore next. This chat was recorded at Southampton Homestead near Balingup WA on 30 April 2023. Title slide: Jeff Pow and Michelle McManus at Southampton. See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Southampton Homestead. Dirty Clean Food’s terrific profile page on Jeff and Michelle’s operation. Dirty Clean Food’s online shop for pasture-raised poultry , including from Southampton (it looks like hovering over the pictures brings up the Southampton logo when it’s from there). For more with Jeff Pow & Michelle McManus (inc Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Thu, May 11, 2023
162. Tim Winton on Ningaloo Nyinggulu: An epic film series & tour
This is a special release episode with Tim Winton, broadly considered the preeminent Australian writer of his generation. And not just in Australia. His books have been translated into 28 languages, sold millions of copies, and resulted in numerous prestigious awards (including another one just this week). He’s also in the Australian Surfing Awards Hall of Fame, and has a species of native Australian fish named in his honour. But over the last few years, we were aware Tim had jumped in the deep end as writer, narrator and executive producer of a major film production. Ningaloo Nyinggulu surfaced at a community screening in Exmouth a few days ago, and will premiere nationwide in Australia on Tuesday 16 May, having also just launched globally as Ningaloo Nyinggulu: Australia’s Ocean Wonder. The blurb reads: ‘Over three episodes filmed in remote Western Australia, Tim shares the wonders of the place that has inspired his work for decades, joining Traditional Owners, scientists and other experts to understand how Ningaloo endures as a mighty global lifeboat of biodiversity, and showcases why it is a beacon of hope in the face of an extinction crisis and climate emergency.’ This story is grounded in rich cultural heritage dating back more than 40,000 years, in a place that colonial Australia had once destined to be little more than a quarry and oilfield. Over 2000 hours of footage was shot over a 2-year period for this, portraying the extraordinary resurgence of culture and country happening here. You’ll also hear some of the wonderful soundtrack from the film, in this episode. This conversation was recorded on 5 May 2023. Title slide: Tim releasing a very eager rescued turtle (from the film). See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . The Sargassum piece, by Ash Gibson Greig , off the soundtrack for Ningaloo Nyinggulu, with the kind permission of Artemis Media and the artist. Find more: Watch the trailer of Ningaloo Nyinggulu. It premieres in Australia on the ABC from Tuesday 16 May 2023. The global release can be streamed on L Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Mon, May 08, 2023
161. Regenerating Investment in Food & Farming: Live launch of a paradigm changing report & project
In last week’s episode, we heard from Dr Katherine Trebeck on the latest significant developments in the domain of wellbeing, regenerative or just plain good economics. You might remember Katherine alluded to a brilliant conversation she had been part of a few days prior, for the launch of a major new report and project by not-for-profit outfit, Sustainable Table. Regenerative farmer and award-winning writer, Tanya Massy, is the lead author of that report, part of an all-star team frankly, including a number of past guests on this podcast. And on this day, she and Katherine were joined by two truly trailblazing international guests, CEO of Cienaga Capital, Esther Park, and CEO of Steward, Dan Miller. With an opening statement from Wiradjuri man and director at Black Duck Foods, Joshua Staines. 3.00 - Anthony setting the scene 7.20 - Panel conversation 56.30 - Tanya Massy re a stand out case study from the report, leading into audience questions 83.50 - Tanya’s closing words including how we can each engage from here. Head here for automatic cues to those chapter markers. This conversation was recorded online with live audience on 20 April 2023. Title slide: A screen shot of the panel and some of the Sustainable Table team on the day (L-R: CEO Jade Miles, Megan O’Malley, Kristie Van de Velde, Anthony James, Tanya Massy, Katherine Trebeck, Jess Eddy, Esther Park, Justin Wolfgang, Hayley Morris, Dan Miller). See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Sustainable Table web version of the report . Hear more from Tanya Massy on episode 115 , Serenity Hill on episode 126 , and Jade Miles on episode 128 . A Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Mon, May 01, 2023
160. Beyond Profit, Financial Returns & GDP, with Dr Katherine Trebeck
Dr Katherine Trebeck helps make sense of the state of our economy, amidst recurrent gloomy global forecasts, and stark reports about what’s really driving such drastic inflation and inequality. All that informs the back half of our chat on some recent significant global shifts towards economies that make more sense here and now, and that are inherently designed to work well for people and planet. This includes an opportunity to get involved here in Australia, with our federal government’s current initiative, and last week’s major project launch by the Sustainable Table team. And we look at some of the stories that are really blazing the trail - beyond profit, financial returns and GDP. Dr Katherine Trebeck is co-founder of the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance and the group of Wellbeing Economy Governments. Now back in Australia, Katherine is also a senior advisor for The Next Economy (featured in episode 134 of the podcast), and co-author of The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a Grown Up Economy. This conversation was recorded in Canberra on 23 April 2023. Title slide: Katherine Trebeck, just as we were about to record. See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Katherine’s website. Hear more from Katherine on episode 99 , and more of her life story on episode 29 . Have your say in the Australian government’s Measuring what matters, second consultation process , ending 26 May 2023. Join us at a mini-festival with community forum hosted by Anthony James this Sunday 7 May. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscribe
Bonus · Mon, April 17, 2023
159 Excerpt. Latest on Rights of Nature & Pope's Paradigm Change
Last week's episode with Dr Alessandro Pelizzon contained a series of global paradigm shifting updates in its last 15 minutes or so. So this week's release is an excerpt of that part of the episode, in case you missed it. We pick up our conversation at the back half of Alessandro's announcement that he is co-founding a new place of education – akin to the Schumacher College in the UK - offering more of the education we need in these times. And we go on to the rapid developments around the world in the Rights of Nature, along with the recent rescinding by the Pope of the Doctrine of Discovery (if you don't know how significant that is, Alessandro explains). Title slide: a view of the northern rivers region of NSW, where this conversation took place (pic: Anthony James). Find more: Tune into the full episode 159 , where you'll also find a few links. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S7 Enull · Sun, April 09, 2023
159. Alessandro Pelizzon, on the collapse & renewal of universities, the education we need, & the latest on Rights of Nature
I met up with Dr Alessandro Pelizzon at his place in Byron Bay, for a long-awaited chat on some of the extraordinary work he’s been doing, outside his day job, on the immense value, almost unbelievable collapse, and opportunity for renewal of the public university as one of our oldest and grandest Western institutions. And there’s been a host of global paradigm shifting developments since we last spoke 18 months or so ago, in the domain of his day job (including just days ago with the Pope’s rescinding of the Doctrine of Discovery). Along with his co-founding of a new place of education – offering more of the education we need in these times. Dr Alessandro Pelizzon is an Associate Professor in Law at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. He is a co-founder and Executive Committee Member of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature, the current Director of its International Academic Hub, and an expert member of the UN Harmony with Nature programme. Alessandro has been exploring the emerging discourse on rights of nature, Wild Law and Earth Jurisprudence since its inception. And his book on all this will be published soon, titled Ecological Jurisprudence: Law, Representation and Environmental Metaphysics . This conversation was recorded at Alessandro’s home just outside of Byron Bay NSW, on 2 April 2023. Title slide: Alessandro at home after our conversation. See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: The sounds of the Byron Bay hinterland. Find more: Alessandro Pelizzon on LinkedIn. Academics for Public Universities. Public Universities Australia. Resonant Earth . Hear more of Alessandro on the rapid rise of ‘earth laws’ in episode 97 , from the Kimberley (and on a panel featuring Michael Leunig, Kate Auty and Nicola Rivers for episode 71 ). Upcoming launch of Su Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly,
S7 Enull · Mon, April 03, 2023
158. Loop Growers: Alice Star & Phil Garozzo on changing paradigms where we gather
I headed out of Brisbane this week to Camp Mountain, to learn about some of the regenerative work being done around there. One of the outstanding places I visited nearby was where Loop Growers happens. Alice Star and Phil Garozzo, hairdresser and marketing graduate respectively, are its founders. They call it a ‘bio-intensive market garden’, which produces a wide range of chemical free fruit and veg that feeds their growing community of households and local businesses. The loop they refer to comprises 15 cafes, restaurants, bars and brewers who provide their excess organic materials (read, not waste) to feed the worms at the farm, which the farm in turn, cycles back as fresh produce. A functional loop at one level, and at another, a paradigm change in the heart of the places we gather. With tiny houses, event space and seed bank also emerging onsite, that initial loop is just the start of it. Though it could also have been the end, as the biblical-scale floods of last year almost wiped them out entirely. How this community is rebounding together says so much about what’s possible everywhere. This conversation was recorded at Loop Growers in the Samford Valley around 30 kilometres outside of Brisbane, on 31 March 2023. Title slide: Phil & Alice by the creek where we had our conversation. See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: No Such Thing As Waste, by Formidable Vegetable. Find more: Loop Growers . Broadsheet piece with a series of photos at Loop Growers from before and after the flood. Bush Tekniq . Upcoming launch of Sustainable Table report on Regenerating Investment in Food & Farming. GoFundMe page set up by the family of Carol Sanford (our guest in ep 150). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=
S7 Enull · Mon, March 27, 2023
157. Regenerating Country, live with Jacob Birch & Zena Cumpston
Yesterday I hosted a yarn with two brilliant First Nations guests at the World Science Festival in Brisbane, to discuss 'the rise of regenerative agriculture, the intersection with First Nations Knowledges, and the synergies for a harmonious and sustainable future on earth'. Barkandji woman Zena Cumpston (aka Zena Sky Ranger) is a writer, researcher and story-teller who has also curated some exceptional exhibitions including Emu Sky. She is passionate about plants, particularly the many ways they elucidate the ingenuity and scientific knowledge of her people. Indeed, Zena has co-authored a new book called Plants: Past, Present & Future – the latest in the First Knowledges series – that featured in Booktopia’s ‘best non-fiction’ list for 2022. Her writing also appears in the extraordinary anthology Unlimited Futures, and in the Federal Government's pivotal 2021 State of the Environment Report. Jacob Birch is a self-described native grains die-hard. He’s an academic, entrepreneur and Churchill Fellow who is working towards reawakening and restoring the grassland foodways that sustained his Gamilaraay ancestors for thousands of generations. Walking within and between many convergent spaces, including lecturing in regenerative agriculture, Jacob is helping to reignite the native grain economy, led by First Nations people, for the benefit of all people. He has just led a national consultation and authored the Australian Native Grains Strategic Plan. And works with the Yunus Centre to develop innovative business frameworks for the native grain industry. This conversation was recorded live at the World Science Festival Brisbane, in the Cremorne Theatre at QPAC, on 26 March 2023. Title slide: Zena, Anthony & Jacob against the backdrop of one of the native grain farms Jacob talks about, that was the cover image for the event. See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Meanjin Sunrise, by local Aboriginal artists, played as we got ready to take to the stage. Find more: Regenerating Country , a live podcast conversation at the World Science Festival Brisbane. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a h
S7 Enull · Mon, March 20, 2023
156. Daniel Christian Wahl on living technologies & cultures
Daniel Christian Wahl is the world-renowned author of Designing Regenerative Cultures, still being translated into various languages years after release. Daniel’s also called himself a consultant, educator, activist, speaker, blogger, weaver, catalyst - he’s also become a farmer of sorts, which you’ll hear more about today, along with some other very interesting and entirely relevant parts of his life – like marine biology, martial arts, permaculture, his ongoing learning with elders, and how he looks to live it all, in what has become his home in Mallorca, Spain. Daniel's blog on Medium is followed by over 25,000 people, and his online advocacy has a combined audience of over 850,000 people around the world. He was an RSA Bicentenary Medal recipient for Regenerative Design in 2021, a Volans Fellow in 2022, and was previously the Director of Findhorn College. Daniel actually first reached out to me a few years ago, with kind words after my conversation with the late Hazel Henderson, someone we both admired a lot. And for him, as for many, the years since have included some tumult and burn out. All of which made this a doubly cherished conversation, as Daniel talks publicly in a way he never has before, in a moment of great reflection about the state of things and how to approach it. This conversation was recorded online with Daniel at home in Mallorca, on 15 March 2023. Title slide: Daniel Christian Wahl in the Tramuntana mountains near Lluc ( source ). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Daniel’s highly acclaimed book, translated into multiple languages, Designing Regenerative Cultures . Daniel with Satish Kumar on his YouTube channel recently. Daniel’s ongoing writing on Medium. Join me with special guests at Regenerating Country , this weekend, a live podcast conversation at the World Science Festival Brisbane on 26 March 2023. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by headin
S7 Enull · Mon, March 13, 2023
155. A Shifting Level of Engagement: Zac Webb, Amy Steel & Damon Gameau live in Margaret River
Mid-last year I accompanied film-maker Damon Gameau as he toured his film Regenerating Australia around WA. We were with Di Haggerty and Heidi Mippy which became ep122 from the Leederville screening, and in ep131 I hosted student Kate Fenech in Busselton. Well, there were two other event conversations on that tour that Damon hosted with other local guests, and they were exceptional. And as I listened back to the one from Margaret River this week, I thought this has just got to go out. So conversing with Damon, you’ll hear the former international sports star, Amy Steel, whose career was ended by a near-fatal heat stroke. And since then, she has dedicated her life to working with business and First Nations communities on cultural and climate matters. She’s currently the WA Leader | Decarbonisation and Climate risk at Engie, and in the process of moving to the new Witchcliffe Ecovillage near Margaret River. Alongside Amy is Wadandi Bibulmun man, Zac Webb. Born in Undalup (Busselton), Zac grew up on Wadandi Boodja (Country) listening to his Great Grandmother, Grandparents and his Father Dr Wayne ‘Wonitji’ Webb. Zac is highly respected in his work with Elders and Custodians, giving the wider community a better understanding of Cultural Protocols, and their Connection and Responsibilities to the Boodja that we all share together. 3.30 Damon sets the scene 8.45 Panel starts 21.55 Audience question on fire 29.08 On shared local knowledge working with bureaucracies 31.58 On understanding biodiversity - in numbers or knowledge of place 36.48 Young person on the sustainability of drones for planting trees 37.42 On the mining rush for minerals for renewables 38.42 Young person on how to make the film’s vision a reality 41.55 Damon on what we can do including some funding opportunities Head here for automatic cues to those chapter markers. This conversation was recorded at the HEART Centre in Margaret River, on 17 May 2022. Title slide: Redgate Beach, near the Witchcliffe Ecovillage and the town of Margaret River (pic: Anthony James, just before the event). See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Mon, March 06, 2023
154. We’re the Species Who Could Do It: Rosemary Morrow on becoming the restoration species
For over 40 years, Rosemary Morrow has travelled the world, blazing a pioneering trail teaching permaculture as a tool for restoration. From Vietnam and Cambodia, to Greece, West Africa, and Australia, her at times death-defying journey has helped countless communities in all sorts of situations restore healthy living systems. And it was arguably all set in tow when, at the age of 15, she ventured solo to the Kimberley here in WA. This is a conversation Rowe’s not accustomed to having, but she was customarily fearless in having it. And for me, it continues a kind of accidental series with women elders. One I’m finding to be a great gift. In this case, Rowe was kind enough to spend some time with me on a visit back to where she grew up, here in Perth. She was touring her new book, a revised and updated edition of her classic Earth User’s Guide to Permaculture – now called the Earth Restorer’s Guide to Permaculture. It’s been endorsed by the UN as part of this Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, has a foreword by Vandana Shiva, and throws down the gauntlet for what’s still to be done. This conversation was recorded at Ecoburbia, just south of Walyalup / Fremantle, on 24 November 2022. Title slide: Rosemary Morrow (pic: Permatil Global). See more photos including behind the scenes by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia . Earth People Fair, by Formidable Vegetable . Find more: Rosemary’s book, Earth Restorer’s Guide to Permaculture . Enter the draw for a gift pack of books from Melliodora Publishing , including Rosemary’s new one. Join me at Regenerating Country , a live podcast conversation at the World Science Festival Brisbane on 26 March 2023. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=C2LKHEX4MP4WQ¤cy_code=AUD&source=ur
S7 Enull · Mon, February 27, 2023
153. Changing the Story, with student Neeve Blackham-Jennings, Mandy Bamford & Nicki Mitchell
Neeve Blackham-Jennings is a school student who wrote and illustrated what ‘accidentally’ became an award-winning book when she was fifteen. It’s a story that hoped to change a story – the story of Australia’s most endangered reptile, the Western Swamp Tortoise. But that’s not the half of it. Last September’s Quantum Words Festival in Perth opened with Schools Day. I was fortunate to host Bruce Pascoe later in the day, which you may have heard on episode 140. But opening the festival was this session, featuring Neeve alongside a couple of brilliant women whose chance encounters with Neeve continue to reverberate, as they work to bring this species back from the brink of extinction. Mandy Bamford is an ecologist and environmental communicator, fascinated by innovative ways to engage people with nature. And Nicki Mitchell is an award-winning tertiary educator and Associate Professor of Conservation Biology at UWA. Their work includes the rehabilitation of wetland habitats, and the translocation of zoo-bred animals to nature reserves – joining forces with passionate community members, including young people like Neeve, to enable more positive stories of change. We talk about all this, and related topics of voting age, media and more, with some terrific student questions. 24.00 - Q&A starts with Lyn Beazley AO, on the effect of global warming ‘feminising’ the genders of many species 24.45 - Student question on the ethics of species translocation 26.00 - Question on some of the pioneers in this space 27.45 - Anthony asks Neeve her thoughts on the voting age 28.55 - Student question on how literature can affect social issues besides conservation 31.30 - Student question on other endangered species like the numbats 32.30 - Anthony asks if anyone’s studying journalism - and what we need and might do in media 35.50 - Student question on what’s driven the Western Swamp Tortoise decline Head here for automatic cues to those chapter markers. This conversation was recorded in the theatre at John Curtin College of the Arts in Walyalup/Fremantle, on 16 September 2022. Title slide: Nicki Mitchell, Mandy Bamford & high school student Neeve Blackham-Jennings (pic: Olivia Cheng). See more photos of this & other events including some behind the scenes stuff by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consid
S7 Enull · Mon, February 20, 2023
152. Pathways to Regeneration Live, with Zach Bush, Ella Noah Bancroft & Tanya Massy
Zach Bush toured in Australia in December last year. This event, in Byron Bay, sold out in a matter of hours. So a humming full house of 250+ people filled the local theatre for Zach’s rousing keynote, and this subsequent panel conversation. The two women joining Zach and myself for this were Bundjalung woman and founder of The Returning, Ella Noah Bancroft, and regenerative farmer and award-winning writer, Tanya Massy. You’ll hear me introduce Ella and Tanya in a bit more detail on the night. And for those less familiar with Zach, he’s the highly decorated physician who’s become globally renowned for his work on the microbiome as the basis of all human and planetary health. He’s since become a co-founder of Farmer’s Footprint, a not-for-profit in the US supporting farmers who are regenerating their landscapes to produce healthy, nutrient-dense food for a healthy planet. And last year, Zach supported Blair Beattie and the growing team here, to launch Farmers Footprint Australia. This tour was its first big national splash. And there was no shortage of big breakthroughs to dive into as our conversation evolved, in what became a highlight of highlights on tour. This conversation was recorded in the Byron Bay Community Centre theatre, on 6 December 2022. Title slide: Zach Bush delivering his keynote before this panel conversation (pic: Elle Jeffrey). See more photos of this event & behind the scenes of the tour by becoming a subscriber via the Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia. Find more: Farmer’s Footprint Australia . Film of this event including Zach’s keynote – podcast subscribers can get 25% off the purchase of this film via the Patreon page . To hear more of Zach, including his fascinating back story, listen to episode 62. Join me at Regenerating Country , a live podcast conversation at the World Science Festival Brisbane on 26 March 2023. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='ht
S7 Enull · Mon, February 13, 2023
151. Regenerating Australia live in Beverley, with Damon Gameau, Di & Ian Haggerty, Oral McGuire & Grant Revell
Over the last couple of years Damon Gameau, the brilliant Aussie film-maker behind Regenerating Australia, 2040, That Sugar Film and Animal Beatbox, has joined me at this time to take a look at the year ahead. Last year happened to land on Valentine’s Day. So while Damon’s giving himself and his family some well-earned dedicated time right now, it gives me the chance to share this unique event with you. This was a Town Hall dialogue that followed a community screening of Regenerating Australia, in Beverley, in the wheat belt of WA. Local woman Claire Broun & husband Martin brought together a rare and powerful line up, featuring prominent local Noongar man Oral McGuire, nearby regenerative farmers Di & Ian Haggerty, locally engaged landscape architect and rural planner Grant Revell, and Damon online from the other side of the country. Yours truly was host. We start with a profound Welcome to Country by Oral, before I introduce our guests, and later our audience. With love. 3.20 Oral 7.20 Panel conversation 24.50 Audience gets involved This conversation was recorded in the Beverley Town Hall, with Damon appearing online from home in New South Wales, on 17 June 2022. Title slide: Damon Gameau (on screen), Anthony James, Grant Revell, Ian & Di Haggerty, Oral McGuire - & Claire Broun managing the stage (pic: Martin Pell). See more photos of this event & behind the scenes by becoming a supporting listener on our Patreon page. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for Regenerating Australia. Find more: Regenerating Australia – community film screenings are available. To hear more of Di & Ian Haggerty, with another unique line up out at their place, tune into episode 142. Join me at Regenerating Country , a live podcast conversation at the World Science Festival Brisbane. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benef
S7 Enull · Mon, February 06, 2023
150. A Regenerative Life: Carol Sanford on living, dying & changing paradigms
Starting the year with Carol Sanford feels incredibly special. She’s been at the heart of what we might call the ‘regenerative paradigm’ for decades. Friends and colleagues have spoken about her with me for years, right up until the end of last year. And last month, a previous guest and author of Sand Talk, Tyson Yunkaporta, featured Carol on his podcast. That’s when I learned the sad news that she has only a few months to live. When I wrote to her expressing my care and respect, and to see if she’d possibly be up for a chat with another Aussie podcaster, she said sure, but ‘I am declining and so can’t wait long.’ Days later, we shared this conversation. Carol is Executive Producer at The Regenerative Business Summit, 5x TEDx presenter, and a highly awarded best-selling author of six books – currently writing her seventh. Carol launched two startups, ran and sold them, then turned to educating businesses globally, from big companies like Google and DuPont, to ‘new economy businesses’, as she puts it, ‘developing leaders toward the business of the 21st Century, with individuals who want a Regenerative Paradigm education’. Rebecca Henderson from Harvard Business School said Carol "created an approach that reimagines business. Her approach will be The Future of Business." But all that’s just the touching the surface. This is a deeply cherished conversation about Carol’s regenerative life. This conversation was recorded online with Carol at home in Seattle and Anthony in Perth on 2 February 2023 (Australian time). Title slide: Carol Sanford. Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia. Find more: Carol’s website. Carol Sanford Institute. A fundraiser organised by Carol’s family to help her with much needed care and assistance. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by
S7 Enull · Mon, February 06, 2023
150. A Regenerative Life: Carol Sanford on living, dying & changing paradigms
Starting the year with Carol Sanford feels incredibly special. She’s been at the heart of what we might call the ‘regenerative paradigm’ for decades. Friends and colleagues have spoken about her with me for years, right up until the end of last year. And last month, a previous guest and author of Sand Talk, Tyson Yunkaporta, featured Carol on his podcast. That’s when I learned the sad news that she may only have a few months to live. When I wrote to her expressing my care and respect, and to see if she’d possibly be up for a chat with another Aussie podcaster, she said sure, but ‘I am declining and so can’t wait long.’ Days later, we shared this conversation. Carol is Executive Producer at The Regenerative Business Summit, 5x TEDx presenter, and a highly awarded best-selling author of six books – currently writing her seventh. Carol launched two startups, ran and sold them, then turned to educating businesses globally, from big companies like Google and DuPont, to ‘new economy businesses’, as she puts it, ‘developing leaders toward the business of the 21st Century, with individuals who want a Regenerative Paradigm education’. Rebecca Henderson from Harvard Business School said Carol "created an approach that reimagines business. Her approach will be The Future of Business." But all that’s just the touching the surface. This is a deeply cherished conversation about Carol’s regenerative life. This conversation was recorded online with Carol at home in Seattle and Anthony in Perth on 2 February 2023 (Australian time). Music: Regeneration, by Amelia Barden, off the soundtrack for the film Regenerating Australia. Find more: Carol’s website. Carol Sanford Institute. The RegenNarration is an independent, ad-free, freely available podcast, thanks to the generous support of listeners. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them, by heading to the Support page on The RegenNarration website. You can become a subscriber to the podcast, connect with other listeners & receive other benefits, directly via the Patreon page . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating & reviewing the podcast. Thanks for your support!
S7 Enull · Mon, January 30, 2023
149. Summer Flashbacks (episodes that people still talk about): Frances Pollock on Regenerating Land & Food Systems
Our last summer flashback ‘episode that people still talk to me about’ is episode 9, with Frances Pollock (nee Jones). Frances and David Pollock became nationally famous about a decade ago now, for ‘destocking’ the 375,000-acre Wooleen Station in the Murchison region of Western Australia. That was step one in what has become an extraordinary story of regeneration, increasingly reverberating far beyond Wooleen. David’s since been on the podcast a few times, and Frances continues to be recognised and awarded for her work in the region. I also look back on this episode as a huge turning point for me and my family. This was the first episode out on Country, connecting directly with food and agricultural systems. I was set on a path of understanding regeneration, Country, agriculture, food and all other systems at greater depth, in the lived realities of people’s lives, in their places. And while David Pollock was still a bit shy at this stage, at least with this bloke he’d never heard of, thankfully Frances wasn’t! And the names she sent us on our way with set up a transformative journey around Australia in 2018 that gave birth to The RegenNarration and everything it’s become to date. This is an excerpt featuring the last 25 minutes or so of our conversation at the Wooleen Homestead. It picks up with their initial harrowing experiments with letting dingoes roam wild on the property. And on to another harrowing experiment with the bank as they were on the cusp of foreclosure, before the Australian public rallied behind them. We close with the Native Title judgement delivered at Wooleen, and all that might mean. This conversation was recorded in late 2017. Title slide: Frances Pollock (pic: Olivia Cheng) – the full photo (with Anthony in it) is on the episode website. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Read a transcript of our full conversation on the episode web page. Hear the rest of our conversation back in episode 9. Hear more of Frances with David and Charlie Massy on episode 16. And hear more from David (eventually) on episode Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S7 Enull · Mon, January 23, 2023
148. Summer Flashbacks (episodes that people still talk about): Doughnut Economics, with Kate Raworth
Our next episode from the archives that people still talk to me about is episode 3, with Kate Raworth. She’s the best-selling author of Doughnut Economics: Seven ways to think like a 21st century economist. And the instigator of the Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL), helping put it into practice in communities everywhere. This is an excerpt of the first 20 minutes or so our conversation just a couple of months after the book came out. And this release comes just a week after the launch in Oxford of Doughnut Economics Live, a free course for all economics students in the city who want to think like 21st century economists. Kate said last week: “It's time for every university's economics curriculum to address the world's extraordinary and extreme realities.” And “We have had to change venues three times to accommodate all the students applying to join the course - now it's in the biggest lecture theatre available in the university and it's oversubscribed. Students demand and deserve change.” You can hear more on the global student revolt that was kicking into gear in the last decade, and has continued to pick up since, in the rest of our conversation (link below). Here, we kick off on with the shift in thinking involved, and how to communicate and practice it. Then it’s onto Kate’s journey, and how she came to this concept that took off around the world. Interestingly, Kate brings up the work of George Lakoff, on the metaphors we live by – which used to be the primary text for the postgraduate students in sustainability that Frank Fisher and I worked with. We close here with how we might go beyond growth and GDP as proxies for society’s progress, towards tracking what’s actually important to us. This conversation was recorded in June 2017. Title slide: Kate Raworth (pic: Roman Krznaric). Music: 43, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: Read a transcript of the full conversation on the episode website. Hear the rest of our conversation back in episode 3. We go on to talk more about the practicalities of change, the student revolt that has only continued to grow since this conversation, and how we can go about the shift in thinking and acting in our own lives. Kate’s website & book Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S7 Enull · Mon, January 16, 2023
147. Summer Flashbacks (episodes that people still talk about): Regenerative Economics, with John Fullerton
A warm welcome to the new year. We’ll resume normal transmission of the podcast in February. But to gear us up, I thought to release a summer flashback or two, delving way back in the archives to episodes that people still speak to me about today. First up is an excerpt from the very first episode I recorded, with John Fullerton. He’s the former Wall Street executive who left that life, and through a fascinating personal journey ended up founding the non-profit Capital Institute, dedicated to bringing about new, regenerative economic and financial systems. We had this conversation back in 2017, but it’s lost none of its currency, and gives wonderful context to the growing influence and activity of the Capital Institute today, and the movement as a whole. Note: Enrolments are now open for the third running of the flagship course of the Capital Institute: Introduction to Regenerative Economics (featuring a number of guests on this podcast). More on John Fullerton: John’s work draws deeply on systems thinking, a broad range of other contemporary and ancient schools of thought, and a range of ‘real world’ case studies, impact investing and other experiments on the ground. All this features in his extensive speaking and writing, including in his booklet, Regenerative Capitalism: How Universal Principles and Patterns Will Shape Our New Economy . This conversation was recorded in May 2017. Title slide image: John Fullerton. Music: 43, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: Read a transcript of the full conversation on the episode website. Hear the rest of our conversation, including more on the role of big business and other business structures, in the last 10 minutes or so of episode 1. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app stor
S6 E146 · Mon, December 19, 2022
146. The RegenNarration Soundtrack 2022: Highlights from our guests this year
This is our customary sign-off episode for the year – a package of highlights from our brilliant array of guests throughout 2022, accompanied by some of the music and sounds of Country you heard along the way. Here's the ‘track list’: 1. Jess Beckerling (ep 105) 2. To A Forests Dream, by Cloudjumper (from the Free Music Archive) – intro 3. To The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra, then ... 4. Flamenco Rhythm, by Sunsearcher (from the Free Music Archive) – Petrine McCrohan (ep 106) 5. Di Haggerty (ep 107), including ... 6. To Rockin’ in the 80s, by Dr Sparkles (from the Free Music Archive) 7. To Regeneration, by Amelia Barden - Damon Gameau (ep 108), Clinton Walker (ep 109) 8. Kate Chaney (ep 110) 9. To Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp - Kate Chaney (ep 110), David Pollock (ep 111) 10. Natalie Davey (ep 112), including ... 11. To You Shine, by the Tura Music kids 12. María Inés Cuj & Rony Lec (ep 113) 13. To Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae – Cathy McGowan (ep 114), Tanya Massy (ep 115) 14. Louise O’Neill (ep 116) 15. Eugene Eades including his song – Looking Back to Yesterday Again, performed with Bruce Anthony (ep 117) 16. Agostino Petroni (ep 118) 17. To Temporary, by Yen Nguyen – Kim Paul Nguyen (ep 119) 18. Tony Rinaudo (ep 120) 19. Kate Chaney MP (ep 121) 20. Ode to Kate, by your podcast host (ep 121 Extra) 21. Damon Gameau, at a screening of Regenerating Australia (ep 122) 22. Fred Provenza (ep 123) 23. To Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp – Jane Slattery (ep 124), Paul Cleary (ep 125) 24. Serenity Hill with Kirsten Larsen (ep 126) 25. To a tune by Jeremiah Johnson – Ian Congdon & Courtney Young (ep 127), Jade Miles (ep 128) 26. To Cycles, by Simon Edwards – the late Hazel Henderson (ep 129), Valerie Brown (ep 130) 27. Kate Fenech at a screening of Regenerating Australia (ep 131) 28. Kristy Stewart (ep 132) 29. Jodie Jackson (ep 133) 30. Amanda Cahill (ep 134) 31. Ross O’Reilly (ep 135) 32. Terry & Pam McCosker (ep 136) 33. Robert Pekin (ep 137) 34. Matthew Evans (ep 138) 35. Douglas Rushkoff (ep 139) 36. Bruce Pascoe (ep 140) 37. Oral McGuire, Greg Mullins & Lesley Head (ep 141) 38. Ian & Di Haggerty (ep 142) 39. Heidi Mippy (ep 143) 40. To The Deep Ocean is Calling, composed by Eva Holm Foosnæs with lyrics by T Aarskog & Karen O'Brien – Karen O’Brien (ep 144) 43. To Wildflower Meadow, by The Eternal Page (featuring Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, November 28, 2022
145 Extra. Paul Hawken on an upcoming global launch & the US mid-terms
This is a short tribute episode marking the 10th anniversary of the passing of my old mate and mentor, Professor Frank Fisher. He’d be 79 today. The honours list of guests on these anniversary editions now includes Hazel Henderson, Allan Savory and Charlie Massy. This year, it’s Paul Hawken, the multiple best-selling author of Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation. This is the rest of the conversation Paul and I shared last week – featuring some fun personal exchanges, and even some out-takes, to close out the year. We start with Paul’s take on the US mid-terms. Then we get the early running on what’s coming down the line with Project Regeneration. And there is plenty, including a global launch of a short film with an all-star cast, now on December 7 / 8 (details below). After that, we got talking about some of Paul’s favourite episodes on The RegenNarration. I have a brief update on the podcast on the other side of this conversation too. Including ... I’m shifting host platform for the podcast . It’s been a long time coming really. SoundCloud has been my host platform till now, and it really isn’t set up for podcasts anymore. The change shouldn’t affect your listening in any way. It’ll still be available where you listen to podcasts, and on The RegenNarration website. But if you do experience any glitches, this might be why, and will hopefully be short lived. If you’re following the podcast on SoundCloud, it’ll still be available there too I believe, just not hosted there. Again, just let me know if you notice anything go wrong. And otherwise, I hope you find a better experience in the change too – with clearer show notes, website player and other benefits. Title slide image: from the Project Regeneration website portal Nexus. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: Tune into the main episode , ‘Paul Hawken on Regeneration – A Year On (there are a few links in the show notes there too). And join the global live stream launch of the 'What is Regeneration?' short film - now on Dec 8, 2022 at 1:00 to 2:00 AM, GMT. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='
S6 E145 · Mon, November 21, 2022
145. Paul Hawken on Regeneration - A Year On
Paul Hawken won’t need an introduction for many of you. But for those unfamiliar, Paul is a multiple best-selling author, entrepreneur, and advisor to heads of state and CEOs on climatic, economic and ecological regeneration. Paul and I last spoke for the podcast a bit over a year ago, on release of his latest best-selling book, Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation. That’s now the most listened to episode on this podcast. It also marked the launch of Project Regeneration, what’s billed as the world’s largest, most complete listing and network of solutions to the climate crisis. This week, we got together again, to talk about some of the big shifts underway, and some acute edges at play right now – both on a very personal level, and globally. We start in a very personal mode, on matters of living in the world today (including Paul’s next book!). Then we move through the extractive paradigm’s inevitable slide towards ever greater geo-engineering, on to more extraordinary stories of regeneration. This includes a focus on gender, place, healing from trauma, and other keystone aspects of regeneration. Along with examining contentious areas like offsets, carbon, methane, so-called green ammonia and the like, and how we might turn those into more holistic win-win-win approaches. This conversation was recorded online with Paul at home in California on 15 November 2022, Australian time. Title slide image: Paul Hawken (supplied). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Stay tuned for a special extra to this episode, out next week. Read a transcript of our conversation and see a few photos on the episode web page. Project Regeneration . More on Paul Hawken, including his full catalogue of books , on his personal website. Tune into last year’s conversation with Paul on episode 96 , ‘Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation.' Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&
S6 E144 · Mon, November 14, 2022
144. Karen O’Brien on Quantum Social Change & Mattering More Than We Think
Professor Karen O’Brien is a globally renowned thought leader on climate change impacts and social transformation. She has been heavily involved in the work of the IPCC, and shared in its 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. She’s also been on the scientific advisory board for Project Drawdown, and is the co-founder of cCHANGE, an Oslo-based company that has become a beacon in the space of social transformation. And a few months ago, cCHANGE launched Karen’s new book, called You Matter More Than You Think: Quantum social change for a thriving world. The by-line reads: have we been underestimating our collective capacity for social change? Spoiler alert – big time! Friend and best-selling author of Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation, Paul Hawken, says: “You Matter More Than You Think is more than just a book. It is an awakening, a how-to manual showing a new path to social and ecological regeneration.” It feels like we hear the themes of this conversation in so many other conversations on this podcast, right up to the last couple of weeks. This also feels like chapter 2 to the previous conversation Karen and I shared a few years ago. That’s where you’ll hear more about her fascinating background, and what led to her current passions - along with early ruminations on what’s become the new book. Here, we pick up the thread. This conversation was recorded online with Karen at home is Oslo, Norway, on 7 November 2022. Title slide image: Karen O’Brien (pic: from the book). Music: Wildflower Meadow, by The Eternal Page (featuring Karen’s son Jens Stokke) The Deep Ocean is Calling , composed by Eva Holm Foosnæs with lyrics by T Aarskog and Karen O'Brien Find more: Read a transcript of our conversation on the episode web page. On Karen and her book ‘ You Matter More Than You Think : Quantum social change for a thriving world'. A 6-minute film of the book launch . Transformative leadership course . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining
S6 E143 · Sun, November 06, 2022
143. Visited by the Rainbow Serpent, with Heidi Mippy, the Haggerty's, Jane Slattery & Nakala Maddock
This week’s episode is something extraordinary. Last week featured a conversation with Di and Ian Haggerty, in a shearing shed filled by 170 people from right around the country. You might remember it ended with Di’s passing reference to some amazing insight that Noongar woman Heidi Mippy had shared. Heidi is an author, senior staffer with the Noongar Land Enterprise Group, and so much more. She had been personally invited to this event by Di, in anticipation of further growing the relationships they’d been treasuring with First Nations people. But no one could have anticipated what ended up unfolding while this event was taking place. Ian and I were told of what Di already knew at that point, after the conversation between Di, Ian and I ended. Later in the day, after a farm tour, there was to be a panel conversation. It was to bring Di and Ian together with co-founder of natural intelligence farming, Jane Slattery, and long-time collaborator and organiser of this event, the CEO of Nutrisoil Nakala Maddock. Given the amazing story unfolding in the background, and that we’d ended the morning session talking about the richness on offer for landholders in inviting First Nations people in, I suggested acting on that here and now. Heidi was subsequently invited to join that afternoon dialogue, and thankfully accepted the invitation. This is part of what ensued. This conversation was recorded live at the Haggerty farm in the WA wheatbelt on 24 October 2022. Title slide image: an aerial image of Wagyl (SmartSoil Media). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: Read a transcript of our conversation and see a few photos on the episode web page. Tune in to last week’s episode 142 : ‘Dianne & Ian Haggerty on Tapping into Natural Intelligence, with live audience on the farm’ (you’ll find more links, some photos and transcript on the episode web page too). Heidi Mippy on LinkedIn . And Heidi speaking with Di, Damon Gameau and Anthony at the premiere screening of Regenerating Australia at Leederville for ep 122. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website .</li
S6 E142 · Mon, October 31, 2022
142. Di & Ian Haggerty on Tapping into Natural Intelligence, with live audience on the farm
Longer term listeners to this podcast will feel increasingly familiar with Ian and Di Haggerty, creators of what Charles Massy has called their world breakthrough regenerative farming operation. But you won’t quite have heard them like this. Just last Monday, a capacity audience of 170 people from every state in Australia (and even a few continents) flocked to the shearing shed on one of the Haggerty farms in the WA wheatbelt, for a special day out. Years in the making, this was to be an exploration of what they call Natural Intelligence farming – what it means, how it works, and how they got here - in a way they’d never done before. With the need and appetite growing for what they’re offering, there’s a feeling among a growing number of people that it’s time to share more of ourselves and put it all on the line. So in that spirit of generosity, Di offered a 45 minute presentation, before Ian joined us on stage. This conversation was recorded live at the Haggerty farm in the WA wheatbelt on 24 October 2022. Title slide image: gathering round Di and Ian on a tour of the farm (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Di Haggerty on LinkedIn . Read a transcript of our conversation and see a few photos on the episode web page. Tune in to episode 68 for a tour around the farm with Di and Ian , produced over the first weekend we spent there in 2020. And to episode 124 with co-founder of Natural Intelligence farming, Jane Slattery. Nutrisoil , the organisers of this event, and long-term collaborators with the Haggerty’s. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits <a href='https://www.p
S6 E141 · Mon, October 24, 2022
141. On Fire! With Greg Mullins AO, Oral McGuire & Professor Lesley Head
Well known ABC radio presenter Natasha Mitchell called this an “unbelievably powerful session ‘On Fire!’” Ballardong Noongar leader and regenerative landholder, Oral McGuire, was alongside Greg Mullins, the former NSW Fire Commissioner who became a major national figure in the Black Summer bushfires, and Professor Lesley Head, co-author of the latest book in the incredible First Knowledges series (the first book in that series, Songlines, was featured in episodes 92 and 93, and they’re still among the top 5 most played episodes on this podcast). The event billing read: It’s a fundamental tool, but also one of our greatest fears. Join former NSW Fire Commissioner Greg Mullins, Indigenous fire expert Oral McGuire, and cultural geographer Lesley Head, as they talk with Anthony James about our relationship with fire as the planet warms. This conversation was recorded live at the Quantum Words Festival in the WA State Library in Boorloo / Perth on 17 September 2022. Title slide image: Anthony, Greg, Lesley and Oral in conversation (pic: from the Twitter post by Natasha Mitchell). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Read a transcript of our conversation on the episode web page. Greg’s book ‘Firestorm’. Lesley’s book ‘Hope & Grief in the Anthropocene’ And Lesley’s latest co-authored book ‘Plants: Past, Present & Future’, part of the First Knowledges series. To hear more from Oral (and Heidi Mippy), tune into ep 122 , Regenerating Australia Live in Leederville. Quantum Words Festival, Perth . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your h
S6 E140 · Mon, October 17, 2022
140. Bruce Pascoe on loving Country on the brink of great change
Bruce Pascoe in an Aboriginal Australian man, award-winning writer, and farmer. Last month I was fortunate to host Bruce in conversation at the brilliant Quantum Words Festival here in Perth. This was Schools Day, so there were about 150 people, mostly students, in the theatre. The session’s touchstone was Bruce’s extraordinary book Young Dark Emu. In keeping with its themes, we travelled deep and wide here, and in pin-drop attentive silence. The event billing read: In Young Dark Emu - A Truer History, Bruce Pascoe uses the accounts of early European explorers, colonists and farmers, to argue for an understanding of Australia prior to the arrival of Europeans as a land of cultivated farming areas, productive fisheries, permanent homes, and thriving villages. Bruce discusses his work with Anthony James. This conversation was recorded live at the Quantum Words Festival in Walyalup / Fremantle on 16 September 2022. Title slide image: live audience for this event at John Curtin College of the Arts. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Read a transcript of our conversation on the episode web page. You can also watch our conversation here (starting at 2.06.30) Black Duck Foods . Young Dark Emu (and so much more at Magabala Books in Broome) . Quantum Words Perth. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennarration.buzzsprout.com/
Bonus · Mon, October 10, 2022
139 Extra. Douglas Rushkoff on grounding, mentors & fatherhood
Here’s a little over 20 additional minutes of ‘offcuts’ from my conversation with Douglas Rushkoff. It features a few of our more personal exchanges. The first seven or eight minutes delves further into the dangerous appeal Douglas is seeing in the thinking of some prominent people. Which leads to exploring some recent experiences of the over-culture in our respective countries, with community-based election successes. Then we share a few instructive thoughts about respective older mentors, in life and death. And we go out with Douglas offering one of the wisest articulations I’ve heard on being a father in these times. Title slide image: Douglas Rushkoff. 0.00 Introductions 2.00 The danger in the appeal of some prominent folk 6.15 The value or otherwise of aspiring for exponential change 9.40 Experiencing the over-culture in our respective countries, with community-based election success stories and the ‘consumption thing’ wearing thin 15.15 Some personal exchanges on our respective older mentors 17.00 The universal need for dignity and how it can lead to fascism, or better places 19.00 Being a father in these times – back to polyvagal theory Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: Tune into the main episode : ‘Douglas Rushkoff on surviving the tech billionaire mindset and embodying the over-culture’, with a few links in the show notes too, and a transcript, on the episode web page. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your suppor
S6 E139 · Mon, October 03, 2022
139. Douglas Rushkoff on surviving the tech billionaires & embodying the over-culture
Douglas Rushkoff is the Professor of Media Theory and Digital Economics who MIT named one of the “world’s ten most influential intellectuals.” He also hosts the podcast I listen to most, called Team Human. And he’s the best-selling author of 20 books, including the new one, Survival of the Richest: Escape Fantasies of the Tech Billionaires. The publisher’s blurb reads: ‘We always knew but now we *know*. The tech elite mean to leave us all behind. In Survival of the Richest, Rushkoff traces the origins of The Mindset in science and technology through its current expression in missions to Mars, island bunkers, and the Metaverse.’ A big early influence on me, Frances Moore Lappé, said: “Beyond eye-opening, this book is eye-popping. A master story-teller, Rushkoff brings to life perhaps the greatest challenge of our time, The Mindset that drives so much destructive behaviour, and blinds us to solutions beyond new technology and consumption. A must read.” This is a profound and fun journey, firstly into the Mindset, then back out again. Where the billionaire preppers and trans-humanists are ultimately dead ending, the current of life is flowing elsewhere. 0.00 Introduction 3.30 The Mindset! 19.30 Origins of The Mindset 33.00 Getting caught up in The Mindset while trying to ‘fix it’ (while exploring family stories and the wonders of epigenetics) 42.30' encounter with the Maori and our respective exchanges with Tyson Yunkaporta 53.30 ‘Human’ economies and platforms 61.00 If we’re the over-culture now … 66.00 A transformative tale in Douglas’ life before choosing to start a family 73.00 Music ... This conversation was recorded online with Douglas at home in New York City on 27 September 2022 (Australian time). Title slide image: Douglas Rushkoff. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Stay tuned for a special ‘offcuts’ extra to this episode, out next week. Read a transcript of our conversation on the episode web page . Douglas’ website , where you can also pick up the book Survival of the Richest (and others). The Team Human podcast . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value wha
S6 E138 · Mon, September 26, 2022
138. Living as One Organism: Matthew Evans on soil and reimagining the world from the ground up
Matthew Evans is a chef, farmer, host of the popular TV series Gourmet Farmer, and most recently the author of ‘Soil: The incredible story of what keeps the earth, and us, healthy.’ And what an incredible story. Prepare for perhaps the most mind-blowing hour on this podcast (and that feels like it’s saying something). Matthew’s framed it as a story of bombs, of civilisations falling, of gods and pestilence, and redemption. Author and journalist Gabrielle Chan wrote, ‘This book is an urgent and passionate plea to take soil seriously, not just for farmers, gardeners and cooks, but for anyone who eats.’ In fact, Matthew was partly motivated to write this book due to the polarisation around the topic of his last book, On Eating Meat. Perhaps the topic of soil could be more universalising. And of course, it needs to be. I do feel this personally, too, as Matthew’s research affirms our growing understanding of soil (and our treatment of it) as being at the heart of our mental, physical and even spiritual health – in profound ways. Due to Covid, and living over the other side of the country in Tasmania, Matthew had become something of a digital friend. So we resolved to wait to talk about this book till we could do it in person. And you’ll hear that we weren’t the only creatures celebrating that during our conversation. As often happens, the timing ended up perfect, allowing us to weave in some of the key happenings in the world right now. This conversation was recorded by Derbal Yerrigan / Swan River in Boorloo / Perth on 17 August 2022. Title slide image: Matthew Evans just before this conversation, dodging storms and sitting on tarps (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Read a transcript of our conversation and see a few photos on the episode web page. On the book ‘Soil: The incredible story of what keeps the earth, and us, healthy’. Fat Pig Farm . Hear my previous conversation with Matthew for episode 60 ‘On Eating Meat’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www.regennarration.com
S6 E137 · Mon, September 19, 2022
137. A Transforming Military Industrial Complex, with Rob Pekin & Uncle Kel O’Neill at Food Connect
Robert Pekin is the CEO & co-founder of Food Connect, the self-described ‘systems enterprise’ in Brisbane. You might remember Rob from episode 28 with his brilliant partner Emma-Kate Rose, when we talked at length about their back-story and their soon to be successful $2m equity crowd fund. And from episode 88 last year, with Kungalu and Birri-Gubba Woman Gaala Watson, on an imminent native grains - and milling - breakthrough, and a transformation in governance led by First Nations. When I was in Brisbane for Convergence recently, I dropped in for an update. Rob walked me around this old industrial property as it further transforms into Australia’s first multi-function Food Hub, now hosting over 40 enterprises - each outstanding stories in their own right. This was a quick visit. I’d just recorded with mutual friend Amanda Cahill for what became episode 134, and cycled up to the Shed for a look and some lunch together. I wasn’t going to record this, but as I was being blown away all over again by Rob, alongside Chair of the Food Connect Foundation, Wiradjuri man from Dubbo NSW, Uncle Kel O’Neil, I had to pull out the recorder and share some of it with you. So join us at the Shed, for the conclusion to our Queensland series, and more beginnings for Food Connect. This conversation was recorded on 14 July 2022. Title slide image: Rob Pekin (bottom) and Uncle Kel O’Neill (top) against the backdrop of the Food Connect Shed (pics sourced from their websites). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Food Connect Shed . Food Connect Foundation . Hear my previous conversations with Rob, with Emma-Kate Rose in episode 28 , and Gaala Watson in episode 88 . Read a transcript of our conversation including time stamps on the episode web page . And you can now gain a Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S6 E136 · Mon, September 12, 2022
136. Convergence: Terry & Pam McCosker on the story behind the greatest regen ag movement in Australia
Dr Terry McCosker OAM is the legendary co-founder of RCS Australia. Charles Massy credits RCS as being behind the greatest regenerative agriculture movement in Australia. And throughout its pioneering decades, Pam McCosker has been the unheralded lynch pin. Terry makes no secret of it. Nor did Charles when he wrote in his best-selling Call of the Reed Warbler: “When I look back over the rise of regenerative agriculture in Australia, I see at the forefront Terry and Pam McCosker and their RCS organisation. Today it remains a world leader in the field.” But almost incredibly, this is the first time Pam has ever appeared in media. Well, on the cusp of their 50th wedding anniversary next year, and with the zeitgeist coming in a rush to meet their trailblazing work, now seemed like a good time to speak with them together. This conversation was recorded at their home in Yeppoon, Central Queensland, soon after sharing in the extraordinary Convergence event in Brisbane that marked the 30th anniversary of RCS. We debrief on that here, including on some of the major flashpoints emerging right now, and contemplate what might come next. All interspersed in this intimate, at times heart-breaking, and often downright entertaining journey into their life together – their personal convergence - a life forged through unfathomable loss, ultimate successes, and a still deepening call towards the heart of it all. This conversation was recorded on 3 August 2022. Title slide image: Terry and Pam at home just after this conversation (pic: Anthony James). You can see more photos on the episode web page. There'll be more from the Convergence event on Patreon for subscribers. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: RCS Australia . Watch a 3-minute highlight video of the recent Convergence event , produced by Farmers Footprint Australia (which also launched at that event). And you can now gain access to all presentations from Convergence at RCS Australia for $150. Hear Terry and Anthony in conversation back in 2020 for Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you
S6 E135 · Mon, September 05, 2022
135. High Valley Dawn: Ross O’Reilly on a rugby legend’s journey to vulnerability & regen vision
Ross O’Reilly is a former champion regional rugby league coach, real estate agent and restauranteur, all on the way to founding his ultimate vision in 2016 – High Valley Dawn. It carries the label ‘permaculture farm’, but somehow feels like so much more. Think incredible market garden and food forest, deeply restorative work place and learning centre, grazing animals and thriving community, with all sorts of layers on that. And it’s still just getting started. I first learned about Ross when Terry McCosker made particular mention of him when he was in WA late last year. Terry’s the legendary founder of RCS Australia who featured on episode 67, and will feature again next week, this time with wife Pam, to talk about the recent Convergence event in Brisbane, among other things. It was after that Convergence event that I drifted back to Yeppoon in central Queensland with the RCS crew, and made tracks for Ross’s place. The High Valley Dawn journey began for Ross when a passion for wellness and sustainable development collided with a desire to serve fresh, local, organically grown produce in his nearby restaurant Beaches in Rosslyn Bay. His intention to one day create a self-sustaining community that would fulfil these desires, and help inspire future generations to get back to working in harmony with Mother Nature was set. In 2016, the stars aligned. But really, this story goes way further back. This conversation was recorded at High Valley Dawn, just outside of Yeppoon, Queensland, on 2 August 2022. Title slide image: Ross O’Reilly at the farm, just before this conversation (pic: Anthony James). You can see more photos on the episode web page. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: High Valley Dawn . New Dawn Gathering on 24 September 2022. Transcript of our conversation on the episode web page. Quantum Words Festival in Perth 16-18 September 2022. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www.r
S6 E134 · Mon, August 29, 2022
134. The Next Economy: Dr Amanda Cahill on showing up for communities in transition
Dr Amanda Cahill is the CEO of The Next Economy. I feel like I’ve already introduced Amanda to you, given how often she’s come up in conversations here. And you might even recognise her from Damon Gameau’s film 2040, or more recently on the ABC’s Q&A program. Amanda’s work at The Next Economy supports communities, government, industry and others to develop a more resilient, just and regenerative economy. Most of this work results from being increasingly invited into regional communities around Australia. These are often major coal-producing communities at the centre of energy transition debates in this country. Tensions are often high, and polarisation rife, which has made us all subject to political exploitation at times. And we all lose from that. But Amanda’s work with these communities is creating a different trajectory. And now it’s not just communities inviting in The Next Economy - but governments, industry and media (even globally). I first met Amanda back in 2016, at the outset of the New Economy Network of Australia. We got to know each other a little at panel conversations and the like, as recognition of her work grew. But when we last caught up at her place in late 2018, it seemed like The Next Economy was going to end before it had even really begun. How things have changed. Soon after came the first transformative shift. And in the last year alone, the organisation has grown eight-fold. Transformative change is gaining momentum – across multiple inter-related systems. But Amanda’s still feeling concerned. The next three years are vital, she says. And all largely pending how well we can be really present with each other, deeply listen, and support communities in the transitions underway everywhere. This conversation was recorded at Amanda’s place in Brisbane, on 14 July 2022. Title slide image: Amanda Cahill at home, just before this conversation (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: The Next Economy . Transcript of our conversation on the episode web page. Quantum Words Festival in Pe Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S6 E133 · Mon, August 22, 2022
133. You Are What You Read: Jodie Jackson on a new global network, changing our media diet & the world
Jodie Jackson is an author, yoga practitioner and media campaigner. Her first book is titled ‘You Are What You Read: why changing your media diet can change the world’. “Information is to the mind, what food is to the body”, she says. And after becoming a mother, and seeing the news affect even her small children, she wrote the children’s book ‘Little Ruffle and The World Beyond’. All this stemmed from years of looking deeply into the psychological impact of the news. Yes, she discovered no shortage of negative impacts from the barrage of negativity and misinformation. But she also discovered plenty of evidence of the beneficial effects of more constructive news on our wellbeing and society. Not ‘feel good’ puff pieces - more rigorous, whole-picture reporting. And there began Jodie’s at times deeply challenging journey of writing the books, speaking regularly, and just last week, launching a global News Literacy Network. The by-line for the network is ‘empowering a more accurate worldview’. It says on its website: ‘We must develop the necessary skills to stand guard at the doors of our own mind. Our personal wellbeing, and wellbeing of the world depends on it.’ I first came across Jodie in the terrific news outlet Reasons to be Cheerful a couple of years ago, via a profoundly consequential piece about the responsibilities of media during pandemics and other major disease outbreaks. In it she alluded to the book she’d just written. So I reached out. And after a few twists of fate, we just happened to get together for this conversation the day after the new Network launched. This conversation was recorded online with Jodie at home in London, on 16 August 2022. Title slide image: Jodie Jackson. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia, available for community screenings now. Find more: Jodie’s website . News Literacy Network . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreo
Bonus · Mon, August 15, 2022
132 Extra. Kristy Stewart on enabling next generations
This special extra with Kristy Stewart features 20 additional minutes or so from our conversation. We went on here to talk about innovative enterprise development and next generation opportunities, and working with government and communities to help open these up. On the one hand, we talked changes to zoning and other regulations that inhibit young people and others joining in with value-add enterprises. And beyond that, Kristy’s been part of her community coming together in an influential local process reminiscent of what’s powered the community independents movement currently transforming politics in Australia. And we look at some of the incredible impacts of the education programs Kristy is co-developing at the farm. Title slide image: Kristy Stewart at the native flowers garden, alongside one of the regenerated dams at the farm (holding a picture of just how badly degraded it had become) (pic: Anthony James). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of Kristy and I in conversation in the main episode: ‘An Agroforestry Revolution: Kristy Stewart on family, community and spiritual transformation’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes too, along with some photos and a couple of videos on the episode web page. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S6 E132 · Mon, August 15, 2022
132. An Agroforestry Revolution: Kristy Stewart on family, community & spiritual transformation
Kristy Stewart is a regenerative farmer, free-diver, and next generation community leader. Kristy is already impressing audiences, students and other farmers around the country. And in a sense, it’s no surprise, given her pioneering family stock. Her father is Andrew Stewart, award-winning co-founder with Rowan Reid, in 1993, of the world-renowned Otway Agroforestry Network, in the south-east of Australia. Charles Massy describes it as the flagship of not only a revolution in agroforestry, but in peer-led transformative learning. And the Stewart’s 575-acre farm, Yan Yan Gurt West, is an extraordinary exemplar of what’s possible, in its astounding regeneration of landscape, productivity and community. Now Kristy’s own transformative journey is shaping the next generation of far-reaching possibilities. Kristy talks here with such raw openness about a major transformation in her life, stemming from a journey to South America, and how she’s attempting to live that out. When Kristy subsequently found herself part of a panel conversation with Di Haggerty, she was compelled to spend time with Di at her place. And that’s when I got a call from Di, mid-last year while we were based at Ningaloo Reef, telling me of this impressive couple of sisters at her place, and that one of them was heading our way next – would we be up for meeting? Suffice to say, Kristy made an impression on us too. And a bit under a year later, we were fortunate enough to be visiting the Stewart family farm. So the first half of our conversation is on some of the incredible story of this family, the regeneration of a landscape, and the broader revolution in their region and beyond. Ground breaking enough. Then the second half of our chat is on Kristy’s transformation, a deepening family story, and how all that’s shaping her taking up the mantle with the next generation. This conversation was recorded at Yan Yan Gurt West farm in the Otways of Victoria, on 18 April 2022. Title slide image: Kristy Stewart at home on the farm (supplied). You can see more photos on the episode web page . Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Stay tuned for a special extra to this episode, out next. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <l
S6 E131 · Mon, August 08, 2022
131. A Narrative of Possibility: A ‘Town Hall’ conversation with school striker Kate Fenech
Kate Fenech is an impressive 15 year old student who’s found herself part of the extraordinary SS4C movement (the School Strikes for Climate), with growing passions for marine science and regenerative farming. I met her when we were both late conscripts to a premiere screening of Regenerating Australia in Busselton, WA, that ended up becoming a unique post-film dialogue. The film’s director, Damon Gameau, was a late withdrawal, as was young activist and author, Bella Burgemeister. So Kate and I stepped into the breach, and that seemed to set up a vibe among the 75 or so people present of, ‘well I guess it’s just us!’ And to tell you the truth, for a while, I wondered if the whole thing was going to bomb. I’ve never hosted an event with an audience that was so pin-drop quiet. But that silence turned out to be more a measure of how much people were listening and contemplating, as just about everybody stayed, and we even drifted over time a little, for what became a frank, vital and ultimately wonderful community conversation. 3.45m - A short welcome from me 5.20m - A pre-recorded introduction to the film by Damon. (Damon actually came to feel that this was the most impactful part of the film tour, more than the film itself.) You can find the image Damon is talking to, on the episode webpage – that link’s in the show notes 10.35m - In conversation with Kate Fenech 22.15m - Our all-in dialogue starts This conversation was recorded in the week leading up to Australia’s recent transformative federal election, at Orana Cinema in Busselton WA, on 16 May 2022. Title slide image: Anthony James and Kate Fenech at the Orana Cinema in Busselton, WA (pic: Jennifer Seccull). You can see more photos on the episode web page, including the image Damon talks to in introducing the film . Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the film Regenerating Australia . Find more: School Strike 4 Climate Australia . Regenerating Australia is available for community screenings now (and grant applications, requests for materials etc.). Community Independents Project . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S6 E130 · Mon, August 01, 2022
130. One of the Major Transformations of Our Time: Dr Valerie Brown on the collective mind
Dr Valerie Brown is a Visiting Professor at the renowned Fenner School of Environment and Society at the Australian National University, and an international figure in the field of collective thinking, with a list of awards and accolades as long as your leg. But what brought me to her door was hearing doyen of regenerative agriculture, Charlie Massy, defer to her over the years. Charles was among her first students in the pioneering Human Ecology course in 1974 (a course the university establishment tried to have shut down). And when he returned to do the PhD that became the best-selling book Call of the Reed Warbler, Valerie was his supervisor. She’s “one of Australia’s greats”, he says. So after visiting the Massy farm earlier this year, Valerie was kind enough to welcome me to her place, up in the road in Canberra, for this conversation. Incidentally, my guest from episode 85, Cathy McGowan, was also a student of Val’s – and features here in a great story. But there was another milestone on my way to Val’s place too, that also goes back to the 70s. My old mate and mentor Professor Frank Fisher used to talk of the Fenner crew, and gifted me one of the many trailblazing books Val co-wrote, called Tackling Wicked Problems, published back in 2010. Though here, Valerie talks of how her work has progressed far beyond that, drawing on her considerable impact globally, including hundreds of workshops on collective learning as a tool for transformational change. This conversation was recorded in Canberra, 5 April 2022 (a month and a bit before the transformative federal election that resulted in so many more female independent MPs). Title slide image: In the backyard with Valerie Brown, at home in Canberra (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: The ABC Australian Story episode on Charles Massy features Valerie. Valerie’s extended bio , on her Collective Thinking website. And at the Fenner School . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a
S6 E129 · Mon, July 25, 2022
129. Changing Paradigms Over a Lifetime: A tribute to the legendary Hazel Henderson
Today’s episode features the legendary author, advisor and media producer, Hazel Henderson. Hazel has had such a big impact on so many, including yours truly. In my case, it has stemmed from over two decades following her work, and two hours of unhurried conversation for this podcast back in 2019. At the end of that conversation, Hazel invited me to visit if ever I was in Florida. And though I haven’t travelled overseas for 15 years, with emissions and other things in mind, I couldn’t help but wonder if one day that might be possible. Two months ago, however, the sad news arrived that Hazel had passed away, at the age of 89. So this episode is a tribute to Hazel, drawn from our 2-part conversation almost three years ago – essentially, it’s the first 25 minutes or so of part 1 and the last 20 minutes or so of part 2. So it starts at the start, giving you my full introduction to Hazel, and the priceless, unassuming nature of how our conversation began – with a personal exchange on how we were going about life, media, connection and learning. Then it’s over to her beginnings, for what became a much-loved, pioneering and globally recognised life. And it culminates with some profound poignance that blew me away when listening back to it now. Title slide image: Hazel Henderson at the outset, and towards the end (with EF Schumacher in the photo on the wall), of her public life (photos supplied – the latter taken by Vicki Robin). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The acoustic interlude about half way through is Cycles, by Simon Edwards (guitarist from the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra). The tune accompanying the outro is by Jeremiah Johnson. What If? (Impact: the Musical), by Jacqueline Emerson & co. – watch the film clip. Find more: A tribute to Hazel. Donate in honour of Hazel , and to assist with the collating of her life’s work (all Hazel’s books are also available electronically on this page, in exchange for that donation). If you’d like to hear the full 2-part conversation I shared with Hazel back in 2019 (and follow some additional links), head to episodes 49 and 50. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to
S6 E128 · Mon, July 18, 2022
128. Operating at Human Speed: Jade Miles on Futuresteading, funding a movement & finding a way
Jade Miles is an author, podcaster, farmer, organiser, speaker, and a few other things besides. I first came across Jade’s podcast, Futuresteading, back when it started. Then last year, the visual extravaganza of Futuresteading the book came along - sub-titled ‘live like tomorrow matters: practical skills, recipes and rituals for a simpler life’. It draws on Jade’s family life at Black Barn Farm – which features an incredible orchard of around 100 varieties of heritage fruit and berries, along with nursery, and workshop space in the Black Barn. Jade has also more recently become the CEO of Sustainable Table – so we get the inside story here of that transformative work and Fund we’ve heard a bit about in recent episodes. Jade is one terrific communicator and connector. And here there is also some pretty raw, honest and grounded reflection. We start with the fascinating and at times funny back story of their journey to becoming farmers, before exploring that inside story of Sustainable Table. Then standby for our chat about her book and podcast, particularly the one episode that shook her for days - with Tyson Yunkaporta. And that’s our take off point for exploring her profound experiments with ritual at home, deeply felt mother’s dilemma on education and rites of passage, and her emotional connection with her music selection – one that comes full circle to her life’s beginnings. This conversation was recorded at Black Barn Farm in Stanley, Victoria, on 29 March 2022. Title slide image: Jade Miles during our raspberry walk at the farm (pic: Anthony James). You can see more photos on the episode web page . Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Black Barn Farm . Futuresteading, the book . Futuresteading, the podcast (where btw, you can hear more of Jade and I in conversation, on episode 5 of series 5, 4 July 2022 – though it was recorded after our visit to Black Barn). Sustainable Table Fund . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining t
S6 E127 · Mon, July 11, 2022
127. Changing the Face of Farming & Milling in Australia, with Courtney Young & Ian Congdon
You might remember Ian Congdon and Courtney Young from one of the great stories we heard about last year, on how this young family is changing the face of farming - and milling - in Australia. That’s through their incredibly delicious enterprise Woodstock Flour, and Courtney’s spectacular art. As it happens, our conversation last year took place on the day they finished building the first Australian mill in who knows how long. And coincidentally, it was also settlement day for the purchase of their own farm. So after we visited Serenity and Kirsten for the last episode, we dropped in to meet Ian and Courtney in person at that farm. And again, while just intending to say hi, another riveting chat over dinner compelled us to sit down and put something on record for you all. What we found was another uplifting sighter of a brilliant couple continuing to manifest transformative visions. We start here with the first item of huge news – their major grant success from the Sustainable Table Fund. That’s the ground-breaking Fund we heard about in the last episode, and from Tanya Massy earlier this year. This represents a big step towards creating a local regenerative grains economy in their region. Then we delve into their attempt at an innovative renewable energy set up, their artistic and practical explorations of what it means to be land-owners now in the context of Aboriginal dispossession, and the many opportunities for others to join in these regenerative efforts. We also talk briefly about the changes in farming they’re observing with rapidly escalating input costs, some profound and entertaining experiments milling native grains from Black Duck Foods, and let’s just say a unique music selection on Ian’s part. This conversation was recorded on their farm near Rutherglen, Victoria, on 31 March 2022. Title slide image: Sunset at the Woodstock Flour farm near Rutherglen, Victoria (pic: Anthony James). You can find more photos on the episode web page , and a further selection of pics on the page of our first conversation together last year, on episode 89 (link below). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <
S6 E126 · Sun, July 03, 2022
126. Seeding & Protecting the Cultures We Need, with Serenity Hill & Kirsten Larsen
This is a profound personal and collective story right at the heart of systemic and cultural change. Serenity Hill and Kirsten Larsen are regenerative farmers and co-founders of the Open Food Network. You might remember my conversation with Kirsten online two years ago, as Covid took hold, and Open Food Network took off. At that stage, they’d experienced a tenfold increase in both people signing up to the platform and in turnover, while spanning over a dozen countries. A lot has happened since, too, with the Network, with the trailblazing land ownership and succession model we touched on last time, and on a transformative personal level. So when our family visited theirs recently, we had to pull up a pew on the front porch together, and press record. Our conversation starts with a very frank and vital conversation about land, ownership and money, and how investment can work best for those doing the actual work of regeneration. From there we delve into other ways to enable more of that work, including more values-based supply networks. And that leads us to where this pioneering couple is currently exploring further layers of personal transformation. Oh, and how over a decade ago, Serenity foresaw the independents movement that has just transformed Australia’s parliament. More on the Open Food Network: it’s a not-for-profit, global collaboration building food distribution systems that are fair, local and transparent. The Network’s flagship open source platform enables new, ethical supply chains. And in the wake of COVID-19 has gone to a whole new level, as producers look for alternative ways to sell quality produce, and eaters look for alternative ways to access it. This conversation was recorded in Violet Town, Victoria, on 29 March 2022. Title slide image: Serenity and Kirsten (L-R), just before pressing record on this conversation (Anthony’s foot just makes it into this slide – the full photo can be viewed on the episode web page , along with a couple of photos on the farm) (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Open Food Network. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
S6 E125 · Sun, June 26, 2022
125. Beyond Title Fight: Paul Cleary on the extraordinary Yindjibarndi triumph over a mining giant
Paul Cleary is a best-selling author and journalist who’s just written an incredible book – certainly a must read for any Aussie, and every West Aussie, with implications that arguably extend far beyond. It’s called ‘Title Fight: How the Yindjibarndi battled and defeated a mining giant’. The back cover bills it as ‘a David and Goliath story set in the ancient landscape of the Pilbara’. That’s in the north-west, here in WA. And the mining giant is Fortescue Metals Group (or FMG), led by billionaire Chairman Andrew Forrest. In the face of that company’s staggering array of unscrupulous tactics, intimidation and exploitation, the Yindjibarndi people and their leader Michael Woodley, prevailed through to the highest court in the land. And this story is far from done at the closing of that back cover. The implications of this extraordinary triumph continue to be enormous, for the Yindjibarndi, for Forrest and FMG, and for communities, economies and landscapes everywhere. For the Yindjibarndi have not just won a pivotal legal battle, they are demonstrating a model of holistic development that feels instructive for us all. And all based on deciding for themselves what sort of culture, community and commerce they want to create. This story is so relevant to not just how to stop Forrest and FMG (and anyone else) from such ongoing disregard for Australian and Aboriginal culture, heritage and law. But for what this might mean for the renewable energy transition and other laudable initiatives that Forrest and his Foundation are engaged with, and for the nearby flashpoint of Woodside’s Scarborough Gas proposal (and others), among the greatest rock art site in the world. This conversation was recorded by in Russell Square, Northbridge, in inner city Perth, on Whadjuk Noongar Country, 20 June 2022. Title slide: Paul Cleary, just before pressing record on this conversation (pic: Anthony James). You can also see the transcendent image of Ned Cheedy, aged 106, with Michael Woodley’s grandson, from the back cover of Paul’s book, on the episode web page . Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Title Fight: How the Yindjibar Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S6 E124 · Mon, June 20, 2022
124. Natural Intelligence: Jane Slattery on co-founding the ‘world breakthrough’ concept & practice
Jane Slattery is the co-founder, with Diane and Ian Haggerty, of natural intelligence farming – underpinning what Charles Massy has called their ‘world breakthrough’ operation. And to hear Di an Ian defer to Jane in many ways, had me so looking forward to meeting her. Then, earlier this year, I happened to be near Jane’s neck of the woods in South Australia, hosting one of the Planet Talks at WOMAD. Thankfully, she was up for coming into Adelaide for a chat. And more by fate than design, she follows the episode with the legend Fred Provenza. In some ways, Jane sings off a similar song sheet. But where Fred was led by science to soul, you could say Jane has come at it from soul first - while still utterly grounded in our embodied experience of a wondrous world. This is a very special and rare conversation. Jane is only now feeling like speaking publicly about her work in media like this. You’ll hear some of why. After running a successful family business around Australia, she gave it all up to follow a compelling sense of what she felt she needed to be doing. And, along with the Haggerty’s, she has gone on to guide and inspire an increasing number of brilliant regenerative outcomes around the country. This conversation was recorded by the River Torrens in Adelaide, on the land of the Kaurna people, on 15 March 2022. Title slide: Jane Slattery (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Jane Slattery. You can meet Jane at the upcoming RCS Australia conference in Brisbane in July. And if you’d like to hear from Di and Ian Haggerty out on their farm. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Ap
Bonus · Mon, June 13, 2022
123 Extra. A Cosmic Voyager with Amnesia, Fred Provenza in Part 2 of The Wisdom Body
This extra to episode 123, with the legendary Fred Provenza, delves into more of the metaphysical context of everything we spoke about in the main episode. We traverse the spectra of collapse and regeneration, and how we can live well in all that, here and now. There are some profound stories of personal transformation here – and an ultimate convergence of mythology and mysticism with his life’s work on the wisdom body. This part of our conversation led up to the ‘music question’ that closed the main episode, so it’ll also give a bit more context to Fred’s moving response there. Title slide: the cover to Fred’s book Nourishment (linked in the main episode below). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of my conversation with Fred Provenza in the main episode: ‘The Wisdom Body: Fred Provenza on a paradigm change in animal, human and planetary health’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes there too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S6 E123 · Mon, June 13, 2022
123. The Wisdom Body: Fred Provenza on a paradigm change in animal, human & planetary health
Professor Fred Provenza is the legendary behavioural ecologist and author who has revolutionised how we understand the nature of animal health and intelligence, and its connection to our human health and intelligence. This includes the regenerative role of livestock, in all sorts of ways. And through his own deep personal trials and transformations, Fred has come to embody this knowledge in ways that shine a light not only on the extraordinary regenerative capacities of nature, including humans, but how regenerating all human systems stems from the wisdom of our bodies. Fred’s published a few books on all this, culminating a few years ago in his master work, ‘Nourishment: What Animals Can Teach Us About Rediscovering Our Nutritional Wisdom’. It’s been called a ‘paradigm-changing exploration’ with ‘implications that could vastly improve our health through a simple change in the way we view our relationships with the plants and animals we eat’. Montana Public Radio said: “Nourishment is a conversation between science, culture, and a greater spiritual or cosmological umbrella.” Indeed, you might describe this conversation the same way. More on Fred: As professor emeritus of Behavioral Ecology in the Department of Wildland Resources at Utah State University, Provenza directed an award-winning research group focused on how learning influences foraging behavior and how behavior links soils and plants with herbivores and humans. In addition to penning a book, he is one of the founders of BEHAVE, an international network of scientists and land managers. This conversation was recorded online, with Fred at home in Montana USA, on 8 June 2022. Title slide: Fred Provenza (supplied). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Tune into the special extra to this episode with Fred , ‘A Cosmic Voyager with Amnesia’. Fred’s book Nourishment : What Animals Can Teach Us about Rediscovering Our Nutritional Wisdom. The BEHAVE international network Fred co-founded. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <ul
S6 E122 · Mon, June 06, 2022
122. Regenerating Australia Live, with Damon Gameau, Heidi Mippy, Di Haggerty & Oral McGuire
Damon Gameau, the award-winning director of That Sugar Film and 2040, toured his new film Regenerating Australia around Western Australia’s south a few weeks ago. Joining him on the panel in Leederville, inner-city Perth, was highly regarded First Nations woman Heidi Mippy, Natural Intelligence Farming co-founder Dianne Haggerty, and me. Ballardong Noongar man, Oral McGuire, who you’ll have heard mentioned a bit on this podcast (like in eps 87 and 105), granted us the privilege of his powerful Welcome to Country. And as you’ll hear, in some ways, proceedings on this night presaged the transformative federal election that was to come two days later (see ep 121 for more on that). Incidentally, I’ll release the inspiring panel conversations from Margaret River and Fremantle for subscribers to the podcast on Patreon – so do jump on there if you haven’t yet! And I ended up hosting the Busselton event, where a very distinct conversation took place – I’ll have that out for you all to hear soon. For now, it’s over to the Luna Cinema in Leederville, where 300 people came along for this final west coast screening, the penultimate event of Damon’s national tour, on 19 May 2022. 3.00m - Oral’s Welcome 9.00m - Damon’s entry at the end of the film & panel exchange 21.45m - Questions from the audience Title slide: the Regenerating Australia tour image (supplied). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Regenerating Australia is available for community screenings now (and grant applications, requests for materials etc.). It’ll also screen at the Beverley Town Hall, in the wheatbelt of WA, on 17 June , with panel conversation featuring Oral McGuire, Di Haggerty, Grant Revell & Damon Gameau (online), hosted by Anthony James. And for more on the RCS Australia conference. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal</
Bonus · Mon, May 30, 2022
121 Extra. How Election Day Unfolded, with Kate Chaney in the now independent seat of Curtin
This extra to episode 121 follows how election day unfolded with Kate Chaney, in the now independent seat of Curtin. You’ll hear the growing atmosphere on the day, culminating in an extraordinary night, with powerful words from Kate that give great insight into the building of a community, and a campaign. We start at the local polling booth, and hear from Kate early on. Then it’s on to the Claremont Showgrounds for what was certainly our first election night candidate celebration – and we weren’t alone in that. You’ll hear a special Welcome to Country from Carol Innes AO. Then campaign manager, Sarah Silbert, introduces Kate. And if you last through to the end of it, you might hear a certain podcast host rock out a little Ode to Kate to close the evening celebration. Stage host, and another prominent campaign contributor, was James Lush. This was recorded on election day, 21 May 2022. Title slide: the bicycle powered billboards mentioned in the main episode, sitting outside the Scarborough Primary School polling station on election day. Music: Ode to Kate, by Anthony James. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear my conversation with Kate Chaney six days later , after she was confirmed as having won the seat, in the main episode: ‘A Political Paradigm Shift: Kate Chaney on becoming the 7th new female independent MP in Australia’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes there too, and some photos. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. <br
S6 E121 · Mon, May 30, 2022
121. A Political Paradigm Shift: Kate Chaney on being the 7th new independent female MP in Australia
Kate Chaney has become the first female independent MP from Western Australia to be elected to the Australian parliament – along with a whopping eleven other independents. A year ago to the day on this podcast, Cathy McGowan – Australia’s first female independent MP in 2013 – talked of the potential to transform politics in this country by 2030. Merely a year on, and that transformation is well underway. This story isn’t limited to Australia either. But more on that another day. This Australian story is now global news. The BBC and Time Magazine were among many beaming into Kate Chaney’s election night event. I’ll put out a special extra to this episode next, following how election day unfolded with Kate in the now independent seat of Curtin. For now, join Kate and I the day after her win was confirmed, as the sun set on Cottlesloe Beach. This conversation was recorded among Friday evening revelers at Cottesloe Beach, on the day after the seat of Curtin was won by Kate Chaney, 27 May 2022. Title slide: Kate Chaney speaking at her election night event (pic: #MilesTweediePhotography). You can find more photos on the episode webpage. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: Tune into the special extra to this episode, ‘How Election Day Unfolded , with Kate Chaney in the now independent seat of Curtin’. (You'll find more photos of that night on the website too.) You can hear my conversation with Kate at the start of her campaign in February, accompanied by some photos and links (with a link, also, to the episode with Cathy McGowan a year ago). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by
S6 E120 · Mon, May 23, 2022
120. The Hidden Roots of Restoration: Tony Rinaudo on The Forest Underground, mindsets & new book
Tony Rinaudo instigated what’s been called “probably the largest positive environmental transformation in the Sahel and perhaps in all of Africa." They call him The Forest Maker, but Tony will tell you the transformation was really in the people, starting with himself. I had this conversation with Tony back in 2020, and have never forgotten it. It’s one of those stories you wish everyone knew. So when Tony reached out to me recently to let me know he’d just finished his autobiography, and given there are so many more of you listening to this podcast now than there were two years ago, it seemed fitting to re-release this excerpt of our conversation. The new book is called The Forest Underground: Hope for a Planet in Crisis. It follows Tony’s journey from Australia to Niger, and tells the miraculous story of how his discovery revolutionised reforestation in Africa, restoring over 18 million hectares of degraded land across 27 countries, without planting trees - and all led by the people who live there. But really, that’s not the half of this story. As a metaphor, it’s a revelation of the sheer scale of possibility if we focus on tending and harvesting what’s already within us, as people and planet. This conversation culminates in some of the most extraordinary, moving and instructive stories I’ve ever heard. “I’m often called The Forest Maker, or Tree Whisperer. Don’t believe a word of it. 95% of my time is spent re-greening mindscapes. If we win that battle, the rest is relatively easy.” – Tony Rinaudo, at his virtual book launch on 22 April 2022. “For years I have longed to see this biography written. And it lives up to my every hope.” - Tim Costello, CEO World Vision Australia 2004–2016. This conversation was recorded online with Tony at home in Melbourne, in June 2020. Title slide: Tony Rinaudo in the field (supplied). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , available for community screenings now. Find more: If you’re in Australia or NZ, you can buy ‘The Forest Underground: Hope for a Planet in Crisis’ on the publisher’s website . Or you can get it on the Book depository, or wherever you get your books. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please co
S6 E119 · Mon, May 16, 2022
119. Conversations with Coal Miners about Climate Change: Kim Paul Nguyen on his ‘must-watch’ film
Kim Paul Nguyen is a multimedia journalist and filmmaker. He recently produced a documentary film called ‘Conversations with Coal Miners about Climate Change’, funded by the Walkley Foundation and distributed by VICE. And what a film. Damon Gameau, the award-winning filmmaker of 2040, That Sugar Film, and most recently Regenerating Australia, calls it a ‘must-watch’. In many ways, there is no more important a story. And Kim navigates it beautifully. Though not without hitting up against the challenges that make this work so vital. Out of the story’s dramatic and moving turns so much is revealed, including how coal miners, and the rest of us, are too often used as political pawns. And how we can get out of that trap, to have a chance at achieving more of the bigger picture outcomes just about all of us want. Kim’s is a heck of a life story to date, and this provides the backdrop to the film. As a young person deeply concerned about climate change, he became a committed activist. In 2009 he cycled from Australia to Denmark to promote action on climate change, and was nominated for Young Australian of the Year. But it started to dawn on him that what he was doing wasn’t working. It wasn’t changing things the way he’d hoped. So he headed north, camera in hand, to dig deeper into what might. Kim has also written for The Guardian, Al Jazeera, VICE and the Big Issue. This conversation was recorded online with Kim at home in Sydney, on 11 May 2022. Title slide: Kim setting up in Clermont, Queensland (supplied). Music: Temporary, by Yen Nguyen. Find more of Yen’s tunes. Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , on tour around Western Australia this week. Find more: Kim’s website. Kim’s film ‘Conversations With Coal Miners About Climate Change’ (37 minutes, freely available). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits <a href='https://www.patreon.com/RegenNarration'
S6 E118 · Mon, May 09, 2022
118. Farming Fire, Forests & Fish: Agostino Petroni on solutions journalism & great success stories
Agostino Petroni is a journalist, author, economist, gastronome, and 2021 Pulitzer Center Reporting Fellow. His work appears in National Geographic, BBC, The Atlantic and many more. I first came across it in Reasons to be Cheerful, the terrific news outlet founded by one of my all-time favourite musicians and producers, David Byrne. That outlet is part of a growing movement sometimes called ‘solutions journalism’. Though you might just call it good journalism. And Agostino’s article that first caught my eye is a great example of that – outlining a terrific success story so relevant to some of the pioneering efforts – and vital needs - we’ve heard about in this podcast. One of the most fascinating and popular stories on the podcast was featured in the 100th episode under the title Wanted Land Doctors. I’ve had many interesting exchanges in the wake of that episode, including with a listener in the eastern states who shared stories of goats being used by public agencies to reduce fire fuel loads after the horrific Black Summer fires here in Australia. It turns out that the Mediterranean region has created some great models in this mould, that are successfully getting people back on Country, with communities and their livelihoods reinvigorated, and trajectories of mega-fire, extinction and polarised politics reversed. In the first half of this episode, we talk about Agostino’s unexpected personal journey into the work he does, his formative film-making journey to Latin America, and this phenomenon of so-called ‘solutions journalism’. In the back half, we delve into some of the incredible stories he’s found, principally that piece from Reasons to be Cheerful, and the patterns we’ve observed. This conversation was recorded online with Agostino at home in Puglia, Italy, on 3 May 2022. Title slide: Agostino Petroni at TEDx Barletta. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , screening around the country now. Find more: The article from Reasons to be Cheerful ‘Grazing Livestock Among the Trees Is Helping to Prevent Wildfires’. Some of Agostino’s broader work. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please c
S6 E117 · Mon, May 02, 2022
117. Healing People, Healing Country: Elder Eugene Eades on the profound restoration of Nowanup
A lost and angry childhood spawned a champion boxer, and out of this, a community leader. And fifteen years ago, Eugene Eades became the backbone of the incredible restoration of Country at Nowanup - inland of Bremer Bay in the south of Western Australia. This is a particularly privileged conversation on Country at Nowanup, with this legendary Aboriginal elder. Eugene might move a little slower than those championship days, but his sharp eyes, wry humour, and rock solid presence resonate as powerfully as ever. Nowanup is a 750ha property that is part of the broader 1,000km stretch of restoration happening through the Gondwana Link network (featured on episode 79). The Healing People/Healing Country initiative at Nowanup has been unique and transformative for both People and Country for since 2006. Eugene has led cultural and educational camps for communities, schools and universities, youth at risk and justice intervention programs, eco-art projects, music festivals, cultural heritage assessments and much more. Importantly, Nowanup has formed an important place of respite for local Noongar people to recharge and continue to care for each other. The more than 16,000 visitors to Nowanup have also included other Indigenous people from all over Australia, and non-indigenous people from all over the world. And since the Nowanup ranger programs were established, a string of Ranger groups has been formed across the region. Join us with a little audience around the fire in one of the thatched meeting places at Nowanup, for a treasured yarn, and a special tune from Eugene. This conversation was recorded on Country at Nowanup on 24 January 2022. Title slide: Eugene Eades showing us around Nowanup (pic: Anthony James). You can see a few other photos of the beautiful Country at Nowanup on the episode web page. Music: Looking Back To Yesterday Again, by Eugene Eades, performed with Bruce Anthony. Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , screening around the country now. Find more: Nowanup website. A direct link to the beautiful 10 minute short film mentioned. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
S6 E116 · Mon, April 25, 2022
116. Restoration on Mt Romance: Louise O’Neill on holistic health, farming & change
Louise O’Neill is a British-born holistic health professional and farmer. She met husband Warren as a backpacker, and now with their two sons, they’ve embarked on a gutsy, vivid and transformative journey. The O’Neills were farmers in the wheatbelt of Western Australia, but reached a point where the tribulations and toxicity of that life were literally hitting them in the face. When a tractor breakdown prompted personal breakdown, they picked up and moved south, took courses in regenerative agriculture, and started to turn their new farm’s fortunes around. And out of all this, Louise began to expand her passion and enterprise for helping to improve the health of regional families across the country. When we returned south from the Kimberley late last year, we had earmarked some time south in the new year with Tanya Massy and her partner Kris, near Denmark in Western Australia (that story features in the previous episode). With Tanya just setting up her place, Louise and Warren reached out to welcome us to their home. And as we got to know each other a little, I was struck again by the gutsy transformations being negotiated in people’s lives everywhere. This was another brilliant and moving story of regeneration. And again, with an invitation to others to explore the abundant opportunities with them. Update: Soon after this was recorded, Louise was named a finalist in the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award. A week later, she was declared the winner. She now goes into the mix for the national award. This conversation was recorded in the dappled shade by the creek at Mt Romance farm on 28 January 2022. Title slide: the entrance to Mt Romance farm (pic: Olivia Cheng). You can see a few photos from Mt Romance on the episode web page too. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , screening around the country now. Find more: Farm Life Fitness. Visit Mt Romance farm (their farm-stay business). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate v
Bonus · Mon, April 18, 2022
115 Extra - Mountainside to Oceanside … & Back: Tanya Massy on heartbreak & home
Part 2 of this episode with Tanya Massy was recorded in two locations. The first half was recorded back at the farm in Western Australia, on that hay bale. We delved further into Tanya’s deep personal journey of leaving Severn Park and starting up a new farming enterprise on the other side of the country. That was recorded back in January, as that enterprise was just going to market. Then came heartbreak. Soon after we left, Tanya and Kris had to pull the plug on it all and return to the Massy farm at Severn Park. As fate would have it, come late March, Tanya and Kris had just arrived back at Severn Park when we were in northern Victoria visiting Ian and Courtney (my guests from episode 89). So we followed the Murray River for a while, wound our way through the Snowy Mountains, and reconnected with Tanya back at Severn Park for the second half of this episode. We talk about what happened, how they’re recovering, how the land is thriving, and what they’re starting up now. This conversation was recorded on-location at Severn Park in New South Wales, on 3 April 2022. Title slide: The ‘treehouse’ – Charlie Massy’s office, inside which this conversation was recorded, at Severn Park farm (pic: Anthony James). See the episode web page for a selection of photos from Severn Park, including some spectacular 'before and after' shots. Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of Tanya and I in conversation in the main episode: ‘Farming Wonder: Tanya Massy on growing up, starting up and scaling up regeneration’. You’ll find a few links in the show notes, and a few more photos on that episode web page too. And if you’re interested, you can hear the WOMAD event I hosted with Charlie Massy , along with Anika Molesworth and Bruce Pascoe, on the WOMAD podcast. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits <a href='https://www.patreon.com/RegenNarrat
S6 E115 · Tue, April 12, 2022
115. Farming Wonder: Tanya Massy on growing up, starting up & scaling up regeneration
Tanya Massy is one of three brilliant daughters of regenerative agriculture legend, Charles Massy. Though she’ll tell you she’s been equally inspired by the strength and spirit of her mother Fiona. Great lineage aside, Tanya is forging her own pivotal path as a regenerative farmer, award-winning writer, and highly respected researcher. A couple of recent reports, in particular, are making a big impact, exploring the barriers to regeneration, and breakthrough opportunities, with communities around Australia and the world. Stemming from that, she’s helping to create more of those breakthrough opportunities in some significant ways. Meanwhile, she continues to chart her own farming journey, starting up a new enterprise far from home. This is where we meet for this conversation - at the new farm, Wildewood, near the town of Denmark in the south of Western Australia. I’d last seen Tanya there in late 2020, just as they were settling on the land purchase. A little over a year later, and we’re one of their first customers at the local farmers market. But none of this story follows a straight line. This conversation was recorded at Wildewood Farm on 23 January 2022. Title slide: Tanya in the foreground, with little companion Nullaki at her feet, partner Kris to her right, and Olivia to her left (pic: Anthony James). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , screening around the country now. Find more: Tune into Part 2 to this episode, Mountainside to Oceanside ... & Back. Changing Face of Farming magazine, with Tanya on the cover. Sustainable Table Fund. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to th
S6 E114 · Sun, April 03, 2022
114. Independents surging towards the election, with Cathy McGowan AO
I had this conversation with Cathy McGowan in the middle of last year, just as the community independents movement in Australia was really picking up. Since then, it’s been astronomical – the number of ‘voices for’ groups has exploded around the country, followed by an array of quality candidates that have responded to their communities’ calls to contest the next federal election. And many of them are genuine contenders. So with the election now due next month, it seemed a good time to re-release this pragmatic and inspired last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with Cathy. The community Cathy represented in the seat of Indi changed the trajectory of politics in this country, and may just be about to see it transform altogether. I’ve just spent some time visiting people around Indi, and seen posters of Helen Haines, Cathy’s brilliant successor, in town after town. And why wouldn’t they be? Perhaps this little excerpt can help spur us along towards what Cathy envisages as the transformation of politics in this country by 2030. We pick things up with a powerful sequence from Cathy, and an insight into what’s bubbling up around the country in the lead up to the next federal election. We then go into how things worked for her, as the first female independent MP to sit on the Australian parliamentary crossbench, and other increasingly successful independents, on the ground – the practical realities, the value set, and the networks of support that make it all possible. We close with more of the vision, strategy and supportive infrastructure being developed, to get more community-minded independents elected. Oh, and an express request from Cathy to share this podcast. Title slide: Just one of the many Helen Haines billboards all around Indi right now. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in episode 85 , ‘Politics That Works: A proven way becoming a powerful movement’. And my conversation with our local independent candidate, Kate Chaney, is in episode 110 , ‘Independents Day: Kate Chaney on contesting a key seat & transforming politics’. There are a series of links on each of those episode web pages too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <li
Bonus · Wed, March 30, 2022
113 Extra. Transformaciones con la Cultura Maya y la Permacultura, con María Inés Cuj y Rony Lec
This is a Spanish version of episode 113. Esta es una versión en español del episodio 113. Aqui, por supuesto, Inés habla por sí misma, y Rony traduce mis palabras. Desafortunadamente, no incluye las partes del episodio principal donde Rony y yo hablamos en inglés, cuando me dirigía a él directamente. Pero incluye una platica divertida extraoficial donde hablamos entre nosotros tres en español. Retomamos nuestra conversación al principio. El Instituto Mesoamericano de Permacultura (IMAP) es una cooperativa sin fines de lucro que comenzó en el año 2000 en San Lucas Tolimán, a orillas del espectacular Lago de Atitlán en las tierras altas Mayas de Guatemala. Fue creado por un grupo de Kakchiquel Mayas con el deseo de usar semillas nativas, permacultura, conocimientos indígenas tradicionales y educación, para crear recuperación social después de 36 años de conflicto armado que eliminó a cientos de comunidades y desplazó a millones de sus tierras. Recuerdo haberme inspirado con el IMAP en sus primeros años, cuando vivía en Guatemala. Y a finales del año pasado, los organizadores de un importante premio mundial me contactaron para informarme de que IMAP era uno de sus ganadores. Esta conversacion fue grabada por el 1 de Marzo 2022 con Inés en Guatemala y Rony en Canada. Foto principal: Lago de Atitlán. Música: Stones & Bones, por Owls of the Swamp. Encuentra más: Puedes escuchar la versión en inglés de Inés, Rony y yo en conversación en el episodio principal: 'Transformations with Mayan Culture and Permaculture'. También encontrarás algunas fotos allí. IMAP sitio de web Lush Spring Prize Spring Prize sitio de web sobre IMAP Ethical Consumer sitio de web Y su sitio dedicado al Lush Spring Prize Se puede ver los premios en seis idiomas diferentes aqui . Gracias, como siempre, a los generosos seguidores de este podcast, por hacerlo posible. Si usted también valora lo que escucha, considere Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S6 E113 · Sun, March 27, 2022
113. Transformations with Mayan Culture & Permaculture, with María Inés Cuj & Rony Lec
El Instituto Mesoamericano de Permacultura (IMAP) - the Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute - is a not-for-profit coop that started in 2000 in San Lucas Tolimán, on the shores of the spectacular Lake Atitlán in the Mayan highlands of Guatemala. It was created by a group of Maya Kakchiquel with the desire to use native seeds, permaculture, traditional Indigenous knowledge and education, to create social healing after 36 years of armed conflict that wiped out hundreds of communities and displaced millions from their land. I remember being inspired by IMAP in its early years, when I was living in Guatemala. And late last year, I was contacted by the organisers of a major global award advising that IMAP was one of its winners. I had arranged to speak with IMAP coordinator Inés Cuj, only to find twice the privilege when founding director Rony Lec joined us as a translator. Rony is one of the world’s leading experts in permaculture and Mayan ancestral knowledge. Rony’s father was killed by the army during the war, and he has recently moved to Canada to secure the safety of his family. And, he says, to get his hands back in the soil. Inés succeeded Rony in the lead role, and Rony credits her with bringing so much of what IMAP needed to take its vital next steps. From empowering women and youth, to developing the viability of IMAP itself, along with that of the many farmers and communities with whom they work. With thanks to Clare Carlile and team at the legendary Ethical Consumer magazine in the UK for setting up this conversation. Turns out they’d been inspired by the podcast and wondered if I’d be interested in becoming a media partner of a major global award they’d helped create with Lush Cosmetics a few years prior. It’s called the Lush Spring Prize, and it offers a £200,000 fund and other support for regenerative projects around the world. This conversation was recorded online on 1 March 2022, Australian time, with Inés in Guatemala and Rony in Canada. Title slide: María Inés Cuj (supplied). You can see a few more photos on the episode website. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia . Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <ul
Bonus · Fri, March 18, 2022
112 Extra. On the Banks of the Martuwarra: Part 2 of my conversation with Natalie Davey
This extra to episode 112 features the rest of my conversation with Traditional Custodian of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, Natalie Davey. We pick up our conversation with a couple minutes more of Natalie’s description of the kinship systems of her Indigenous community. Then we delve into the brilliant story of how Nat and her old man ended up hosting a show on the local First Nations radio station – and some of the enormous benefits stemming from it. And we go on to what Natalie thinks is needed most right now, some of her fascinating family histories, and why she feels so positive about people. Title slide: Anthony and Natalie in conversation for this episode, at Nat’s place on the banks of the Martuwarra (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. You Shine, by the kids with Tura. Find more: You can hear more of Natalie and I in conversation in the main episode: ‘We All Need to Connect: Natalie Davey on protecting the Martuwarra Fitzroy River - and everything else’. You’ll find links in the show notes there too, along with some photos on that episode web page. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S6 E112 · Mon, March 14, 2022
112. We All Need to Connect: Natalie Davey on protecting the Martuwarra - & everything else
Our final episode recorded in the Kimberley last year features Natalie Davey, a Bunuba-Walmajarri woman, Traditional Custodian of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, first Indigenous Chair of Environs Kimberley, broadcaster, artist, educator and so much more. What a privilege it was to be welcomed to her home and Country, on the banks of the River just outside Fitzroy Crossing. The Martuwarra is one of the last wild rivers in the world and, as you may have heard in previous episodes, it’s at the heart of another flashpoint right now. Extractive colonial narratives of ‘advancing the north’ persist. One of Australia’s outstanding audio documentary makers, Kirsti Melville, entitled her recent 2-part ABC podcast on this place: ‘First they came for the land, now they come for the water’. But then, Nat recalls how her own Indigenous grandmother was afraid of Native Title, fearing it might mean she had to return to a tough life on Country. So if anyone can speak to where we go from here, it’s Nat. This is a very special conversation by the Martuwarra, a deep insight into the Kimberley, its extraordinary Country and rich cultures, how we can avert the threats to it all, and be part of the growing regenerative collaborations and economies everywhere. We talked for nearly two hours, having given this the time it needed. So there’ll be an extra to this episode released next week too, with this natural, wise and generous guide to the Martuwarra. This conversation was recorded on Natalie’s Country by the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, just outside of Fitzroy Crossing in the Kimberley region in the far north of Western Australia, on 24 September 2021. Title slide: The view of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River from Nat’s place (pic: Anthony James). You'll see some more pics on the episode website too. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , screening around the country now. You Shine, by Tura Music . Find more: Tune into the extra to this episode, On the banks of the Martuwarra Environs Kimberley (where Nat is now Chair). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.</p
S6 E111 · Sun, March 06, 2022
111. Movement at the Station: David Pollock on the Minister’s return & big changes at Wooleen
David Pollock is one of Australia’s most prominent regenerative pastoralists. He and wife Frances have featured a few times on the award-winning ABC TV series Australian Story. But I’m more fond of telling people these days they’ve featured a few times on this podcast! David’s also known for his brilliant book, ‘The Wooleen Way: Renewing an Australian Resource’. That was aptly described as ‘The astonishing story of reviving the oldest land on Earth’. When the book was published a few years ago, the Western Australian State Minister for Regional Development, Agriculture and Food (& now Hydrogen) paid David and Frances a visit to talk about it. A few years on, just last week, the Minister returned with a big announcement. This was going to be a shorter episode about just that – that was big enough. But when David and I were talking about that, we ended up talking about some other big changes – in himself. So you’ll find the first half an hour of our conversation is on the significant array of developments afoot right now. And the rest, the personal transformations at the heart of them all. This conversation was recorded online on Thursday 3 March 2022. Title slide: Minister Alannah MacTiernan, David Pollock & Debbie Dowden, Chairperson of the Southern Rangelands Pastoral Alliance, at Wooleen Station for the big announcement last week (sourced from the Ministers ‘social media’ post). Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , launching this week. Find more: Wooleen Station. David’s book ‘The Wooleen Way: Renewing an Australian Resource’. The Minister’s media statement on the Southern Rangelands Revitalisation Pilot. Landholders for Dingoes. You can hear more of David and I in conversation, out at Wooleen Station, for episode 66. You can hear the detailed conversation David and I shared on the release of his book ‘The Wooleen W Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S6 E110 · Mon, February 28, 2022
110. Independents Day: Kate Chaney on contesting a key seat & transforming politics
Kate Chaney is another of the growing number of independent candidates being announced around the country who might have a big say in the next pivotal federal election here in May. Kate is being described by many media outlets as Liberal Party royalty. That’s the nominally conservative party in Australia – or at least it has been, prior to this incoherent incarnation currently in government. Kate’s uncle, Fred Chaney, was a prominent Liberal Party parliamentarian, and her grandfather too. But three weeks ago at her campaign launch, Fred endorsed Kate as the independent candidate for the federal seat of Curtin, given the dire need for systemic change. Curtin is reportedly the fifth safest Liberal Party seat in the country. But it’s not feeling like that now. Notwithstanding those media headlines, Kate’s been on her own path with politics, and everything else. And on the back of that, she came across the radar of Curtin Independent, the community group formed in Curtin to do what so many other communities are doing – seeking and nominating independent candidates; candidates not after a political career or power for its own sake, but to represent their communities. Imagine. And she’s standing to win. This conversation was recorded at Galup / Lake Monger, in the inner north-west of the city of Perth, Western Australia, on Tuesday 22 February 2022. Title slide: Kate Chaney (from her website). You can see a few more photos on the episode website, including of the campaign launch we talked about. Music: Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia , launching this week. Find more: Kate’s website. Curtin Independent, the community group from which Kate was asked to stand. The national Community Independents Project , steered by Cathy McGowan and team. If you’d like to hear my conversation with Cathy McGowan from last year, as this independents movement was gathering momentum, head to episode 85 . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https:
S6 E109 · Mon, February 21, 2022
109. Cultural Economies at the Greatest Rock Art Gallery in the World, with Clinton Walker
Clinton Walker is a Traditional Custodian of the incredible Murujuga (or Burrup Peninsula), on the north-west coast of Australia. You might recall my conversations with archaeologist Peter Veth and the co-authors of Songlines, Lynne Kelly and Margo Neale, last year. They all related back to this place – where the Songlines start, as Clinton puts it. So at the end of last year, as my family and I headed south from the Kimberley, Clinton and I met up to record a yarn for the Clean State podcast, the spin-off series from The RegenNarration specific to my home state of Western Australia. That podcast is a shorter snappier format. But with so much at stake here right now, and so much to appreciate about what he’s up to, Clinton and I settled in for an extended chat. So here’s the rest of what we recorded together. Murujuga houses the largest rock art collection in the world – around one million petroglyphs, some dating back about 40,000 years. The World Heritage nomination for this place is a shoe-in, unless it’s jeopardised by current industry expansion plans – most notoriously, the Scarborough Gas Field proposal, currently being challenged in court and elsewhere, with the stakes running far beyond this incredible ancient place. But there are better ways to go about things here. And Traditional Custodian Clinton Walker is uniquely placed to say. He was a highly paid technician with one of the mining companies here, but he ultimately couldn't bear the harm it was causing his Country. He now runs an extremely successful tour operation called Ngurrangga Tours, and is living the message that sustainable industries such as Indigenous cultural tourism are enormously beneficial - economically, for Country, and for bringing our cultures together. Clinton sat us down on a very special part of his Country for this yarn on 13 December 2021. Update: The Cultural Heritage Reform Bill has since passed the WA State Parliament, without alteration. Title slide: Clinton Walker (supplied). You can see more photos on the episode website. Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Regeneration, composed by Amelia Barden, from the soundtrack of the new film Regenerating Australia . Find more: To hear the rest of my conver Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S6 E108 · Mon, February 14, 2022
108. Regenerating Australia: Damon Gameau on the new film, fund & 2030 vision
Damon Gameau has been a wonderful presence in so many of our lives for a couple of decades now - from his prominent acting career, to his transformation into an award-winning film-maker. There’s his timeless Tropfest winner Animal Beatbox, through to his legendary documentary features That Sugar Film and 2040. Now there’s a new film about to launch, with the vision honed towards 2030. This vital decade. It’s another master work – a short film with a big story. It’s called Regenerating Australia. Along with the film, there’ll be another huge outreach effort, a community projects funding program, and more. This time, Damon draws on visions expressed by communities around Australia, uniting on key themes across political and other divides. This is our take off point, and from there our conversation weaves through some of the many layers of the film, our country, and our respective personal paths. From what Regeneration means, and how to protect it, to the practicalities of how the film will roll out in the lead up to a pivotal and promising federal election. The community independents movement continues to gather momentum, along with so many other aspects of regeneration. Though I wondered, given Damon’s focus on these stories of regeneration, how we might hold the darker aspects. And how his friendship with the late great Aboriginal performer David Gulpilil shaped his understanding of story, from the perspective of this Country’s first story-tellers. You’ll also hear a sneak preview of the beautiful soundtrack to the new film. This conversation was recorded online on 11 February 2022. Title slide: Damon Gameau (supplied). Music: Regeneration (from the Regenerating Australia soundtrack), composed by Amelia Barden. Find more: Regenerating Australia. If you’d like to hear my conversation with Cathy McGowan that Damon referred to, head to episode 85 . And you’ll find the Songlines book we talk about here. You can also hear my previous conversations with Damon on the podcast for episodes 30 (just as 2040 was being finished), 38 (when it premiered in Perth) & 77 (when 2021 began). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all
S6 E107 · Mon, February 07, 2022
107. It’s a Transformation, with regenerative farming pioneer Dianne Haggerty
Dianne Haggerty probably doesn’t need an introduction these days. When last on the podcast for episode 68 around 18 months ago, I’d come to visit Di and husband Ian to learn about their world breakthrough regenerative farming operation. You’ll have heard them mentioned in a number of episodes since (and featured on ABC TV and elsewhere). Their natural intelligence ethos, fierce grace and incredible story of regeneration ignite the imagination. And their episode remains among the top 6 most listened to on this podcast. So when we were heading south from the Kimberley late last year, we dropped in. Join us under the stars on a warm December evening, for a quick catch up on some of the brilliant and challenging aspects of their year. Their regeneration of country continues apace, but there’s a clarion call here too. And fittingly it has echoes of Petrine McCrohan in the previous episode, noting that one was recorded in the region of the Haggerty’s old haunt and their transformation. This conversation was recorded on 23 December 2021. Title slide: Dianne and Ian Haggerty, showing our young fella the ropes on one of the repaired headers (pic: Anthony James). You can see a few other pics on the episode website. Music: The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Rockin’ in the 80s, by Dr Sparkles ( sourced from the Free Music Archive ). Find more: To hear my extended conversation with Di and Ian back on the farm in 2020, and see a range of links and photos, head to episode 68. The influential Textile Exchange Report, hot off the press, that the Haggerty’s were engaged extensively in: ‘Regenerative Agriculture Landscape Analysis’. And my young fella did his own podcast episode with Di, so of course I’m including that link here too! ‘How do you harvest all this (and can I drive the harvesting machine)?’ (or on Spotify - episode 8) Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='h
S6 E106 · Mon, January 31, 2022
106. Therapeutic & Cultural Economies: Petrine McCrohan on a changing paradigm in the Kimberley
Petrine McCrohan is the founder of Bridging the Landscapes – our inner and outer landscapes. This has emerged from spending the best part of the last 20 years in the Kimberley, engaged in empowering processes and skilled therapeutic interventions. She’s been doing much of this work as a group facilitator and direct mentor to Aboriginal communities and social enterprise developers. And in the process, she’s observed and assisted a transformation in how initiatives and enterprises are being designed. The focus is increasingly on healing inter-generational trauma. And the economies that this shift is successfully restoring and creating constitute a model not just for other Aboriginal communities, but for us all. Petrine’s journey to the Kimberley stemmed from her own experiences of trauma and transformation. She left an established life in Victoria when in her 40s, pulled and guided by ‘invisible threads’ and formative encounters. And she’s come to believe and witness that healing from trauma is the window through which purposeful, healthy and prosperous lives and societies are forged. We exchange notes on a few fascinating corroborating cases and experiences too, that suggest she’s not alone. Join us at sunset beside the spectacular Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge), a 35O million year old Devonian Reef, ancient home to the Bunuba people, cornerstone to the story of Bunuba warrior Jandamarra, drawcard on the famed Gibb River Road, and an area pivotal to Petrine’s journey. And right on topic, you’ll hear how the conversation sub-consciously rolls with the shifting light and sound around us. This conversation was recorded on 6 September 2021. Title slide: Anthony James and Petrine McCrohan with the Martuwarra Fitzroy River in the background, just outside of Fitzroy Crossing, a couple of days after this conversation (pic: Olivia Cheng). See the episode website for more photos from this spectacular Country. Music: The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Flamenco Rhythm, by Sunsearcher ( sourced from the Free Music Archive ). Find more: Petrine’s LinkedIn profile. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. <ul
S6 E105 · Mon, January 24, 2022
105. The First State to End Native Forest Logging, with Campaign Director Jess Beckerling
Jess Beckerling is Campaign Director of the West Australian Forest Alliance (WAFA), and much more besides. She’s a highly respected figure here in the southern reaches of Western Australia, by both those who would traditionally have prioritised conservation, and those who might not have. I spoke with Jess back in July last year for the Clean State podcast, a spin-off series from The RegenNarration specific to WA. At the time, WAFA was seizing the opportunity it sensed to finally end native forest logging in WA. With the comprehensive and poetically conceived Forests for Life Plan in hand, WAFA has been showing how we can stop bleeding finances, forests, farmlands and communities, and back in the growing suite of ecologically and economically beneficial industries. Come September, the WA government agreed – and in an Australian first announced the end of native forest logging in this state. So we kick off the podcast for the new year with this massive story. You’ll hear the last 15 minutes or so of my conversation with Jess, which closes with a few bonus minutes that just couldn’t fit in Clean State’s cut. Then I’ve patched in Jess’s media statement from Parliament House on the dramatic day of the government’s announcement (a few minutes long), along with some of her comments to the journo’s present. More on Jess: Jess lives in the forests on the South Coast of WA. She first became involved in forest conservation in 1997 when she joined the Giblett forest blockade near Pemberton. Jess lived in forest blockade camps for 3 years, winning the State Government's Youth Leadership Award in recognition of her commitment to the maintenance of nonviolence in the camps. Jess has been the convener of WAFA since 2011 and was awarded the Conservation Council's Bessie Rischbieth award in 2015. Late last year, she was recognised as the Environmentalist of the Year by the Bob Brown Foundation. This conversation was recorded online with Jess speaking from her office in the south coast town of Denmark on 13 July 2021 (Australian time). The media statement was recorded outside Parliament House in Perth by Clean State WA on 8 September 2021. Title slide: Jess Beckerling (supplied). Music: A Forests Dream, by Cloudjumper, sourced from the Free Music Archive . Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.</p
S5 E104 · Mon, December 20, 2021
104. 2021 RegenNarration Soundtrack: Highlights from our guests this year
This is our customary sign-off episode for the year – a package of highlights from our brilliant array of guests throughout 2021, accompanied by some of the music and sounds of Country you heard along the way. Here's the 'track list': To the podcast theme song The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra - Damon Gameau (ep 77), Jeff Pow & Michelle McManus (ep 78) To the sounds of Country at one of the magnificent restoration sites at Twin Creeks - Keith Bradby (ep 79) To River Feeling by Kalaji - Nicol Ragland (ep 80), Tim Winton (ep 81), Geoff Bastyan (ep 82), Peter Veth (ep 83) & Anne Poelina (ep 84) To Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae - Cathy McGowan (ep 85), Stephen Jenkinson (ep 86), Willem Ferwerda (ep 87), Gaala Watson & Rob Pekin (ep 88), Courtney Young & Ian Congdon (ep 89), Robert Kennedy, Kate Raworth & Marieke van Doorninck (ep 90) Lynne Kelly (ep 92) To Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp - Margo Neale (ep 93), Mark Jones (ep 94), Leon Khan & Owen James (ep 95), Paul Hawken (ep 96) We Can Change the World (The Regeneration Song) by AY Young and Jonathan Russell of The Head & The Heart To Liyan by Kalaji – Alessandro Pelizzon (ep 97) & Anne Poelina (ep 98) To Jeremiah Johnson – Katherine Trebeck & Mike Salvaris (ep 99), Chris Henggeler (ep 100), Eva Orner (ep 101) To the sounds of Nyul Nyul Country - Bruno Dann & partner Marion (ep 102) To Beethoven’s Piano Sonata no.15 in D major op.28 "Pastoral" - I. Allegro, by Karine Gilanyan (sourced from the Free Music Archive) - Charles Massy (ep 103) Fate, in full, by Stephen Jenkinson (from ep 86) Closing the year with the close of our theme song, The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Title slide: Regenerating creeks, wetlands and groundcover at Kachana Station in the Kimberley (pic: Anthony James). With thanks to all the wonderful musicians who generously granted permission for their music to be heard here. Find more: To access the full catalogue of episodes, head to our website or wherever you get your podcasts. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive b
S5 E103 · Sun, December 12, 2021
103. The Last Dragon: Charles Massy on Regeneration, the ‘electronic curtain’ & his new book
Welcome to the final conversation for 2021, featuring globally renowned doyen of regenerative agriculture, Charles Massy. This best-selling author of Call of the Reed Warbler has recently written for Paul Hawken’s NYT best-seller Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation. And perhaps less predictably, he’s also been busy writing a new kids’ book. It’s called The Last Dragon. It’s a beautiful work of art, thanks to illustrator Mandy Foot, and the imagery Charlie conjures of an elusive fellow dweller in the land he calls home. And there’s an even bigger story behind how this came to be his next volume, and why we might see more like it. I also introduce this episode with some great news on two key stories we’ve been following on the podcast – the donkeys at Kachana Station, and efforts to protect Ningaloo Reef and Exmouth Gulf. And I close with some last words from me for 2021. This episode marks what would have been the 78th birthday of the bloke who introduced me to systems thinking and living 21 years ago, the late Professor Frank Fisher. This Aussie legend became a treasured mentor of mine, and a great mate. Last year, we marked the occasion with Allan Savory on the podcast. The year before, another globally influential systems thinker in Hazel Henderson. Continuing the tradition, I’m very happy to be introducing Charlie this year. This conversation was recorded across some very remote Country (mostly without a hitch!) on 19 November 2021 at 6DBY Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation in WA, with Charlie at home at Severn Park in NSW. Title slide: The Last Dragon himself, illustrated by Mandy Foot (from the book). Music: The System, by The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tune accompanying the introduction is by Jeremiah Johnson. Beethoven’s Piano Sonata no.15 in D major op.28 "Pastoral" - I. Allegro, by Karine Gilanyan (sourced from the Free Music Archive). Find more: The book, The Last Dragon . My conversation with Charlie at Severn Park in late 2018. There’s also a live conversation event featuring Char Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Wed, December 08, 2021
102 Part 2 Excerpt. The Original Circular Economy, with Bruno & Marion
This is an excerpt from episode 102 (part 2) featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with Nyul Nyul Traditional Custodian, Bruno Dann, and partner Marion, at Twin Lakes Cultural Park. These 20 minutes are a real highlight. We pick up the conversation with evidence of the original circular economy, when being shown a fig leaf that feels like sandpaper. We go on to talk about the best of the regenerative outcomes they’ve observed at Twin Lakes, the famed international companies they’ve turned down, and the turning point for them almost a decade ago. Then it’s the profound experience of arriving at the old ceremonial grounds. Title slide: Bruno, Anthony and Marion walking out through regenerated Country to the old ceremonial grounds (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: The rest of our conversation starting with Part 1, ‘Twin Lakes Cultural Park: A return to Country, restoration & incredible bush products success’. The rest of this 2nd & final part of episode 102, ‘People Want the Story: Heading out to the ceremonial grounds’. And tune into the Extra with Marion on her remarkable journey from Sydney to the Kimberley. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E102 · Sun, December 05, 2021
102 Part 2. People Want the Story: Heading out to the Ceremonial Grounds, with Bruno & Marion
Welcome to part 2 of episode 102 as we join Nyul Nyul Traditional Custodian Bruno Dann, and partner Marion, on a walk out to the old people’s camping, hunting and ceremonial grounds. To even write these words, I feel a wave rise within me. The conversations spring from the old trails we tread, connecting back in with some of the threads from part 1, and charting the journey of how Twin Lakes has emerged as such a compelling story. I’ve experimented a bit with this episode too. I’ve recorded Bruno and Marion as they were situated physically around me. This means you’ll hear Bruno in your right ear, and Marion in your left. See how it feels. So join us as we gather back at camp at Twin Lakes Cultural Park, with Bruno and Marion. For a story that further highlights the enormous possibilities for regenerative economies and cultures right across the Kimberley and beyond. Part 2 of this episode was recorded on-location at Twin Lakes Cultural Park, on Nyul Nyul Country, on the Dampier Peninsula in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia, on 6 August 2021. Title slide: Anthony and Bruno by the old ceremonial grounds at Twin Lakes Cultural Park (pic: Olivia Cheng). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: If you’ve come here first, tune into part 1 of this episode: ‘Twin Lakes Cultural Park: A return to Country, restoration and incredible bush products success’. You’ll find a link out to Twin Lakes Cultural Park in the show notes there too. And an extensive selection of photos. Have a listen to the special Extra with Marion too – hers is a brilliant story in its own right. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack .
Bonus · Wed, December 01, 2021
102 Extra. Marion’s Unlikely Journey from Sydney to the Kimberley: An impromptu chat by the fire
This extra to episode 102 features an impromptu conversation I had with Marion by the fire on our first night there, before the morning walks. It wasn’t intended to be recorded - I’d just been recording some ambient sounds when we got talking. We chat about Marion’s life, and some of her perspective on this incredible story that none of them saw coming – though an elder had prophesised it. Marion’s is a remarkable story in itself, with generations of her family steeped in achievement and adventure, and her journey to this place charted through a series of extraordinary and unlikely encounters. I’m very happy she gave me permission to share this with you. So join us by the camp fire at Twin Lakes. Note: because this wasn't intended to be recorded, there is some swearing on occasion - just in case you'd rather not have little people hear that. And among the other voices you might hear in the background, Marion’s sister Fiona chimes in when talking of their childhood. Title slide: Marion at Twin Lakes Cultural Park (pic: Anthony James). Find more: You can hear more of Marion in conversation, with Bruno and I, starting with Part 1 of the main episode: ‘Twin Lakes Cultural Park: A return to Country, restoration & incredible bush products success’. You’ll find a link out to Twin Lakes in the show notes there too. And a selection of photos. And stay tuned for part 2 of this episode out next week, featuring an incredibly moving visit to the old hunting and ceremonial grounds, still so clearly etched into the land and spirit of this place. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop
S5 E102 · Mon, November 29, 2021
102. Twin Lakes Cultural Park: A return to Country, restoration & incredible bush products success
Bruno Dann is a Traditional Custodian of Nyul Nyul Country, and together with partner Marion, they’ve spent a little over 20 years creating the incredible success story that is Twin Lakes Cultural Park. Lying to the north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsula in far north Western Australia, Twin Lakes had been stripped of its First Peoples, and badly neglected. But Bruno still found a way to learn from the old people on this Country when he was a boy, and later returned as an older man. While facing the heartbreak of loss here, he set about regenerating his Country, its culture, and abundant wild harvest. Together with Marion, and in the face of all kinds of challenges, they’ve forged a successful business selling a growing range of bush products, and employing hundreds of people. And all through a series of unexpected connections with people and companies they regard more as family – doing business in a way where business doesn’t quite feel like the right word. Bruno and Marion haven’t been on a podcast before. So what a privilege this was. Essentially, the three of us just put microphones on while we walked Country on two consecutive mornings. What emerged on both mornings was so distinct, rare and profound, I had to share both with you. So this episode will come to you in two parts. What you’ll hear today is our conversation on the first morning, as this cherished elder guides us through once again thriving Country. It’s an enthralling tour of land, sea, plants, animals, fire, business, politics, life stories and spirit. So join us on Country for more of a sense of what’s at stake here right now, what’s working so well, and how we can back and explore more opportunities like this together – especially in a fraught native products space where new ways are sorely needed. Note: the Jock they refer to is of Master Chef fame. And while the wind plays a little havoc at times, and Bruno was suffering a bit of a cough, I don't think you'll find those things diminish the experience of this one. More on Bruno: he is also an Indigenous Artist, Indigenous Landcare and Culture Specialist and the first Chairperson of Manowan Aboriginal Corporation. This episode was recorded at Twin Lakes Cultural Park on Nyul Nyul Country, on the Dampier Peninsula in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia, on 5 August 2021. With thanks to filmmaker & podcast subscriber Todd Delfs for introducing us to Bruno & Marion. Title slide: Marion, Anthony & Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S5 E101 · Mon, November 15, 2021
101. Burning: On the new film, with Academy & Emmy Award winning filmmaker Eva Orner
Eva Orner is an Academy and Emmy award winning filmmaker. While she lives in the US these days, she’s from Australia, and was here when this country burned so horrifically in the bushfires of 2019 and 2020. Like a lot of us, Eva was struck not just by the fires, but by the defensive political intransigence that persists to this day. So she joined forces with a team that includes the production company of fellow countrywoman Cate Blanchett, to produce and direct the new documentary film Burning. It recently premiered in Toronto, Europe, COP26 and Sydney, where it picked up the Sustainable Future Award. The Guardian describes it as: ‘one of those rare documentaries that boils your blood and rattles your bones, leaving viewers longing for and (hopefully) demanding political change…. it is the documentary Australia and – I think it is fair to say – the entire world deserves…’ To tell you the truth, I’m often wary of watching films like this. I partly feel like I don’t need to rub my nose in the disasters, given I spend my days immersed in all this. But I found it a brilliant film. Unsurprisingly, I guess. Eva is a master of her craft. But especially for how it emerges from the stories of those involved, to a deepening sense of the humanity and care most people share for each other and their places, and the sheer guts and courage that can inspire us to change our hopelessly detached political culture and related trajectory. I found where we end up here to be particularly powerful and instructive, courtesy of Bruce Pascoe’s place in the film, and its multiple connections to the previous episode with Chris Henggeler. On how we’re all challenged to learn anew now, in a time of degraded landscape and climate, including how to holistically manage burning. The film blurb reads: Burning takes an unflinching look at Australia’s catastrophic ‘Black Summer’ bushfires, as well as government inaction on climate change and media perceptions, posing questions about how we move forward as a nation to ensure this piece of history is never repeated. This episode was recorded at the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation, with Eva in South Dakota shooting her next film, on 3 November 2021 (Australian time). Title slide: Eva Orner on set (pic: supplied). You'll see a selection of other photos from the film and its making on the episode website (all pics supplied). Music: The System, by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Thu, November 11, 2021
100 Excerpt. For young people who would focus on wealth building rather than cash accumulation
This is an excerpt from episode 100 (part 2) featuring the last 15 minutes or so of my conversation with pioneering regenerative pastoralist, Chris Henggeler, on-location at Kachana Station. In some senses, our entire visit to Kachana is distilled into this excerpt. We pick up our conversation where I ask Chris what he needs. A nice initial exchange gives way to some profoundly moving reflections on the value of a life. And that sets up the last minutes of our time together, talking about the temporary stay-of-execution on the donkeys, and how excited he remains about the opportunities for the next generations of land doctors. Title slide: the incredible before and after photographs of the homestead and surrounds at Kachana Station (pic: from a booklet compiled by the family when Allan Savory visited). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation starting with the main episode, ‘Wanted Land Doctors: Rehydrating landscapes, reversing desertification and rebuilding the wealth of country’. You can follow the rest of our time together on this visit with the special Extra out to where the donkeys do their work. And with the rest of the second and final part of episode 100. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support
S5 E100 · Mon, November 08, 2021
100 Part 2. The Value of Life: A personal reflection on regeneration, viability, wealth & change
Today’s final stanza from our visit to Kachana Station features a very personal conversation with the pioneering regenerative pastoralist, Chris Henggeler. It felt akin to a kind of life statement in the end. It wasn’t scripted that way, of course. It just seemed to be the culmination of having spent ten rich days together, which also included the looming deadline to shoot the donkeys, Chris’s birthday, and the birth of his third grandchild Ava. We end up talking about things like the viability of regeneration, true wealth, and changing tack. And as Chris looks to hand over the reins, he invites the next generations of land doctors to realise the ultimate potential of the restoration of life’s self-organising processes everywhere. Join us, as we sit down at the homestead and press record on our last conversation from this visit - a portrait of abundance against a profile of extinction. Dedicated to Ava, the third grandchild of Chris and Jacqueline, who was born while we were at Kachana. Title slide: Chris Henggeler, as a younger bloke (supplied). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear more of Chris and I in conversation in the main episode: ‘Wanted Land Doctors: Re-hydrating landscapes, reversing desertification & rebuilding wealth’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes there too (including to a special Extra out where the donkeys do their work). And an extensive selection of photos. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. <br/
Bonus · Thu, November 04, 2021
100 Extra. Crunch Time for this Great Regen Story: Heading out to where the donkeys do their work
The day after our extended conversation in the gorge, featured in the main episode, we headed out to where the donkeys do their work. As mentioned in that main episode, it’s crunch time in many ways for this great story of regeneration. And by extension, for all of us, as a shoot order hangs over the donkeys’ heads. So we head out to take a closer look for ourselves at how the Henggelers are managing these wild donkeys for regeneration. It’s a fascinating deep dive into how this works, with some moving exchanges on the sentience of these creatures, and the possibilities available to us if we can find a way to work differently with them. And with each other. Let’s jump in the beat up old ute, and head over to the upper ranges for a walk. Dedicated to Ava, Chris and Jacqueline’s third grandchild, who was born on the morning of this conversation. Title slide: Chris Henggeler and Anthony James on an upper range where the donkeys do their work (pic: Olivia Cheng). Find more: You can hear more of Chris and I in conversation, from the days prior to this journey to the donkeys, in the main episode: ‘Wanted Land Doctors: Re-hydrating landscapes, reversing desertification & rebuilding wealth’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes there too. And an extensive selection of photos (I’ve added a few more today too, from where we were talking in this Extra). You can also hear the 2nd and final part to this series at Kachana, out next week. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for
S5 E100 · Mon, November 01, 2021
100. Wanted Land Doctors: Rehydrating landscapes, reversing desertification & rebuilding wealth
Tens of millions of ‘pests’ degrade lands and waters in Australia alone – pigs, goats, camels, buffalos, donkeys. Cruel, wasteful, expensive, mostly futile and often counter-productive culling programs are no solution. But what if it didn’t have to be this way? What if some of those large wild herbivores could be harnessed towards regeneration? This is the story of a family that has regenerated an incredible patch of country, and for 20 years that has incorporated and relied on wild donkeys. The bond these animals share with this Station family is clear. But the state department recently ordered the family to gun them down. It’s a painful flashpoint. One of the great stories of regeneration is on the line, and by extension, the potential for next generations to build on it, further restoring landscapes at scale for all our benefit. Chris Henggeler and his family manage Kachana Station in a remote pocket of the East Kimberley, only accessible by foot or air. They took responsibility for this desertified and abandoned country, and have achieved so much. Yet with still vast lands desertifying around them, and so much opportunity to build on models like Kachana, Chris gave a presentation earlier this year called ‘Wanted Land Doctors’. It was a powerful invitation for the next generations to join the fray, and how rest of us can help them do it. The model areas at Kachana feel like an oasis. But imagine this being the norm. As Judith Schwartz, renowned author of The Reindeer Chronicles, says: we could be a world leader off the back of developments like this. My family spent a couple of days here back in 2018, and felt transformed. We spent ten days this time, to delve more deeply and see for myself whether the donkey shoot order is a necessary evil, or as Chris argues, an enormous error in regeneration, at a time when we can least afford it. We start here heading out in the old Cessna light plane, before a short evening stroll on arrival &, come morning, an extended walk in the gorge behind the homestead. This episode was recorded at Kachana Station in the East Kimberley, in the far north east of Western Australia, throughout the week of 13 September 2021. Title slide: Chris Henggeler on our gorge walk at Kachana Station (pic: Anthony James). See more photos on the episode web page. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tun Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S5 E99 · Mon, October 25, 2021
99. Towards Economies for People & Planet, with Dr Katherine Trebeck & Mike Salvaris
Momentum continues to build in our efforts to gear economies towards shared quality of life, rather than sheer quantity of stuff. With COP 26 starting in Glasgow next week, I reached out to Dr Katherine Trebeck for a sense of how it feels on the ground there, along with how the event might leverage more of that broader momentum. That’s our take-off point for looking at some of the significant shifts happening around the world in this space. And we’re joined again by Mike Salvaris, with a major update on the West Australian Development Index that featured in his Ministerial presentation in episode 55. Dr Katherine Trebeck is a Senior Strategic Advisor for the Wellbeing Economy Alliance (or WEAll) – a global collaboration she co-founded in 2018, the same year she co-founded WEAll Scotland. She has also instigated the group of Wellbeing Economy Governments, previously developed Oxfam’s Humankind Index, and led Oxfam’s work downscaling Kate Raworth’s ‘doughnut economics’ for various countries. Katherine’s book The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a Grown-Up Economy (co-authored with Jeremy Williams) was published in early 2019. The last time we spoke on this podcast was at one of the Australian events launching that book. And one of our guests that night was Mike Salvaris, a global leader in the development of wellbeing measures, and Director of the Australian National Development Index. So what’s happened in the two years since that event in the development of ‘wellbeing economies’, and this prospective pilot Development Index in WA? This conversation was recorded online at the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation on Nyikina Country in the West Kimberley, with Katherine at home in Glasgow and Mike in Melbourne, 12 October 2021. Title slide: Katherine and Mike against a Scottish backdrop (pics of Katherine and Scotland are from Katherine's website, and the one of Mike is from our Zoom conversation). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Wellbeing Economy Alliance. Australian National Development Index (ANDI). Katherine’s website. You can hear my first conversation with Katherine in episode 29 , and on stage with Mike for Katherine’s book launch Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what
S5 E98 · Thu, October 21, 2021
98. Even Today There is an Ancient Law for the River, a live conversation with Dr Anne Poelina
This is a very special episode, a live conversation event with Nyikina Warrwa elder, Dr Anne Poelina. We last spoke on the podcast for episode 84 back in May, on the launch of Regenerative Songlines Australia, and resolved to catch up on her Country here in the Kimberley later in the year. We ended up doing that at this live event I was honoured to host the Q&A for - a screening of the film we also talked about in May, The Serpent’s Tale. The film features the story of the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, its ancient Country, its First Peoples, its First Law, its need for recognition and protection, and its abundant opportunities for new economies, and as Anne puts it, the overarching need for sustainable lifeways on Country for Aboriginal people. I wasn’t sure if this would turn into a podcast episode. But when the previous episode with Alessandro Pelizzon revealed such profound and significant global implications stemming from Anne’s work and what’s happening here, it had to be. All the more, given the quality and consequence of the dialogue that night. Given, then, that this is in addition to the usual weekly releases, I initially thought I’d produce a shorter summary version of the conversation. I did edit it down a little, partly due to sound issues, but the conversation gets more profound as it goes, and it’s so connected and applicable to dialogue happening right around this country and elsewhere. We’re so in this together. More on Anne: Anne is Chair of the esteemed Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council, an international award winner, has multiple postgraduate degrees, and over 30 years’ experience in Indigenous health, education, language and community development. This episode was recorded live at the Sporties in Derby, on Nyikina Country, 9 October 2021. With thanks to the Red Shed Derby Women’s Collective, Harry Jakamarra & 6DBY Larrkardi Radio. CORRECTION: Where Anne talks about the sacred site on her country as being 100 million years old, she later corrected this – it’s a ridge that is 20 million years old, on bedrock that is 200 million years old. Title slide: Dr Anne Poelina, live on the night (pic: Chris Lean). See more photos on the episode website. Music: River Feeling, at the top, & Liyan at the end, both by Anne’s son Mark Coles-Smith, composing as Kalaji (joined in Liyan by Ursula Yovich). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoi
S5 E97 · Mon, October 18, 2021
97. The Rapid Rise of Earth Laws & Breakthrough in First Law Recognition, with Alessandro Pelizzon
There has been a rush this year of landmark court decisions on climate change, ruling on duties of care, emissions reductions, and other actions for corporations and governments, in Australia and around the world. It’s another sign this generation is changing things, and fast. And some of the broader change afoot is even more powerful than what’s hitting the headlines. This is one of those rapid systemic developments we can easily take for granted. In just over a decade we have witnessed the incredible rise in ecological jurisprudence and the rights of nature. The notion of ecocide is now being officially tabled, there are a number of famous instances of rivers being granted legal rights, and all this is just the tip of the iceberg. In just twelve years it’s gone from whether this could happen, to how it can best happen. And just a few years ago, out of a conversation between today’s guest and Nyikina elder Dr Anne Poelina, a concept was landed upon that just might unlock the door to colonial law finally recognising First Law. And more profoundly still, in a way that involves us all in understanding the depths of what that means, the enormous gifts it offers, and how it might just end up transforming everything. Dr Alessandro Pelizzon is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Law and Justice at Southern Cross University. He is one of the founding members of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature and the Australian Earth Laws Alliance, he has been an expert member of the UN Harmony with Nature programme, and supported the drafting of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Geneva. Alessandro has been exploring the emerging phenomenon of rights of nature, Wild Law and Earth Jurisprudence since its inception. This conversation was recorded on 2 September 2021, with thanks to the team at the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation for the use of their studio. Title slide: Alessandro Pelizzon (supplied). Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tune accompanying the introduction is by Jeremiah Johnson. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more : On Dr Alessandro Pelizzon . For an hilarious and poignant connection with this episode, listen back from about the 28-minute mark of my conversation with Margo Neale in Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Do
Bonus · Mon, October 11, 2021
96 Extra. A Deep Dive into Regeneration: Part 2 of my conversation with global visionary Paul Hawken
This is a very special extra to episode 96 with Paul Hawken, the globally renowned environmentalist, author, entrepreneur and activist. I say extra, but it’s really a second part, a whole conversation in its own right. Some of the story behind the story. This is essentially the middle hour and a bit of our conversation, where we deep-dove into some of the keystone themes, if you like, of Regeneration - the themes that enable all the other themes. Or disable them, if absent or mis-placed. Some of this is based on what’s in the book, some on what I noted isn’t in it. We pick up with a profound story Paul tells of an encounter he had with a Yupik woman from the Bering Strait region. This stemmed from where we spoke in the main episode of what gripped each of us most in Regeneration. We go on to delve into those keystone themes (mapped out below), before closing with some beautiful and revealing personal musings. Firstly, on how Paul approaches his days with Regeneration in mind. And then he offers us a rare glimpse ahead to his next book. In case you want to hit up particular parts of our conversation, here’s a mapping of it (though the inter-weaving of each topic comes from listening in sequence): Title slide: from the extraordinary Solutions page on the Regeneration website. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode (along with access to links in the show notes), ‘Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast wit
Bonus · Thu, October 07, 2021
96 Excerpt. Nobody wakes up in the morning & says I can’t wait to mitigate
This is an excerpt from episode 96 featuring the last 25 minutes or so of my conversation with the legendary environmentalist, activist, entrepreneur and author, Paul Hawken, plus a brilliant preview performance of The Regeneration Song! This really felt like a crescendo of sorts, as we neared the end of a conversation that delved deep over a few hours. The main episode that went out Monday is an edited version. The middle hour or so will be out next, as a special Extra this Monday. For now, if you want to start with a snapshot, or would just like to hear the end again (like I did), this excerpt is for you. We pick up our conversation where Paul comments on stories being the only thing that change us. We go on to talk about the incredible online tools that have launched with the book, some brilliant stories where politics is being transformed, and what that and other stories in Regeneration tell us about how big change happens via the small. We all count in this. We go out with why Paul feels optimistic about what could be a ‘shocking’ few years ahead. Title slide: Paul Hawken (supplied). Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Preview Performance of We Can Change the World (The Regeneration Song), by AY Young & Jonathan Russell of The Head & The Heart. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode (with a series of links in the show notes), ‘Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends.
S5 E96 · Mon, October 04, 2021
96. Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation, with global visionary Paul Hawken
This feels like a pivotal moment. Four years ago, legendary environmentalist, activist, entrepreneur and author, Paul Hawken, compiled the best-selling book Drawdown, a comprehensive plan for reversing global warming. That book changed the world in many ways. And his new one, the sequel to Drawdown, is creating another big wave. It’s called Regeneration: Ending the climate crisis in one generation, and just one week out, it’s already #6 in the New York Times best-seller list. Regeneration is billed as the first book to describe the burgeoning regeneration movement spreading rapidly around the world. And like Drawdown, it doesn’t end at the book. The not-for-profit Regeneration organisation is developing an extraordinary set of online guides and resources, teaching materials and media productions to assist our efforts, whoever and wherever we are. If Drawdown was what-could-be-done, Regeneration is how-to-get-it-done. And that’s in a context where we’re still going backwards in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, our health, and other critical crises. And, most people in the world remain disengaged. So how do we change this? How do we, as this one generation, engage the majority of humanity and fundamentally shift our collective course? More on Drawdown: Drawdown was a NYT bestseller, is published in 14 languages, has been used by heads of state, is part of the curriculum on every grade level from 4th grade to MIT graduate school, and is placed in a New Zealand hotel chain alongside the Gideon Bible. Drawdown named the goal. Before the book was published, the goal and word were not mentioned in climate literature. The term drawdown is now in generic use, employed and referred to thousands of times a day, and the book’s conclusions became the “bible” for over a trillion dollars of funds managed by numerous financial institutions. This conversation was recorded online with Anthony in the Kimberley and Paul at home in California on 30 September 2021 (Australian time), with thanks to the Derby Media Aboriginal Corporation. Title slide: Regeneration book cover. Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Tune with the intro is by Jeremiah Johnson. We Can Change the World (The Regeneration Song), by AY Young & Jonathan Russell of The Head & The Heart. Find more : A specia Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S5 E95 · Mon, September 27, 2021
95. Deadly Derby Radio: Sparking voice, connection & women’s footy leagues, with Leon & OJ
Community-owned media is a vital part of regeneration, and this is all the more true for First Nations communities. It’s a well-documented leverage point for attaining massive benefits for local and regional communities - which of course, ultimately, means all of us. The award-winning Larrkardi Radio in Derby, far north Western Australia, is a brilliant and resurgent case-in-point. With a 5-pronged boab out front, and a local, regional, national and now even global reach growing within. Leon, Owen, Bekah, Sunimah and the crew are an inspiration. They’re engaging diverse communities, building understanding and opportunity, recording local artists and ancient Songlines, generating their own stories and systems, and amplifying some of the game-changing stuff happening here. Whether it’s with health outcomes, the vital success of the youth centre, or sparking the local women’s footy league that has since spread like wildfire across the Kimberley (and will feature on an ABC documentary soon). And if you’re wondering how much that matters, listen in. As with so much we hear on this podcast, the team at Larrkardi are finding that what they do is bubbling up everywhere. A First Nations media movement gathers pace, helping to bring people alive, and communities and a country together. Join us in the new podcast room at 6DBY Larrkardi Radio - your deadly Derby Station. Leon Khan is the trail blazing Indigenous health worker and coach of the Derby Tigers footy club, recruited to manage the station and unexpectedly finding a calling. And Owen Burns (or OJ) is the young guy who hated moving to Derby as a kid, but found his home there as a broadcaster from the age of 11. This conversation was recorded at the station on 24 August 2021. Title slide: Larrkardi Radio in Derby (pic: Anthony James). See the episode web page for more photos. Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tune accompanying the introduction is by Jeremiah Johnson. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more : Stream 6DBY Larrkardi Radio from Derby, Western Australia Follow The Conversation podcast , produced at 6DBY, available on Spotify They’ve also just launched their Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
Bonus · Thu, September 23, 2021
94 Excerpt. We’ve transformed culture before, can we do it again?
This is an excerpt from episode 94 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with award-winning Australian film-maker, Mark Jones. We pick up our conversation with perhaps the biggest question I had for Mark: on the back of his charting stories of cultural transformation and survival through enormous climactic and other shifts, can we do it again? And of course, how? The answer, inevitably, is far from a straight line, but it is instructive. And forms the backbone of his epic film currently in production, Stories in Stone. Title slide: Roebuck Bay in Broome (pic: Anthony James). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode 94 , ‘Stories in Stone: What the ancients are telling us, with award-winning film-maker Mark Jones’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E94 · Mon, September 20, 2021
94. Stories in Stone: What the ancients are telling us, with award-winning film-maker Mark Jones
Mark Jones is a crocodile handling, campaign building, award-winning Australian film-maker. He has been living and working extensively in the Kimberley for nearly 30 years, since unexpectedly becoming a novice camera operator with revered adventure film maker Malcolm Douglas. Mark develops stories and films with deep underlying messages that reflect this very special part of the world, and its increasingly important part in where we go from here as a society and civilisation. And all that is coming out in both his films and activism to profound effect. Mark has helped lead one of the most formative and successful campaigns in Australian history. And he’s collaborated with some of the greats in Australian film and television, also producing for some of the larger international TV broadcasters including the BBC, and NHK in Japan. The WA State Library will archive his collection in 2022. Most recently, Mark directed The Serpent’s Tale, the spectacular half-hour film produced in collaboration with the Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council, that Anne Poelina and I talked about in episode 84. Now he’s onto making the epic and vital Stories in Stone, collaborating with other previous guests on this podcast like Lynne Kelly (ep 92) and Albert Wiggan (ep 34). It’s the culmination of a life’s work to date, on what science and traditional knowledge are showing us, about the messages left by our ancient ancestors for future generations. This is the first in a series of episodes on-location in the Kimberley – a region often described as one of the last great remaining wildernesses left on the planet. To the Original people, as the Stories in Stone blurb puts it, it’s seen as ‘Country’, a vast Cultural landscape where story, song, geography and art meld into an epic story with no beginning… and no end. This conversation was recorded by the mud flats of Roebuck Bay in Broome, on 2 August 2021. Title slide: Mark Jones (supplied). You can see a selection of spectacular photographs by Mark on the episode website. Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The tune accompanying the introduction is by Jeremiah Johnson. Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more : Mark Jones' website The Serpent’s Tale trailer (stay tuned to the Ma Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Sun, September 12, 2021
92 & 93 Excerpt. Us mob got the stories, that museum mob got the Toyotas
This is an excerpt from episodes 92 and 93, parts 1 and 2 of Songlines: Combining the most powerful knowledge systems ever known. We pick up the conversation with Lynne Kelly, as she shares some of the incredible stories of how schools and universities have been embedding her work (think law and medicine degrees with students memorising 88 constellations!). Then she runs us through how it works, how this has transformed her understanding of Indigenous cultures and Country, and how this is just scratching the surface of Songlines, and what it could mean for all of us right now. In the back half of this excerpt, we pick up with Margo Neale sharing some of the transformative decade-long journey bringing the Songlines exhibition to life. We go on to talk about some of the nature of Songlines, where everything has a place, and why the elders are trying to help all people feel they are part of this story. As Margo puts it, no one can live anywhere if you only know your stories of the last 250 years. Title slide: cover of the pictorial companion to the exhibition, by Margo Neale. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversations in the main episodes, ‘Songlines: Combining the most powerful knowledge systems ever known’ – Part 1 and Part 2 wherever you get your podcasts (you’ll see some photos on those episode websites too). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Sun, September 05, 2021
93 Extra. The Transformation Seeps In, with Margo Neale
This extra to episode 93 features more of Margo Neale, co-curator of the extraordinary exhibition Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters, and co-author of the best-selling book Songlines: The power and the promise. Margo and I decided to keep rolling with our conversation at some length. I found it to be profound and wonderful stuff, so I wanted to share it all with you. We start here with the transformative effect the exhibition has had on her. And how it has affected the communities who led it. We go on to chat about how Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Songlines embrace technology – but don’t lose themselves in it. The tech is harnessed to rehumanise, not dehumanise. And this kicks off a whole other conversation about Songlines - involving some incredible stories of wayfinding, Tyson Yunkaporta’s railing against the myth of primitivity, and Margo’s dancing troupe of the 60s. Title slide: Artwork from the post by Margo , featuring some great photos, on how the communities were central to the success of Songlines. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the main episode with Margo, ‘Songlines: Combining the most powerful knowledge systems ever known, Part 2’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E93 · Sun, September 05, 2021
93. Songlines: Combining the most powerful knowledge systems ever known (Part 2), with Margo Neale
Like our previous guest, Lynne Kelly, in part 1 of this series on Songlines, Margo Neale is a pioneer. Margo is of Aboriginal & Irish descent, from the Kulin nation with Gumbayngirr clan connections. And she’s the lead curator of the extraordinary exhibition Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters, that has made such an incredible mark on Australia, and is about start its high-profile world tour. At the same time, the First Knowledges book series Margo is bringing together has started with an instant best-seller - Songlines: The Power & the Promise, which Margo co-wrote with Lynne. The second book in the series, on design, is out now, and the following one (by Bill Gammage and Bruce Pascoe) steps straight into the thick of what’s become known in Australia as ‘The Dark Emu debate’ (triggered by Pascoe’s book). That’s the pointy end of our reckoning with our still largely unconscious Western colonial worldview. And it’s doing it in a way that might just help us finally transcend entrenched feuds, and reveal to more of us the enormous benefits on offer in combining our respective knowledge systems - the most powerful knowledge systems ever known. This is the nub of Margo and Lynne’s pioneering work. There’s something missing in our reconciliation processes, they say, and by extension with our understanding of how to be fully human in the world, intrinsic to regenerating country as the source of all life. Margo Neale is Head of the National Museum of Australia’s Indigenous Knowledges Curatorial Centre. She is also an Adjunct Professor in the Australian National University’s Centre for Indigenous History. In addition to former fame as a touring go-go dancer! This chat was recorded at Kimberley Cottages & its Windjana Wellness Centre on 23 August 2021, with Margo at home near Braidwood NSW. Title slide: Margo Neale ( source ). Find more photos on the episode website. Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Closing tune by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more : Tune into the Extra to this episode with Margo Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them
S5 E92 · Sun, August 29, 2021
92. Songlines: Combining the most powerful knowledge systems ever known (Part 1), with Lynne Kelly
Lynne Kelly is now often referred to as The Memory Whisperer. Amidst great personal trial and self-doubt, she stumbled on a series of insights that are revolutionising Western understandings of ancient knowledge systems. And with the likewise brilliant Indigenous woman Professor Margo Neale, they are showing how the combination of Western knowledge systems with reinvigorated ancient ones, is where the deep promise lies for enabling the regeneration of life on this planet. Late Night Live is one of Australia’s longest running radio programs on the ABC. It’s hosted by an Australian legend across media, film, the arts, and now even regenerative agriculture, with his wife Patrice Newell. His name is Phil Adams. And late last year, I was gripped by an interview he conducted with Lynne and Margo on release of their book, Songlines: The Power and The Promise. That in turn, stemmed from the Indigenous-led exhibition taking the country, and soon the world, by storm – Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters. Phil said of that exhibition that he’s never seen anything of comparable quality anywhere on earth. Margo Neale was the lead curator of that exhibition, alongside the Indigenous communities involved. It was this chat with Phil Adams that also alerted me to the exhibition opening in Perth soon after. We managed to get along just before heading north, and have joined Phil’s chorus. I’ve since read the book by Margo and Lynne, and been blown away. Phil wished they’d allocated an hour to this on his program. Well, let’s enact that wish here. And then some. We’ll speak with Margo in part 2 of this Songlines series. Today, we feature my conversation with Lynne, on how her transformed life is now helping bridge non-Indigenous understanding of the most powerful knowledge system ever known. And how her personal practice of it has transformed her life – from becoming a national memory championship title holder, to learning languages at will, well into her 60s. And that’s just scratching the surface of Songlines, and what it could mean for all of us right now. This conversation was recorded online (from inside the store room of the Exmouth Yacht Club – thanks Cathy & Denise!) on 8 July 2021, with Lynne speaking from her home in Castlemaine, Victoria. Please do jump on board as a subscribing patron of the podcast, via the new Patreon page, become part of a wonderful community of supportive listeners, and help keep this podcast going! Title slide: Lynne Kelly (supplied). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoi
S5 E91 · Sun, August 22, 2021
91. A personal message to launch The RegenNarration Patreon Page
The Patreon page for The RegenNarration is now live! And from here, the podcast goes weekly, with some brewing plans that I hope you might support. It’s actually been a pretty long and deeply felt process to get to this point. So I wanted to share some of that journey with you here – some of why I’m doing this, where it’s come from, and what’s coming on next. For those who just want to cut to the chase and become one of the first subscribing patrons of The RegenNarration, you’ll find the link below. And thank you! As I mentioned last week, since starting this podcast four years ago, listenership has doubled and even tripled year on year. There are now thousands of listeners to each episode. Plus those on a couple of radio stations picking up the podcast. And with that has come the wonderful support of 20 donors – 10 of whom have committed to treasured monthly support, and a few to extremely generous gifts. Thanks to you, this podcast has been able to make it this far, and you’ve shown me that a listener-supported model for this podcast is possible. With much gratitude to those listeners who’ve been gently at me to do this, the Patreon page for The RegenNarration offers another way you can support the podcast. And a way, it seems, that many people enjoy supporting podcasts. I hope you’ll find it that way here too. My hope is that the Patreon page will offer a way for a broader base of listeners to support the podcast, at whatever level you can, to sure up its viability, enable it to keep going, and to enable more of us to connect with each other too. As for going weekly with the podcast, there are just so many terrific stories I feel like we could do with hearing more of right now. I’ve also been feeling increasingly that we still need to sway the balance out there - more in favour of the ‘news’ we really need, rather than the news we still tend to get. If that sounds like something worth backing in, please do jump on board as a subscribing patron, become part of a wonderful community of supporting listeners, and help keep the podcast going! Music : Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive
Bonus · Mon, August 16, 2021
90 Excerpt. What does it mean to be a thriving city? With Marieke van Doorninck
This is an excerpt from episode 90 featuring the Deputy Mayor of Amsterdam, Marieke van Doorninck, on how the City is working to become the world’s first ‘doughnut economy’. We pick up our conversation with 20 minutes or so to go, starting with how people are engaging with the City’s doughnut economy strategy. We go on to talk about a few ways the work is being done, including some projects and initiatives under way, or being talked about. Marieke brings depth to the notion of a circular economy – beyond just the technical changes – and talks of some of the system changes we need, and how we might achieve them. And as even the Biden administration looks into Doughnut Economics, how can we ensure it maintains its integrity and doesn’t become another target for greenwashing? Title slide: from the cover picture of City of Amsterdam documentation on their engaging with Doughnut Economics (supplied). Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘Becoming the World’s First Doughnut Economy, with Amsterdam Deputy Mayor Marieke van Doorninck’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E90 · Mon, August 09, 2021
90. Becoming the World’s First Doughnut Economy, with Amsterdam Deputy Mayor Marieke van Doorninck
Marieke van Doorninck is Deputy Mayor of the City of Amsterdam, the first city to formally adopt Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Economics as their compass for human progress. At this podcast's beginning, Kate Raworth talked with me about her best-selling book Doughnut Economics, proposing an economic model fit for the 21st century - one that meets the needs of all within the means of the planet. She calls the doughnut a playfully serious approach to framing that challenge. And it has inspired the imagination of people everywhere. Pope Francis calls Doughnut Economics “our species’ compass for the journey” to a sustainable future. A chapter of David Attenborough’s latest book is dedicated to it. And certainly, Kate Raworth’s episodes have been among this podcast’s most listened to. Due to the overwhelming response to her book, she’s created the DEAL (the Doughnut Economics Action Lab). It helps cities, communities, states, provinces, countries and institutions everywhere adopt Doughnut Economics as a reality, scaled and tailored to their circumstances. In the wake of COVID-19, Amsterdam was the first city to formally adopt the Doughnut last year. In many ways, that seems fitting too. A Time Magazine article earlier this year started with this: ‘In 1602, in a house on a narrow alley, a merchant began selling shares in the nascent Dutch East India Company. In doing so, he paved the way for the creation of the first stock exchange—and the capitalist global economy that has transformed life on earth.” It then quoted a 30 year old woman coordinating the community movement called the Amsterdam Doughnut Coalition: “Now I think we’re one of the first cities in a while to start questioning this system. Is it actually making us healthy and happy? What do we want? Is it really just economic growth?”’ This is a whole city deciding to do something different. And a government responding. This chat was recorded online with Marieke in her office on Thursday 19 July 2021. With a brief message from me on some new podcast developments. Title slide: Marieke van Doorninck (supplied). Musi c: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more : Marieke van Doorninck The City of Amsterdam’s ‘doughnut economy’ Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate dir
Bonus · Mon, August 02, 2021
88 & 89 Excerpt. It’s the most exciting thing I’ve done in a long time
This is an excerpt from episodes 88 and 89, parts 1 and 2 of A Native Grains and Native Mills Resurgence. It features around 15 minutes of each episode, patched together with Rob’s closing lines from the Extra to episode 88. So first up, you’ll hear Rob Pekin and Gaala Watson from the legendary social enterprise Food Connect. We chat about how Gaala and Rob came together here, and the connection between social enterprise and Aboriginal systems of governance. Then we go on to explore how their early experiments with a ‘custodial enterprise’ model are reaping big rewards – from a change to their leasing model, to this brilliant milling and baking initiative. In the back half of this excerpt, you’ll hear Ian Congdon and Courtney Young, the young farmers pivotal to this changing of the face of farming, and the food and economic systems generally. We talk of their vision, and their experiences of the growing demand for what they’re up to. We chat about their doubts, how incredibly this story has come together, and their reflections on where to take it from here. Title slide: hand chiselling the new locally made mill (supplied). Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversations in the main episodes, ‘A Native Grains and Native Mills Resurgence’ – Part 1 and Part 2 (you'll see some photos on those episode web pages too). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and revi
S5 E89 · Mon, July 26, 2021
89. A Native Grains & Native Mills Resurgence, Part 2: Ian & Courtney on the art of regeneration
Welcome to Part 2 of A Native Grains & Native Mills Resurgence, featuring the young farmers changing the face of farming in Australia. Ian Congdon, Courtney Young and family are farmers, mill makers, artists and business people, and they’re exploring how all this connects with culture, creativity, and the regeneration of country and community. If you haven’t yet listened to last week’s episode with Gaala Watson and Rob Pekin from Food Connect, the trailblazing social enterprise and legendary community food hub in Brisbane, no fear. You can listen in reverse order, as it were. So given you’re here, stick around for this incredible story. It's a serendipitous chain of events deep and wide across Country, that includes connections with elders, native grains off Bruce Pascoe’s farm, this podcast, and this young farming couple who wondered if they could build the first Australian mill in who knows how long, and how that might help leverage the sorts of systemic changes so many of us would like to see. Join Courtney, Ian and I, on what happened to be settlement day for their own farm, and would you believe, the day they finished their first mill! Title slide: Ian, Courtney and family (supplied). You can see some other terrific photos on the episode webpage. This conversation was recorded on Monday 28 June 2021. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more : Woodstock Flour Courtney’s website Tune into Part 1 of this series, A Native Grains and Native Mills Resurgence, featuring Gaala Watson and Rob Pekin from Food Connect You can hear my conversation with Tyson Yunkaporta, that Courtney refers to, on episode 70 And as it happens, that one was just after my conversation with MarkTaylor from Miller & Baker And finally, hats off to Andrew Heyn from New American Stonemills and Don Hearn from the Noteworthy charity, the organiser of the Angie McMahon gig at Little Pork Deli Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, July 19, 2021
88 Extra. In This Place You’ll Be Fully Human, with Rob Pekin
This is a brief extra to episode 88 with Robert Pekin, founder of the award-winning social enterprise Food Connect. It features 10 minutes where Rob and I continued on briefly after Gaala left. It's well worth the listen for some profound reflections on Rob’s part. Title slide: Robert Pekin (supplied). Music : By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Tune into the main episode, ‘A Native Grains & Native Mills Resurgence, Part 1: Gaala Watson and Rob Pekin on custodial enterprise’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E88 · Mon, July 19, 2021
88. A Native Grains & Native Mills Resurgence, Part 1: Gaala Watson & Rob Pekin on custodial enterprise
You might remember Robert Pekin (with his partner Emma-Kate Rose) from episode 28. Rob’s the founder of Food Connect, the trailblazing social enterprise and legendary community food hub in Brisbane. Since then, plenty has happened at Food Connect. The $2m equity crowd-fund – an Australian first - was successful. And Gaala Watson, a Kungalu and Birri-Gubba Woman born and raised in Brisbane, came on board as Chair of the Food Connect Foundation. That convergence of people, skills and cultures is bringing about a revolutionary addition to their set up, thanks to a serendipitous chain of events deep and wide across Country. That included connections with local elders, the native grains off Bruce Pascoe’s farm, a young farming couple in NSW who wondered if they could build the first Australian mill in who knows how long, and this podcast. Back in episode 28, Rob and Emma-Kate talked about being a ‘systems enterprise’ more than a social enterprise – aiming to change the inter-related food, farming and economic systems, along with the cultural stories underpinning how we organise those systems. Now Food Connect is starting to flip capital from an ownership to a custodial model. This lands squarely in Gaala’s wheelhouse – where social enterprise aligns with Aboriginal systems of governance. And where this particular enterprise aligns with an enduring vision stemming from her father. Title slide: Gaala Watson (off the Food Connect Foundation website) (Rob Pekin is featured in the title slide in the Extra to this episode). This conversation was recorded on Friday 25 June 2021. Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more : Tune into the 10 minute Extra to this episode , where Rob and I continue on a little after Gaala left. Food Connect Foundation Food Connect enterprise Woodstock Flour on Instagram Hear Rob and partner Emma-Kate together on episode 28 And my conversation with Mark Taylor at Miller & Baker on episode 69 Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Mon, July 12, 2021
87 Excerpt. The Momentum is Growing, with Willem Ferwerda
This is an excerpt from episode 87 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with the CEO of Commonland, Willem Ferwerda. We pick up our conversation with a question I’ve been looking forward to delving into with Willem for a while – how do we create a regenerative economy that fosters healing of country and restoration of landscapes by its very nature, in the face of cultures and systems going the other way (think shareholder value, GDP as a measure of progress, investment expectations etc.)? We go on to talk about Willem’s “big dream” and how it’s taking another significant step as part of the recently launched UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration. And we close by coming full circle to the words of Oral McGuire: “Biodiversity is the manifestation of spirit” (along with the challenge he lays down) - with some stirring words from Willem alongside his choice of music. Title slide: Willem Ferwerda, all grown up (supplied). Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘COVID & the Wolf: Willem Ferverda on making landscape restoration & Spirit the heart of economy’ . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E87 · Mon, July 05, 2021
87. COVID & the Wolf: Willem Ferwerda on making landscape restoration & Spirit the heart of economy
Willem Ferwerda has an extraordinary background as an ecologist and international policy leader. But a little over a decade ago, after backing over 1,000 conservation projects, he decided to face down the fact that they weren’t making a dent in our slide into mass extinction and ecosystem collapse. He turned towards business and economics, and has since dedicated himself to building practical bridges between ecology and economy. Since founding Commonland in 2013, his team has been applying its holistic ‘4 Returns’ framework to restoring landscapes at scale globally, across a range of ecosystems, and with brilliant success (including in my home state of Western Australia). Yet, the overall picture continues to worsen. So with 8 years of learning in hand, they’re gearing up a notch, and inviting us to join them, as a key element of the newly launched UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Willem and I first met on Ballardong country in the wheatbelt of Western Australia, at Oral McGuire’s place. It was a special few days spent with the Indigenous-led WA collaboration they’ve engaged with, that has been pivotal to Commonland’s evolution in recent years. We had a couple of open, warm and penetrating conversations about the state of things, and our respective observations about what is possible together. Willem says he’s been watching ideas and talk of natural solutions move from marginal to mainstream over 30 years - that a transformation is afoot - across business, finance and economics, and above all in people’s search for meaning, purpose and spirit. This conversation was recorded online with Willem at home in the Netherlands on Tuesday 29 June 2021. Title slide: Willem Ferwerda in the Costa Rican forest in 1992 (supplied). Find more photos from Willem on the episode website. Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more : Commonland Willem’s personal post that prompted this chat (inc. film of the wolves returning to the Netherlands ) 4 Returns Framework report Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Don
Bonus · Mon, June 28, 2021
86 Excerpt. Getting worthy of people worth coming from, with Stephen Jenkinson
This is an excerpt from episode 86 featuring the full gripping 13 minutes of Fate, a track from the new release album by Stephen Jenkinson and key collaborator Gregory Hoskins (with band). We pick up our conversation with 15 minutes or so to go, leading in to that piece of music. We talk Fate, our primordial starting point vs a nostalgia for secretly remaining in charge, and drinking daily from eye sockets. Title slide: The cover image for Fate, with Gregory Hoskins and Stephen Jenkinson (supplied). Music : Fate, by Stephen Jenkinson and Gregory Hoskins (with band). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘A Generation’s Worth: Climate strikes, making music & what now?’ Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E86 · Mon, June 21, 2021
86. A Generation’s Worth: Stephen Jenkinson on climate strikes, making music & what now?
You might remember that Stephen Jenkinson was my first guest when this podcast changed name to The RegenNarration, back in episode 35. For those who are newer to the podcast, Stephen’s a special presence in the world – a wonderful lyricist and story teller, teacher and ceremonialist, author and farmer. Our last conversation delved into his new book at the time, Come of Age: The Case for Elderhood in a Time of Trouble, in which the case is made that we must birth a new generation of elders, one poised and willing to be true stewards of the planet and its species. That episode culminated in some of his gripping music and spoken word. Today we talk more about that art form, for last year he and key collaborator Gregory Hoskins released a studio and accompanying live album – called Rough Gods and Dark Roads, respectively. They were to be toured globally. But we all know what happened then. I’ve had guests and listeners alike speak to me of their respect for Stephen, since he was first on the podcast. So when Stephen’s wife Nathalie reached out to update me on the new releases, I was keen to speak with him again. We dwell deeply in the new music this time, and particularly on one track – called Fate - that’s acutely relevant in the wake of the latest global student climate strike last month. It’s featured in its full 13 minutes at the end of this episode. More on Stephen: Stephen is the founder of the Orphan Wisdom School in Tramore, Canada and the author of four books, including Die Wise: A Manifesto for Sanity and Soul, the award-winning book about grief and dying, and the great love of life. In 2015, he created Nights of Grief & Mystery with Canadian singer-songwriter Gregory Hoskins. With a 5-piece band, they have mounted international tours and released three albums, most recently DARK ROADS and ROUGH GODS. Most recently, a four-part livestream speaking series, A Generation’s Worth, was presented in Winter 2020. A book of the same name, emerging from that series, is due out soon. Title slide: Stephen Jenkinson (supplied). See the episode web page for more photos. This conversation was recorded on Tuesday 24 May 2021 (Australian time), a few days after the most recent global student climate strike. Music : Fate, by Stephen Jenkinson and Gregory Hoskins (with band), a 13 minute track featured in full at the end of this episode. Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & S Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, June 14, 2021
85 Excerpt. It’s Just Been Made for Us, with Cathy McGowan AO
This is an excerpt from episode 85 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with Cathy McGowan. We pick things up with the passage that became the opener in the main episode. It heralds a powerful sequence from Cathy, and an insight into what’s bubbling up around the country in the lead up to the next federal election. We then go into how things worked for her, and other increasingly successful independents, on the ground – the practical realities, the value set, and the networks of support that make it all possible. We draw to a close with more of the vision, strategy and supportive infrastructure being developed, to get more community-minded independents elected. Oh, and an express request from Cathy to share this podcast. Title slide: The cover to Cathy’s book. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howel and Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Politics That Works: A proven way becoming a powerful movement’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E85 · Mon, June 07, 2021
85. Politics That Works: A proven way becoming a powerful movement, with Cathy McGowan AO
Cathy McGowan was the first female independent MP to sit on the Australian parliamentary cross bench. She was elected in 2013 to the federal seat of Indi, which had been an entrenched conservative party seat for 74 years. At the following election, in 2016, she increased her majority, despite the Liberal/National Party coalition going hard to reclaim it. When Cathy bowed out of parliament ahead of the 2019 election, Indi again made Australian political history with the election of Dr Helen Haines as its second successive independent woman MP. And it’s all been achieved on the back of a still growing community movement, now far from limited to Indi. This is one of the greatest political stories going in Australia, and arguably the world. It’s a story about how community-minded people are getting elected, getting represented, and getting the outcomes that representation can and should get. In that sense, it’s also a story about how politics in this country – and arguably further afield – can be transformed for the better. Cathy has a vision that in 10 years this transformation could realistically be achieved, starting with the next federal election. Cathy is now helping to leverage this capacity right across the country. She wrote a book last year, and the enormous reaction to it prompted the first National Convention of Community-Minded Independents earlier this year. Organisers were blown away when 300 people from more than half of Australia’s federal electorates turned up. So with no shortage of people up for this, and more supportive infrastructure developing, a proven way is becoming a powerful movement - with genuine representation, responses to climate and biodiversity challenges, wellbeing economics, reconciliation and regenerative practices on the cards. “It is past the time of sitting back, hoping that others will do something. It is time to turn up, speak up and step up. The outcomes are worth it. The nation needs it.” – Cathy McGowan. This episode was recorded online with Cathy at home on her farm in the Indigo Valley, Victoria, on Thursday 27 May 2021. Title slide: Cathy McGowan (supplied). You can see the promotional card from the National Convention that I mentioned in our conversation on the episode web page . Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell and Sunwrae. Find more: Cathy McGowan Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avo
Bonus · Thu, May 27, 2021
84 Excerpt. Is the Snake Waking? With Dr Anne Poelina
This is an excerpt from episode 84 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with Dr Anne Poelina. We pick up the conversation with Anne’s powerful articulation of a way to proceed with planning in the Kimberley, on the back of an existing federal government bioregional framework. We go on to talk more about the incredible new film The Serpent’s Tale, leading to Anne’s heart-rending plea for more of us to correspond with the West Australian government. She goes on to suggest how. And Anne's story of the blind Aboriginal elder who sang his way to Uluru – 6 times! – offers a touchstone for the profound nature of the Songlines, and of so much what we stand to gain together, by standing together now. A true circular economy, as elder Mary Graham puts it - in relationship with everything. Anne often talks about ‘waking up the snake’ – the consciousness of the people. We close with me asking her whether she thinks this is happening. Title slide: Martuwarra (pic: Mark Jones). Music : Liyan, by Anne’s son Mark Coles-Smith, composing as Kalaji (joined by Ursula Yovich). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, Regenerative Songlines: Film, First Law & the Martuwarra Fitzroy River You can see a few terrific photographs on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E84 · Mon, May 24, 2021
84. Regenerative Songlines: Film, First Law & the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, with Dr Anne Poelina
This episode departs from the usual schedule, as there’s a particularly pressing aspect to this one. Dr Anne Poelina is a Nyikina Warrwa (Indigenous Australian) woman who belongs to the Mardoowarra, the lower Fitzroy River in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. She is also Chair of the esteemed Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council. When Anne and I last spoke for the podcast, in Broome a few years ago, I said this: “If anywhere epitomizes the critical time we’re in, it’s in the spectacular cultural and natural landscapes of her homeland. Almost incredibly, there are 40,000+ fracking wells slated for this area, along with the damming of the Fitzroy River, and more ‘old-model’ industrial agriculture. Yet the next economy is also in tow here, and this is where Anne is currently focusing her extraordinary breadth of cross-cultural knowledge and experience.” Three years on and a power of work has been done. This includes the forming of Regenerative Songlines Australia. And while that ‘old industrial model’ lurks in the Kimberley, a profound new film screened last week called The Serpent’s Tale. It documents the creation of Martuwarra, the National Heritage listed Fitzroy River. And its launch draws attention to an important state government submission process on now, while invoking deeper connection with the River and Country generally. This episode was recorded on 20 May and released on 24 May 2021, the anniversary of the exploding of the Juukan Gorge last year, which destroyed a 46,000-year heritage site. A reminder that the stakes couldn’t be higher, in terms of staving off disaster, but also ushering in the emerging new story of connection and regeneration. For those less familiar with Anne, she is also an international award winner, Managing Director of Madjulla Incorporated, a qualified nurse, traditional midwife, has multiple postgraduate degrees, and over 30 years’ experience in Indigenous health, education, language and community development. Title slide: Dr Anne Poelina (supplied). You’ll find a selection of photographs from Anne on the episode web page too. Music : River Feeling, at the start of the episode, and Liyan, at the end, both by Anne’s son Mark Coles-Smith, composing as Kalaji (joined in Liyan by Ursula Yovich). Find more: Dr Anne Poelina Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining
Bonus · Thu, May 20, 2021
83 Excerpt. Changing our Psyche, with Peter Veth
This is an excerpt from episode 83 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with award-winning archaeology professor, Peter Veth. We pick it up at the tail end of Peter answering my question about how archaeology has changed to work with First Nations, not on them. We went on to chat about the global ‘blockbuster’ exhibition Songlines, currently touring, and how it’s changing the Australian (and arguably world) psyche. We then delve more into the extraordinary impacts that these emerging ‘finds’ and connections are having on people – both First Nations and the rest of us. And take a final sweeping look across country at the extraordinary living cultural heritage coming to light, and what needs to happen with it in response. We close with Peter’s reflections on the value of a life, in the context of crisis and deep time. Title slide: The dawn over Cape Range, the day after final production of this episode (pic: Anthony James). Music : The Great Unwind, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, Regenerating in Deep Time: New finds, narratives and future possibilities . You can see a few terrific early photographs of Peter among some of the First Nations communities we talked about, on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, May 17, 2021
83 Extra. How to respond in the crucible of these landscapes, with Peter Veth
This is a special extra to episode 83 with award-winning archaeologist, Peter Veth. We delve further here into what Peter believes needs to happen in the crucible of landscapes such as those in north west Australia. We talk about the place of heavy industry, cultural enterprise and interpretation, economies, education and media. With an approach that celebrates the extraordinary deep time value of these co-created landscapes and cultures. Generating a more universal view, as Peter puts it – reflecting how First Nations see things, and how many young people see things now too. Title slide: Peter Veth at Cape Range (pic: UWA). Music : The Great Unwind, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, Regenerating in Deep Time . You can see a few terrific early photographs of Peter among some of the First Nations communities we talked about, on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E83 · Mon, May 17, 2021
83. Regenerating in Deep Time: New finds, narratives & futures, with archaeologist Peter Veth
Australia’s history is being significantly rewritten - or perhaps better said, heard. There is growing widespread understanding of the sophistication, presence and wisdom of the First Australians, and not just from the game-changing works of people like Bruce Pascoe and Bill Gammage. Now that modern Australia is looking in more of the right places, with the right mind, and with the First Australians themselves, our national - and really, human - story, is changing everywhere. This is a story of successful continuous human migration, cultivation and livelihood, right across Australia, over many a changing climate and shifting sea level. And leading archaeology professor from UWA, Peter Veth, has been working with First Nations for over 40 years to help share this story. Peter has just started a new dig with First Nations folk here on the North West Cape of Australia, part of the World Heritage Ningaloo Coast. It’s expected to reveal the First Nations presence in this part of the world dates back an extraordinary 60,000 years. And when pieced together with other finds and collaborations happening across Australia and the world, it changes the way we see our country, it’s people, and the human experience generally. And that, in turn, is broadening the menu of present and future possibilities enormously, at a time when this region, its people, and the world as a whole, need it most. This conversation was recorded on the new moon of 12 May 2021. Title slide: Cape Range, on the World Heritage Ningaloo Coast (pic: UWA). You can see a few terrific early photographs of Peter among some of the First Nations communities we talked about on the episode web page . Music : By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more : Tune into the special extra with Peter. On Peter Veth. On the new Nyinggulu Archaeology Project, from ABC Pilbara, Ningaloo research to tell 60,000-year-old story as new technology uncovers deeper past. Songlines exhibition . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what y
Bonus · Mon, May 10, 2021
82 Excerpt. It Shows We Can Do It, with Geoff Bastyan
This is an excerpt from episode 82 featuring a grab of about 14 minutes or so from my conversation with Geoff Bastyan. He’s the bloke at the heart of what’s been recognised as the world’s most successful seagrass restoration. And what a story it is. With all the key ingredients. Like being told it couldn’t be done, facing a dire wipe out of the pre-existing seagrass meadows, and intuiting the surprisingly simple method that would turn it all around. And what that means for marine habitat and food, preventing coastal erosion, and for what’s come to called ‘blue carbon’, can’t be overstated. Title slide: Restoration in progress – a 1997 seagrass restoration trial, four years later in October 2001 (pic: Geoff Bastyan) ( sourced from this terrific article on it all ). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation, waterside in Albany, in the main episode, ‘The World’s Most Successful Seagrass Restoration, with humble pioneer Geoff Bastyan’ . You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E82 · Mon, May 03, 2021
82. The World’s Most Successful Seagrass Restoration, with humble pioneer Geoff Bastyan
You might remember Keith Bradby from Gondwana Link in episode 79 a few weeks ago. If you haven’t heard it yet, suffice to say here that Gondwana Link has been called “the most exciting thing happening in restoration in Australia, if not the world.” Within its 1,000 kilometre restoration zone lies the Oyster Harbour catchment. And the Harbour that does the catching has drawn renown as the site of the world’s most successful seagrass restoration. With a humble bloke by the name of Geoff Bastyan at the heart of it. Geoff is regarded as a bit of local legend around Albany, in the south of Western Australia. And a few years ago, he was duly awarded the prestigious Great Southern Development Commission medal. It was back in the 1970s that Geoff first noticed the local harbours losing their vital seagrass meadows. He self-funded a monitoring effort over the next decade, by which time almost all the seagrass was gone. The harbours were effectively desertifying, largely due to industrial and agricultural run-off. But as older industries closed, and farmers, the local catchment group, and others inland reduced agricultural run-off, Geoff was painstakingly pioneering a way to restore the seagrass - when conventional wisdom suggested it couldn’t be done. Seagrass benefits the health of marine ecosystems in so many ways, by providing marine habitat and food, preventing coastal erosion by stabilising sediments and protecting shorelines from large swells, and storing nutrients and what’s come to be called ‘blue carbon’. Geoff cites a study here that found the restored seagrass meadows of Oyster Harbour, even after a relatively short time span, store between 30 to 50 times more carbon per hectare than the Amazon rainforest. This conversation was recorded waterside in Albany, Western Australia, on 5 March 2021. Title slide: Geoff Bastyan (source from Great Southern Live at a now inactive page - https://www.greatsouthernlive.com.au/albany-wa-oyster-harbour-catchment-geoff-bastyan-sea-grass-rehabilitation ). You’ll see a few photos on the episode web page too. Find more : My conversation with Professor Gary Kendrick for the Clean State podcast ‘Blue Carbon, Conservation Economies and the Great Seagrass Restoration’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Tue, April 27, 2021
81 Excerpt. Tim Winton on Systemic Change, Ningaloo & Useless Beauty
This is an excerpt from episode 81 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with writer and Australian National Living Treasure, Tim Winton. We pick up the conversation where I wondered if Tim agreed that the grounds for positive change seemed to be getting more fertile. We go on to explore more of Tim’s personal story, source of meaning, and view on the value of art. Especially in the context of joining efforts to transition away from this ‘peculiar, savage and inhumane form of capitalism’, towards the true bottom line of the soil, air, fresh water and ocean that sustains all. Title slide: Exmouth Gulf (pic: Anthony James). Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘Leaning Towards the Light: Recovering masculinity, meaning & true power’ . You’ll find a few photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E81 · Wed, April 21, 2021
81. Leaning Towards the Light: Recovering masculinity, meaning & true power, with writer Tim Winton
I had this conversation with Tim Winton back in 2018, but it’s been front of mind for me again in recent weeks, as we enter a moment of reckoning on gender-related inequality and violence – certainly in a big way in Australia right now, and of course more broadly in the wake of the #MeToo movement, and so many others over a long period of time. It also continues to invoke a kind of personal reckoning. You’ll hear more from me on this at the start of this episode. To many of you, Tim won’t need an introduction. He is one of the world’s most brilliant, authentic and awarded writers, and is regarded as a National Living Treasure here in Australia. For those less aware of Tim, his brief publisher bio is below. Tim and I both reveal some pretty raw parts of our journeys here, in recovering a masculinity worth the term. And this framed the back half of our conversation on his ongoing efforts to help protect the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. Particularly, at this time, Exmouth Gulf – in effect, the Reef’s nursery. This episode comes to you from back on the shores of Exmouth Gulf, which looks doubly magnificent in the wake of the recent successes of the Protect Ningaloo project. But the future of this region, and so many others, is still so bound up in our culture of damaged masculinity. Our national parliament is enough to demonstrate that. But of course, it’s not just about parliament, it’s about the systems and stories across the board that have generated, perpetrated and legitimised this for too long. Back in May 2018, I wondered if Tim agreed that the grounds for positive change seemed to be getting more fertile. And here we are now, with gutsy women taking a stand everywhere, and gutsy men looking to do what’s right. In this context, at this moment, it feels like the wisdom Tim brings to the table here is worth releasing into the world again. Tim Winton has published twenty-nine books for adults and children, and his work has been translated into twenty-eight languages. Since his first novel, An Open Swimmer, won the Australian Vogel Award in 1981, he has won the Miles Franklin Award four times (for Shallows, Cloudstreet, Dirt Music and Breath) and twice been shortlisted for the Booker Prize (for The Riders and Dirt Music). He lives in Western Australia. Title slide image: Tim Winton ( source ). Music : The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Faraway Castle, by Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, April 12, 2021
80 Excerpt. Staying in the Infinite Game, with award-winning filmmaker Nicol Ragland
This is an excerpt from episode 80 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with award-winning filmmaker and photographer, Nicol Ragland. How does Bill Gates’ recent ‘intervention’ in food systems differ from what we really need? And how are some First Nations people saying ‘no thanks’ to that intervention? These questions lead our conversation through Nicol’s work with Regenerate Oklahoma, some of her transformative experiences with Indigenous peoples around the world, and what that might mean for re-conceptualising our relationship with land. She goes on to rib me a little on the topic of trust, reveals how she (almost) stood in the recent federal election, and all this culminates with an awesome exchange on the wisdom of elders. Title slide: B&W shot of the Hadza (pic: Nicol Ragland). Music : Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, Regenerative Media: What if it’s not about solving but maintaining a connection? You’ll find a selection of Nicol’s spectacular photos on that web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, April 05, 2021
80 Extra. If We Could Do This Across the Globe, with Nicol Ragland
This is a special extra to episode 80 with award-winning filmmaker, Nicol Ragland. We hear more of Nicol’s personal journey from childhood and artist, through to formative experiences with Indigenous cultures around the world. We explore this in parallel to the growing movement in solutions journalism and regenerative media, and where it all could take us. Particularly if married with the sort of education model she’s witnessed right here in Australia, with Terry McCosker and his team at RCS. Title slide: In Australia with RCS Australia (pic: Nicol Ragland). Music : The Great Unwind, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘Regenerative Media: What if it’s not about solving but maintaining a connection?’ You’ll find a selection of Nicol’s spectacular photos on that episode web page too. And if you want to hear the episode with Terry McCosker, you can find it here . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E80 · Mon, April 05, 2021
80. Regenerative Media: What if it’s not about solving but connection? With filmmaker Nicol Ragland
Nicol Ragland is an award-winning film maker and photographer from the US. I first came across Nicol when she directed the spectacular short film, Farmer’s Footprint, featuring Dr Zach Bush and a group of regenerative farmers including Gabe Brown. It echoed so many of the stories you hear on this podcast, and elsewhere, of both the litany of issues in the wake of ‘big agriculture’ and its related systems, and the often-surprising pace of recovery among those communities able to step out from under that boot heel. Nicol might be thought of as part of a growing movement of solutions journalism or regenerative media. But she still thinks too few producers understand the influence of propaganda and well financed algorithms. And what we can do about it. Nicol was born and raised in Oklahoma and Colorado, but couldn’t wait to get out of there. After eighteen years in Los Angeles, though, she recently circled back to her “red dirt roots”. She wrote a blog about why, talking of the power of reconnection with country, health and communities. And she lamented that so much of our deepening political divides are between rural and urban folk, concluding with the question: “What if it’s not about solving but about maintaining a connection?” This conversation was recorded on the morning of 16 March 2021 (Australian time). Title slide: Nicol and companion (supplied). You’ll find a selection of Nicol’s spectacular photos on the episode web page too . Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: Tune into the special extra with Nicol, 'If we could do this across the globe'. Nicol’s website . The Farmer’s Footprint short film (20 minutes) . Regenerate Oklahoma . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, y
Bonus · Mon, March 29, 2021
79 Excerpt. Systems Not Species: Reconnecting people, places & the politics of change
This is an excerpt from episode 79 featuring the last 20 minutes or so of my conversation with Keith Bradby, CEO of Gondwana Link. We explore the machinations of change, from intuition and leaps of faith, through to connecting all kinds of people and places, across all kinds of political and cultural divides. We then delve into what this means for the economics and politics of change, including how to keep carbon in context. And we close with how to keep ourselves from being distracted by the causes of our problems, to focus more on what matters most. Title slide: Keith Bradby (pic: Ami Vitale). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Gondwana Link: The most exciting restoration at scale in Australia, with Keith Bradby’. You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E79 · Mon, March 22, 2021
79. Gondwana Link: The most exciting restoration at scale in Australia, with Keith Bradby OAM
Gondwana Link has been called “the most exciting thing that is happening in restoration in Australia, if not the world.” It’s a one thousand kilometre stretch of country extending right across the south of Western Australia. This globally recognised biodiversity hotspot had been little understood, and devastatingly cleared. But not all of it. And Gondwana Link is restoring and re-connecting these land and seascapes, their communities, and their cultures. Hundreds of people, dozens of groups, private and public landholders, investors and more. One of the outstanding successes has been the First Nations-led restoration of Nowanup – and all on the back of a handshake. That seems like the big story here – the trust and re-connection, that bears the fruit of restoration. And you’ll find Keith Bradby right in the thick of it. Keith has been at the heart of Gondwana Link since it began nearly twenty years ago – and really, long before that. He’s the CEO of the organisation, has worked in business and as senior staff to cabinet ministers across the political spectrum, and exudes a love of connecting people and places. A walking ecology. Well, we all are really, but Keith sets a standard. His pivotal achievements read as long as your leg, playing key roles in developing the WA Landcare Network (he’s currently Chair), halting widespread clearing, and recrafting regional economies - both in Australia and now around the world. Among his many accolades, Keith’s been awarded the Great Southern Development Commission’s Medal of Excellence in Natural Resource Management in 2005, and an Order of Australia Medal in 2015. This conversation was recorded at one of the magnificent restoration sites at Twin Creeks, on 4 March 2021. Title slide: Keith Bradby (pic supplied). You'll find a series of other photos on the episode web page too, including a particularly uncanny one. Note: the quote at the top of this episode description was from Professor Richard Hobbs – an internationally recognised ecologist. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. Find more: On Keith Bradby. Gondwana Link. Get involved . Gondwana Link’s video channel , f Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Tue, March 16, 2021
78 Excerpt. Natural Intelligence: Providing the conditions for life to flow into
This is an excerpt from episode 78 featuring the last 25 minutes of my conversation with leading holistic farmers, Jeff Pow and Michelle McManus. We explore what it takes to regenerate country, community and custodianship. And to kick that off, I raise a section of the recent popular TV series here in Australia, Fight for Planet A, that had me squirming in my seat. We then delve into some fascinating work around the health of ancient cultures relative to our modern ‘lifestyle’ afflictions, and how we might harness the ‘best of both worlds’. We close with Jeff’s run for parliament and an invitation to join Jeff and Michelle on their custodial journey. Title slide: regenerated pasture at Southampton (pic: Justin Wolfgang). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Growing Food & Farmers – for 500 Years!’ You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Sat, March 13, 2021
78 Extra. From a thousand degrees underground to stewarding a sanctuary
Marking Jeff's run for Parliament at the West Australian state election today, this is a special extra to episode 78 with Jeff Pow and Michelle McManus. It’s a stretch of eight minutes or so that starts with Jeff describing the extraordinary and instructive experience of the day Southampton burned. And it closes with a collective reflection on notions of responsibility, stewardship and the long game. Title slide: The burned out shell of the historic Southampton Homestead (pic: Anthony James). Music: The Great Unwind, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode, ‘Growing Food & Farmers – for 500 Years!’ You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E78 · Tue, March 09, 2021
78. Growing Food & Farmers - for 500 years! With holistic managers Jeff Pow & Michelle McManus
Jeff Pow and Michelle McManus are bringing chicken farming back to earth, and playing a part in rebirthing opportunities for communities and regions everywhere. They’ll say they’re doing nothing particularly new, but they’re finding a way to regenerate country, community and economy in an unprecedented context of crises. For them, most recently, an horrific bushfire devastated their historic Southampton Homestead and Farm. We explore their soulful and award-winning journey of recovery, as they form part of a leading trend in farming – tending healthy people, animals and country, while reclaiming the terms of trade. That means taking back responsibility for the growing, processing and value-adding of all the food on the farm, and bringing it directly to the community. Jeff is a former corporate, now first-generation farmer with his wife Michelle. He had regenerated this land once already, after arriving in 2006 to a landscape devastated by pine plantations, before that horrific bushfire razed the place to the ground in 2013. He felt the call to go again, as an old friend came back into his life and ultimately became his wife. And together, they’re creating an incredible story, with their hand-reared chicken and other animals on perennial pastures, insects and sunshine. Now Jeff is standing for parliament at this month’s state election and, much like the Haggerty’s in episode 68, they’re inviting the return of farmers and others back on country, to scale the regeneration together, rather than as individual empires. They’re “growing food and farmers”, reclaiming the story of people and nature from Hobbesian nightmares, and restoring custodianship on country as our way out - creating the new system, as a means of emerging from the old. This conversation was recorded on location at Southampton Homestead and Farm on 3 December 2020. Title slide: Jeff on the farm (pic: Anthony James). You'll see more photos on the episode website . Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Tune into the special extra with Jeff and Michelle. Southampton Homestead website. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them
Bonus · Mon, March 01, 2021
77 Excerpt. Stories that are Changing the Story, with Damon Gameau
This is an excerpt from episode 77 featuring the last 15 minutes or so of my conversation with the award-winning director of ‘That Sugar Film’ and ‘2040’, Damon Gameau. We pick up on what Damon says has been the most rewarding, promising and important part of his work with both films – working with kids and teachers in education. One million young people have engaged with the 2040 film and initiatives alone. And its upcoming US TV release is still to come. We go on to talk about a number of other stories that are changing the story this year, our experience of an extraordinary generation of elders, and a reflection on what might just be needed most right now. Title slide: Damon Gameau in conscious company (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘2021: Approaching Regenerative Tipping Points’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S5 E77 · Mon, February 22, 2021
77. 2021: Approaching Regenerative Tipping Points? With award-winning film maker, Damon Gameau
Welcome to a new year of The RegenNarration. And what a year it’s shaping up to be. But before we get into that, I wanted to take a brief moment here to admit to feeling a little flat. And by extension, to explain the delayed start to the podcast this year. Some sad and in some ways seismic changes have consumed me in recent times. And really, these changes relate to everything this podcast is about. So this episode starts on that note, before leading in to a conversation spanning a spectrum of spectacular efforts to regenerate the systems and stories we live by. Kind enough to join me in this sweeping primer for the year is friend, supporter of the podcast, and masterfully accomplished director of That Sugar Film and 2040, Damon Gameau. We talk about some of what’s on, what’s coming on, and how we’re seeing the growing momentum towards regenerative tipping points. Dedicated to Dad. Title slide: Damon Gameau (supplied). Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell and Sunwrae. The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: The 2040 website. And you can find more of Damon and Anthony in conversation for episodes 30 (just prior to 2040 being released) and 38 (at the Perth premiere of the film). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E76 · Wed, December 09, 2020
76. Regeneration Soundtrack 2020: Highlights from our guests in 2020
We’re signing off for the year with our annual episode of highlights from our brilliant array of guests throughout 2020. If you’ve been listening throughout this unique and likely transformative year, enjoy the revisit. And for those newer to the podcast, here’s a snapshot of how the year played out on The RegenNarration. Track list: Welcome to 2020 (from ep. 53), to music by Jeremiah Johnson Dr Sheila Nguyen (from ep. 54) Mike Salvaris (from ep. 55), and Jo Chandler (from ep. 56), all to The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra An intro from home as COVID-19 lockdown begins, and Alanna Shaikh (from ep. 57) Eugenie Stockmann (from ep. 58), from a live panel event at the Uni of Notre Dame in Fremantle Dr Eduard Muller (from ep. 59), Matthew Evans (from ep. 60), Hunter Lovins (from ep. 61), Zach Bush MD (from ep. 62), Kirsten Larsen (from ep. 63), Tony Rinaudo (from ep. 64), all to music by Jeremiah Johnson Joel Johnsson and Dr Peter Barnes (from ep. 65), to On the Punt by Adam Gibson and the Aerial Maps David Pollock (from ep. 66), to the sounds of Wooleen Station Dr Terry McCosker (from ep. 67) and Dianne Haggerty (from ep. 68), to music by Jeremiah Johnson Mark Taylor (from ep. 69), to the sounds of the mill Tyson Yunkaporta (from ep. 70) and Dr Charles Massy (from the extract to ep. 32, accompanying the Australian Story TV program on Charles), to Stones and Bones by Owls of the Swamp Dr Kate Auty and Dr Alessandro Pellizon (from ep. 71), Nicole Masters (from ep. 72), Amy Steel and Lily Brazel (from ep. 73), and Rosanne Scott (from ep. 74), all to Faraway Castle by Rae Howell and Sunwrae Allan Savory (from ep. 75), to Scotland the Brave by Eric M Armour (sourced from the Free Music Archive). Title slide: Rainbow over the regenerating landscapes of the Haggerty’s (episode 68). With thanks to all of the brilliant musicians who generously granted permission for their music to appear here. Find more: To access the full catalogue of episodes, head to our website or wherever you get your podcasts. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and ex
Bonus · Sat, December 05, 2020
75 Extract. The Change is Very Close, with Allan Savory
This is an extract from episode 75 featuring the last half an hour of my conversation with regenerative agriculture and holistic management pioneer, Allan Savory. We pick up where Allan states the need for this to go mainstream now. He goes on to propose how it might happen, while laying down the challenge. And outlines why he believes the change is very close. We go on to talk about the largely ‘accidental’ way Allan’s life and insights have evolved, and the subtle but vital role ‘gut feel’ has played. Then close with a brilliant story, illustrative of what he’s learned most about how people best navigate change. Title slide: Allan Savory in trusted company (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Regenerating Civilisation: Allan Savory on holistic management, scaling & a sense of survival’. You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Tue, December 01, 2020
75 Extra. The Domino Effect: Addressing the cause of climate change, megafire & desertification
This is a special extra to episode 75 with Allan Savory. We delve further here into a few areas that have been pivotal to Allan’s pioneering life. It starts with a little exchange on how wilderness and livestock-based agriculture can regenerate country together (and where they can’t). Then we turn to the wilderness within, going back to the incredibly formative time Allan experienced as a tracker. And another as the leader of the opposition party in Rhodesia, before being forced into political exile. All this unexpectedly led to meeting his wife Jody Butterfield, setting in tow a partnership that would change the world. We wind up with more on what success (and failure) looks like, including holistically managing government. Title slide: Allan delivering his famous TED talk. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Regenerating Civilisation: Allan Savory on holistic management, scaling up & a sense of survival’. You’ll find a series of photos on that episode web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E75 · Tue, December 01, 2020
75. Regenerating Civilisation: Allan Savory on holistic management, scaling & a sense of survival
Haul back through the spread of regenerative agriculture in recent decades, and Allan Savory is there. His global influence is hard to overstate. Here we chat about his extraordinary life, and the evolution of his insights that have proved so transformative for so many. Thinking holistically is one thing. But how do we actually manage our lives and societies holistically? And ultimately, how do we engage the institutions that we’ve come to so distrust, to enable regeneration at scale - in whatever our role or walk of life? Far from just in agriculture, but certainly not without it. Allan believes it’s possible, and proposes how it might be done. Allan’s the founder and President of The Savory Institute. He’s also Chair and co-founder, with wife Jody Butterfield, of the Africa Centre for Holistic Management back home in Zimbabwe. His TED talk has now been viewed over seven million times. And his most valued award was Australia’s esteemed International Banksia Award (there's a photo on the episode website linked below) for the person doing the most for the environment on a global scale. This episode marks what would have been the 77th birthday of the bloke who introduced me to systems thinking and living 20 years ago – a man who somehow did find his way in academia, albeit in notably different ways, the late Professor Frank Fisher. I couldn’t imagine a more fitting guest to mark the occasion than Allan. We met online for this conversation on Saturday 22 November 2020. Title slide: Allan Savory. You’ll see a terrific selection of other photos on the website (supplied). Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell and Sunwrae. Scotland the Brave, by Eric M. Armour - Sourced from the Free Music Archive under Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License . Find more: You can also hear a special extra to this episode with Allan. The Savory Institute , including Allan’s famous text and a new handbook, with courses, global network etc. The Africa Centre for Holistic Management Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Mon, November 23, 2020
74 Extract. Going the Distance: Rosanne Scott on holistic living, a life’s insights & old hymns
This is an extract from episode 74 featuring the end of my conversation with the founding director and current Chair of Perth City Farm, Rosanne Scott. We’d just been talking about some of the powerful stories of Aboriginal heritage where City Farm is located. That lead to the exchange we start with here, about arts and culture being central to organising societies in holistic, fulfilling and effective ways. We go on to trace this theme through Rosanne’s life – from her childhood in Kolkata, to her early incarnation as a primary school teacher, and on through a host of divergent and extraordinary threads that led to City Farm, and beyond. We follow Rosanne through the Theosophical Society and Findhorn, to the PIA Wadjuri community and Wooleen Station in the Murchison, to Activate the Wheat Belt and the year of the pandemic. We end up at her life mantra, and some very moving and entertaining personal reflections. Title slide: Perth City Farm (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘City Farm: From industrial wasteland to cultural icon, with founding director Rosanne Scott’. You’ll find a series of terrific photos on that web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E74 · Wed, November 18, 2020
74. City Farm: From industrial wasteland to cultural icon, with founding director Rosanne Scott
Last year was the 25th birthday of a cultural icon and regenerative hub, nestled into the inner eastern suburbs of Perth, Western Australia. City Farm is an extraordinary place – an urban farm with a big vision. This half hectare block was a degraded industrial wasteland. But an inspired community transformed it into a place for organic food, farming, community connection, arts, enterprise and education that enables people to live richly and regeneratively. It’s first load of soil actually came from the original theatre production of another cultural phenomenon, Bran Nue Dae. So much of how City Farm came to be is an incredible story, often looking far from likely. And in the current context of the world, it feels like a powerful symbol of what’s possible, and an instructive experience for going about it. Rosanne Scott is a colourful, open-hearted visionary. She was founding director of City Farm for its first 17 years, and is now Chair. All the while, she has been a trailblazer across many other areas and projects, all over WA, and has been honoured by organisations across the political and cultural spectrum for her decades of pioneering work. Born in Calcutta to a South Indian Anglican Minister and accomplished Armenian mother, and initially a primary school teacher in Australia, not much of Rosanne’s story seemed particularly likely either. We met up at City Farm a couple of days ago for this conversation. Title slide: Rosanne Scott (supplied). See more photos on the website. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell and Sunwrae. Find more: Perth City Farm. Trillion Trees. Rosanne Scott. And the WA Museum dedication to Fanny Balbuk , the Aboriginal woman who continued to walk the Songlines as the colonial settlement of Perth grew. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on P
Bonus · Tue, November 10, 2020
73 Extract. Sport, Nature & The Superhuman: The stories that connect, with Amy Steel & Lily Brazel
This is an extract from episode 73 featuring the end of my conversation with Amy Steel, former Australian netballer, global EcoAthletes and Sports Environment Alliance Ambassador, and Senior Manager | Sustainability and Climate Change at Deloitte; and Lily Brazel, now former Australian hockey player, global EcoAthletes Ambassador, and founder of Stature Clothing (including its podcast The State of Us). We pick up here with Lily’s bombshell, letting go of her lifelong dream of playing for the Hockeyroos at the Olympics. And we follow the threads through navigating change and our deeper purpose, empowering sports people to step up on what matters most, and the stories that connect us to our genuinely ‘super’ human nature. Title slide: Amy Steel and Lily Brazil playing their new roles for the bigger team (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘The Biggest Sports Story: Climate, business and a sense of ultimate success’. You’ll find a series of photos on that web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E73 · Tue, November 03, 2020
73. The Biggest Sports Story: Climate, business & a sense of ultimate success
Amy Steel and Lily Brazel are outstanding international athletes. Well, Amy was. Until a heat stroke after a pre-season game prematurely ended her career. Still suffering the effects today, she’s set upon a path of working with big business to help achieve perhaps humanity's greatest milestone - meeting the Paris Climate Agreements. Amy’s quickly established herself as Senior Manager, Sustainability and Climate Change at Deloitte, while also being a global Ambassador for EcoAthletes and the Australian Sports Environment Alliance. Lily’s a slightly different story. Still at the outset of her international sports career, as part of the Hockeyroos – the successful Australian women’s hockey team – Lily was in training for the postponed Tokyo Olympics. This was a lifelong dream. But dropping a bombshell just prior to this conversation, she revealed she’s resigned from the team. In Lily’s case, it was the start of her international career that was transformative. And living by her values is forging a changing path. That path includes founding a business called Stature Clothing, a sports clothing brand with the mantra to ‘repair, repurpose & regenerate – that waste is not an option’. Leading into the next Australian summer here again evokes images of last summer’s horror fires. Caught up in that cataclysmic event were mass cancellations of sporting events, and extensive damage to sporting facilities and clubs across the country. Since then, the northern hemisphere fires, and of course the related pandemic (another symptom of destabilised planetary conditions), rammed home the message - just how vulnerable we are on our current trajectory. That has spurred another level of engagement by sports people and organisations everywhere, to help us change that trajectory. Sport is such an important, enlivening and powerful part of societies everywhere, so the value of sport in this transition can’t be understated. Amy and Lily are two international athletes who have felt all this acutely, and are stepping up in brilliant ways. Title slide: Amy Steel and Lily Brazil at the height of their international sports careers (supplied). See more pics on the episode web page. Game sounds at the start of the episode are from the 2011 Trans-Tasman netball championship win that Amy was a part of ( source ). Music: Fara Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding
Bonus · Mon, October 26, 2020
72 Extract. Being the Work: Living the mycelial network of regeneration, with Nicole Masters
This is an extract from episode 72 featuring the end of my conversation with author, systems thinker and regenerative soils educator, Nicole Masters. We talk about what she’s seen of human transformation, particularly where people have been navigating change pro-actively, as opposed to responding to trauma. We go on to chat about where the regenerative movement is at, her changing focus, and the powerful marriage of story-tellers with the regeneration happening on the ground. Title slide: Nicole Masters (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Restoring the Metropolis of Living Earth: From the chemical paradigm to nature’s paradigm’. You’ll find a series of photos on that web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Thu, October 22, 2020
72 Extra. Transcending the polarised vaccination debates, with Nicole Masters
This extra to episode 72 features an additional few minutes with author, systems thinker and regenerative soils educator, Nicole Masters. It stems from the enthralling part of our conversation in the main episode about soil, the microbiome, gut health and our immune systems (from around the 40-minute mark). This triggered a question that I’d thought about a while back, after speaking with Dr Zach Bush on all this for episode 62. What are the implications of all this for the polarised debates around vaccinations? Title slide: Nicole Masters (supplied). You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , ‘Restoring the Metropolis of Living Earth: From the chemical paradigm to nature’s paradigm’. You’ll find a series of photos on that web page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E72 · Tue, October 20, 2020
72. Restoring the Metropolis of Living Earth: From chemical to nature’s paradigm with Nicole Masters
The world is desertifying at a truly alarming rate. It’s estimated that thirty footy fields of soil are lost per minute around the world. And after thousands of years of human agriculture, there may only be 60 harvests left in those soils. But if you’ve been listening to this podcast for a while, you’ll know there’s another option here – a regenerative transformation is emerging with at times staggering speed and success. And in some of my recent conversations, you’ll have heard me mention one of the brilliant – and entertaining - women leading the way. Nicole Masters is one of the world’s most respected advocates and educators in regenerating our food and related systems. She is a systems thinker, regenerative soils educator, founding director of Integrity Soils, and author of the brilliant book ‘For the Love of Soil: Strategies to Regenerate our Food Production Systems’. Nicole is bringing living soil into view, for farmers and other producers, and for all of us really - helping us see, value and tend, perhaps our most vital fellow living organism on the planet. Nicole joins Anthony online from her home in Montana, USA, for a deeply personal conversation grounded in this transformative time. Title slide: Nicole Masters and friend (supplied). See the episode web page for more photos. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell and Sunwrae. Find more: You can hear more of my conversation with Nicole in an extra to this episode, coming soon. Nicole's website (including a link to Nicole's renowned TED talk and more on her book). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Vis
Bonus · Mon, October 12, 2020
71 Extract. It's to do with the Koori Courts, with live panel
This is an extract of our live panel conversation from the end of episode 71, ‘The Law of the Land: Creating a regenerative system of law’. Each speaker has just presented for 10 minutes, so we pick up here at the beginning of our all-in conversation with Professor Kate Auty, Dr Alessandro Pelizzon, Nicola Rivers and Michael Leunig. It starts with Kate relating the success of the Koori Courts to our collective needs right now. We go on to explore varied cultural understandings of law and the living world, where and how people are making law work well, and how we might reframe our thinking to regenerate the law of the land. Title slide (L-R): Michael Leunig & Anthony James (obscured here but visible in full on the website), Kate Auty, Nicola Rivers & Alessandro Pelizzon (pic: Chris Grose). You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 71 , ‘The Law of the Land: Creating a regenerative system of law’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to an extra with the rest of this conversation along with audience Q&A. And there are some photos of the event on the website (linked above). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Tue, October 06, 2020
71 Extra. The Coolamon Trees: Changing law at its core, with live panel
This extra to episode 71 features the rest of our live conversation with Professor Kate Auty, Dr Alessandro Pelizzon and Nicola Rivers. We pick up the last 5 minutes of our conversation on stage, before 20 minutes or so of outstanding audience Q&A. The conversation delves further here into the global movement for the rights of nature, including where it’s being done well, the “intensely practical” role we have in all this, and how to think about law as part of the overarching transition to regenerative societies. Title slide: Coolamon tree ( source ). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode , The Law of the Land: Creating a regenerative system of law. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, and a photo of the panel in action on the website (link above). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E71 · Tue, October 06, 2020
71. The Law Of The Land: Creating a regenerative system of law, with live panel
Decades of legal protection for the living world haven’t stopped it being progressively destroyed. So what do we need to do, and what’s currently being done, to regenerate the law of the land and better protect and restore the living world? Thinking about all this again in recent weeks prompted me to go back to a recording of a live panel event I produced on the topic at Melbourne’s Federation Square back in 2015 (billed Preventing Crimes Against Nature at the time). I was moved all over again by the conversation that night, featuring some of the major system changes at play, and the cultural changes so intertwined with them. You’ll hear: Nicola Rivers, co-CEO of Environmental Justice Australia , who came to this event directly from the first national conference of the Panel of Experts on Environmental Law deliberating on the 'next generation' of legislative frameworks for the protection of nature Dr Alessandro Pelizzon is now Senior Lecturer in the School of Law and Justice at Southern Cross University, one of the founding members of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature, and supported the drafting of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Professor Kate Auty, brilliant community figurehead, former Victorian and ACT Commissioner of Sustainability and Environment, and now Chair of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria Michael Leunig, National Living Treasure, cartoonist & esteemed elder of the Understandascope , generating a wellspring of commentary on political, cultural and emotional life spanning more than forty years. Each guest speaks for 10 minutes, before our all-in conversation. Note: Ellen Sandell, MP for the seat of Melbourne where this event was held, sent a brief message in, which is why you’ll hear her referred to. Title slide: Gantheaume Point, near Broome in the Kimberley region of WA (pic: Anthony James). Thanks Carly, James & the Understandascope team for co-creating this event, Chris Grose from Scout Films, & the National Sustainable Living Festival. Music: Faraway Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae - watch the wonderfu Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Sat, September 26, 2020
32 Extract. Land, Mind & Regeneration, with Charles Massy
On Monday 28 September, one of this country’s most awarded and long-standing documentary series, Australian Story, featured regenerative farmer and best-selling author, Charles Massy AO. Charles’ best-selling book, ‘Call of the Reed Warbler: A New Agriculture, A New Earth’ has been described by Paul Hawken as “a definitive masterpiece that takes its place along with the writings of Aldo Leopold, Wendell Berry, Masanobu Fukuoka, Humberto Maturana, and Michael Pollan. No work has more brilliantly defined regenerative agriculture and the breadth of its restorative impact upon human health, biodiversity, climate, and ecological intelligence.” Charles writes and talks about the growing repertory of stories of what are in some cases extraordinary tales of regeneration – including his own. He also takes a look behind that regeneration, at how change happens not just in the land, but in the landscape of our minds. This is an extract of my conversation with Charles Massy at his Severn Park farm a couple of years ago, just prior to his touring the global edition of the book. You’ll hear the last half hour or so of what became episode 32, ‘An Underground Insurgency: Regenerative Agriculture & Human Transformation’. It remains one of the top handful of episodes played on this podcast, and one of my most cherished and memorable conversations. Title slide: New trees as part of the patchwork restoring biodiversity, ecological & farm function (pic: Anthony James). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in episode 32 , ‘An Underground Insurgency: Regenerative Agriculture & Human Transformation’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes there too, including to an extra with Charles, and photos on the episode web page. Watch the Australian Story episode on Charles, streaming worldwide. And if you'd like to hear more from Dianne and Ian Haggerty, also featured in the Australian Story episode on Charles, listen to our recent conversation on location in the WA wheat belt. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Bec
Bonus · Thu, September 24, 2020
70 Extract 2. Long-form Podcasts as the New Camp Fire, with Tyson Yunkaporta
There are so many notable parts of this episode with Tyson Yunkaporta that, true to the title of this extract, invite you to come sit with us for the hour and a bit of the main episode (and the extra if you'd like more). But having said that, this is another little extract I did want to highlight. It’s our foundational exchange early in the piece on long-form podcasting being the new camp fire. Particularly in the absence of being around a real fire for much of this year, I like Tyson’s articulation of this frame. And his subsequent reflection on what this says about our allegedly shrinking attention spans. Title slide: Tyson with his daughter at the launch of Sand Talk (supplied – full pic is on the web page of the main episode, linked below). You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 70 , ‘Sand Talk: Indigenous thinking, saving the world & living creation’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to an extra with Tyson. There are a series of photos on the main episode page too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, September 21, 2020
70 Extract. Sand, Superhumans & Songlines, with Tyson Yunkaporta
This is an extract of my conversation with Tyson Yunkaporta from the end of episode 70, ‘Sand Talk: Indigenous thinking, saving the world & living creation’. It starts with me suggesting to Tyson, in the wake of our conversation to this point, that a particular tale in his book might offer us a touchstone for our yarn. It turns out he’d never been asked about this part of his book before, but I’d noted it’s something he thinks about every day. The minutes that ensued have stayed with me since – and Tyson too, I’ve been humbled to learn. And they run here into an awesome story surrounding his choice of music. While, in a way, it’s tough to take this out of the ‘camp fire’ context of our conversation, this sequence might not just offer a touchstone for this yarn, but in many ways for the podcast as a whole. Title slide: Oldman Juma, in a photo from the launch of Sand Talk. Tyson and his young daughter also appear in this photo, which you can find in full on the main episode page below (pic supplied by Tyson). You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 70 , ‘Sand Talk: Indigenous thinking, saving the world & living creation’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to an extra with Tyson, and there's a series of photos on the website too. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, September 14, 2020
70 Extra. This Galactic Executive Function, with Tyson Yunkaporta
This extra to episode 70 features the rest of my conversation with Tyson Yunkaporta, author of the award-winning book Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World. This is the part of our conversation that picked up after Tyson’s toilet stop. We delve further here into the universality of loss in being separated from land, the fascinating convergence of thinking around the centrality of the gut to our larger intelligence or big spirit, and the essential value of being with those different to us. Title slide: Tyson Yunkaporta (source: the Team Human podcast). Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode 70 , Sand Talk: Indigenous thinking, living creation & saving the world. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes there too, along with some additional photos on the website. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E70 · Mon, September 14, 2020
70. Sand Talk: Indigenous thinking, saving the world & living creation, with Tyson Yunkaporta
Tyson Yunkaporta is the author of award-winning book, Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World, and a Senior Lecturer in Indigenous Knowledges at Deakin University in Melbourne. He’s also a poet and artist carving traditional tools and weapons, processes that were central to writing the book. Tyson belongs to the Apalech Clan from Western Cape York in far north Queensland, with community/cultural ties all over Australia. Fellow Indigenous writer, last year’s Miles Franklin Award winner Melissa Lucashenko, called Sand Talk ‘An extraordinary invitation into the world of the Dreaming’. Tommy Orange, best-selling author of ‘There There’, said ‘This book shows how vital and alive and essential Indigenous ways of being and thinking are.’ Tyson’s Australian publisher Text describes the book as looking at global systems from an Indigenous perspective, asking how contemporary life diverges from the pattern of creation, and how we can do things differently. A few months ago, Sand Talk was published internationally by Harper Collins, with this statement: A paradigm-shifting book in the vein of Sapiens that brings a crucial Indigenous perspective to historical and cultural issues of history, education, money, power, and sustainability—and offers a new template for living. Well, it’ll be wonderfully new to many, and of course profoundly old to others. Either way, it’s rich and essential terrain to be travelling together. Especially with the spirit of generosity and trust that Tyson embodies here. I’m still feeling deeply moved by this one. And frankly, changed again. This conversation was recorded Thursday 13 August. Title slide: Tyson Yunkaporta from Australian publisher Text’s promotional video for the book . Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Find more: You can hear more of my conversation with Tyson in the extra to this episode , This Galactic Executive Function. Original Australian version of ‘Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World’ , published by Text. International version of the book, published by Harper Collins. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by <a href='https://www.regennarration
Bonus · Thu, September 10, 2020
67 Extract. I Believe We Can Go All The Way, with co-founder of RCS Australia Dr Terry McCosker
This is an extract from what has quickly become one of the most played episodes on this podcast - and the second most played episode in the last year (behind only my conversation with Zach Bush MD, the keynote international guest to RCS Australia’s Conference scheduled next year). It features the last 20 minutes of my conversation with Terry McCosker for episode 67, Behind the Greatest Regenerative Agriculture Movement in Australia: Dr Terry McCosker on life, death and learning true power. We talk about the power of intention, where the regenerative economy is at in Australia (prompted by a revealing exchange with Hunter Lovins on her home state of Colorado in episode 61), some of Terry’s pioneering story and the history of a movement, the perspectives he’s come to from all that, and his compelling belief and vision for Australia and beyond. Title slide: off the RCS website. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 67. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to a special extra with Terry. You can also hear my conversation with Terry’s close friends and fellow regenerative agriculture pioneers, Dianne and Ian Haggerty , on location in the wheat belt of WA, for episode 68. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, September 07, 2020
68 Extract. Opportunities to Get Back on Country, with Dianne & Ian Haggerty
This is an extract from my conversation with Dianne and Ian Haggerty for episode 68, Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health and community. You'll hear the last 20 minutes of the main episode, back at the homestead, after we’d been getting around a couple of the farms over the preceding days. We talk about how the Haggerty's are creating and supporting ‘work to own’ and value-add enterprises to help regenerate community on country. This is a great place to live, they say, with plenty of space and opportunity. And they’re helping people do it. We go on to chat about what’s amazed them, and ignited others, on their extraordinary regenerative journey. And given they’ll tell you they’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible, we explore how people everywhere can go about it. Title slide: Di, Ian & Anthony recording on location in the wheat belt of Western Australia (pic: Olivia Cheng). Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 68 , ‘Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health & community’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to some extras. There are a series of photos on the main episode page too. You can also hear my conversation with Mark Taylor from Miller & Baker in North Perth (talked about in this extract) for episode 69 , ‘Communities Were Built Around This: The return of the miller and baker’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop
S4 E69 · Tue, September 01, 2020
69. Communities Were Built Around This: The return of the Miller & Baker, with Mark Taylor
Mark Taylor is the miller and baker at the Miller + Baker store, recently opened in North Perth. It is a spectacular American Stone Mill (the first of its kind in Western Australia), and an amazing bakery, but that’s not the half of it. You might remember in my conversation with pioneering regenerative farmers Dianne and Ian Haggerty, for episode 68, that they mentioned some of their ‘natural intelligence’ grains go to this local miller and baker. Well, I’ve followed the grain’s trail to hear more of this brilliant story. Mark had barely even run a mill before embarking on this adventure. But with wife Rachel, they found an increasing passion for it, and a growing base of support, and opened late last year. Even during the coronavirus pandemic, and partly because it, business has taken off. They find themselves open every day of the week now, with rapidly growing volumes of regeneratively grown grains coming in from the wheat belt, and out via the mill. And their vision has only just begun. Mark was kind enough to show me around this pretty special venture – the sort of local processor and store that seems so central to what is needed now – for healthier food and communities, secure and joyful supply chains, and no less than a functional living world as a whole. Title slide: supplied ( see more photos on the episode web page ). Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: Miller + Baker. Hear more about where the grains come from, in my conversation with Dianne & Ian Haggerty on location in the wheat belt: Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health & community. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the <a href='https://anthonyaus.substack.
Bonus · Tue, August 25, 2020
68 Extra 2. Sensing Country: A series of offcuts, with Dianne & Ian Haggerty
This additional extra to episode 68 features a series of conversations at the homestead that were reluctantly cut from the main episode, along with some off-the-record exchanges around the fire one evening. Together, they chart an important and moving part of the story. From how business is being done with the natural intelligence system, and the opportunities being sought for all – and not just with carbon; to the intuitive depth underpinning their re-connection with Country, and how we might better engage with the land and its traditional custodians to bring that to the forefront. We start by the fire, where families and friends gathered at dusk. You’ll hear some of those voices in the off-the-record grabs in the second half of this extra. Then jump in the ute with us, as we head back to the homestead. Title slide: The view from the off-the-record fireside conversation that features in this extra (pic: Anthony James). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 68 , ‘Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health & community’. You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too, including to another extra on the Haggerty’s back story. You’ll find a series of photos on the main episode page too. You can also hear my conversation with Terry McCosker (Terry is referenced towards the end of this extra) for episode 67, ‘Behind the Greatest Regenerative Agriculture Movement in Australia’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on B
Bonus · Mon, August 24, 2020
68 Extra. The ‘Natural Intelligence’ Back Story: With Dianne & Ian Haggerty at the homestead
In this extra to episode 68, we delve into the fascinating back story of Di and Ian’s ‘world breakthrough’ operation. We talk about how they came to their key insights and breakthroughs, Di’s formative experience in the health industry, what owning a remote roadhouse taught them, some of the extraordinary people, places and communities who’ve influenced them on the journey, and yes, how they were told they’d never make it. Ian and Di Haggerty were raised in farming families. They’re both of the wheat belt in WA. But that line of work didn’t pan out initially, so they headed to other places and professions. When running a roadhouse in the remote Kimberley of Western Australia, they spent formative time with Aboriginal communities and influential pastoralists, and the lights were switched on. They picked up a degraded farm back in the wheat belt and transformed it. That’s now the foundation of their regenerative mission, progressively picking up farms, now totalling around 65,000 acres, each on the regenerative path with staggering speed and success. Title slide: The sheep at the heart of the ‘natural intelligence’ operation, grazing in the distance under the rainbow (pic: Anthony James). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation on the main episode 68 , ‘Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health & community’. (You’ll find a series of links in the show notes of the main episode too.) Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends.
S4 E68 · Mon, August 17, 2020
68. Natural Intelligence Farming: The ‘world breakthrough’ regenerating land, health & community
Dianne and Ian Haggerty form a highly respected, pioneering regenerative farming duo. I’ve come to visit them in the central wheat belt of Western Australia, to learn more about what Charles Massy has called their ‘world breakthrough’ operation. They call it ‘natural intelligence’ farming. Guided by the microbiome, and a whole host of other living systems, the Haggerty’s are regenerating degraded drylands grappling with salinity, chemical residues, climate and other compounding issues, and turning it into thriving cropland, even with as little as 100ml of annual rain. They’re finding it resulting in an extraordinary array of benefits, including clean quality produce, significant carbon drawdown, and a much less stressful way of life. And it doesn’t stop there. From detoxifying even the notorious herbicide glyphosate, to returning fresh water to salt-ridden lakes, they are constantly surprised by what nature is turning up. And they achieve all this while successfully producing for both local and global markets, and backing in the next generation of regenerative farmers. Ian and Di currently run around 65,000 acres of farmland, each on the regenerative path with staggering speed and success. And that’s recasting all sorts of possibilities – for human health and prosperity, animal welfare, regional communities, and a regenerative economy and culture more broadly. With the UN forecasting we have less than 60 harvests left in our degrading soils, this has global relevance. I got around a couple of the farms with Di and Ian – in some brilliant rare rain – for this conversation (recorded on 17 and 18 July 2020). Title slide: Ian and Dianne Haggerty (pic: Anthony James). Find more: Tune into the extra to this episode with Di & Ian, coming later this week. And catch Di & Ian (along with Charles Massy) on Australian Story, screening on the ABC in September 2020. Ground Cover, a short film featuring Di & Ian Haggerty by Smart Soil Media. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you'
Bonus · Mon, August 03, 2020
67 Extra. Recarbonising the Economy, Regenerative Education & Fire in the Belly of Reconciliation
In this special extra to episode 67, we talk about some of the key changes that Terry’s observed over the decades, and how to keep them coming. We also elaborate on the vision he articulated in the main episode, including some major shifts in supply chains and some of the positive politics currently unfolding around carbon and biodiversity credits. And we delve more deeply into his stock in trade – what regenerative education looks like! Terry tells the story of the teacher who triggered his growth from high school drop-out to where he’s at today. And another moving story anchors our closing conversation on the vital issues of drought and flood, fire and First Nations people, and trust, in the regeneration of country. Title slide: from the RCS website. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of this conversation with Terry for episode 67 , ‘Behind the Greatest Regenerative Agriculture Movement in Australia’. (You’ll find a series of links in the show notes too.) Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E67 · Mon, August 03, 2020
67. Behind the Greatest Regen Ag Movement: Dr Terry McCosker on life, death & learning true power
Terry McCosker is a formidable store of experience and wisdom, born of a love of the land and an acute sense of humanity, and forged through suffering unimaginable tragedy. And that’s alongside the trials and tribulations that come from simply being at the vanguard of significant change. Terry is a farmer, self-described transient part-owner of the National Estate, and co-founder of RCS Australia. Charles Massy has called RCS this country’s leading broad-scale grazing and farming education company. And he says, “When I look back over the rise of regenerative agriculture in Australia, I see at the forefront Terry and Pam McCosker and their RCS organisation. Today it remains a world leader in the field.” Terry is credited with bringing holistic grazing to Australia, having connected with global pioneers Stan Parsons and Allan Savory. But let it be known, he thought it was “the greatest pile of shit he’d ever seen”. He ended up embarking on extensive research testing the theories and practices for himself. When he became convinced of Parsons' and Savory’s work, “Thus began”, Massy says, “arguably the single greatest broad-acre regenerative agriculture movement to turn around land degradation and profitability in farming in this country.” Now there are almost 10,000 producers around Australia, and the world, that have been involved in RCS’ programs. Whatever your walk of life, and whatever angle you’re taking, or thinking of taking, in the regenerative movement, this conversation resonates on a deeply human level. It was recorded last Thursday, 30 July 2020. Title slide: Terry McCosker (supplied). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Tune into the extra to this episode , ‘Recarbonising the Economy, Regenerative Education & the Fire in the Belly of Reconciliation, with Terry McCosker'. RCS Australia’s International Conference – Convergence: Agriculture | Human and Planetary Health, featuring Zach Bush MD and many more, with Anthony James as MC. RCS Australia’s website. Project Pioneer, RCS' brilliant work on improving the health of the Great Barrier Reef. Listen Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S4 E66 · Mon, July 27, 2020
66. Wooleen, A Year On: Carbon trading, COVID & mining for regeneration, with David Pollock
David Pollock is one of Australia’s most prominent regenerative pastoralists. You may have seen David and his wife Frances on ABC TV’s Australian Story. You may also have heard my previous conversations with them on this podcast. The most recent of those was when David’s brilliant book was released, almost a year ago. It’s called ‘The Wooleen Way: Renewing an Australian Resource’, and it’s been described as ‘The astonishing story of reviving the oldest land on Earth’. Well, a lot has happened in a year, so I’m back at Wooleen Station to see how David and Frances have been experiencing it. David’s book has been shortlisted for the Premier’s Prize for an Emerging Writer, carbon trading has been formally introduced on pastoral lands in Western Australia, and of course COVID-19 has happened. We also talk about one of David’s key proposals in his book, that we didn’t cover last time – how mining could be harnessed towards the regeneration of country. There are a few other updates on our chat from last year too. And while it’s barely rained here in the last year, unfortunately, this meant we got a look at how the enduring health of the landscape was holding up. David and I took a walked around the Station museum and workshop on a cool afternoon a little over a week ago, for this conversation. Title slide: The Wooleen Station Homestead (pic: Anthony James). You'll find a range of photos from this visit to Wooleen Station on the episode web page. Find more: David’s book ‘The Wooleen Way: Renewing an Australian Resource’ . Wooleen Station. You can hear the detailed conversation David and I shared on the release of his book ‘The Wooleen Way’ in episode 44. You can also hear David and his wife Frances in conversation with Charles Massy in episode 16 ‘Gra Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all f
Bonus · Thu, July 16, 2020
65 Extract. Resilient Reefs: A global vision, proven model & coming together to survive coral reefs
This is an extract from our conversation on Jansz Beach overlooking Ningaloo Reef, for episode 65. It features the first 15 minutes of our chat on the Resilient Reefs Initiative – the vision, the successful model it’s based on, and what’s happened so far. That includes some brilliant recent developments bringing people together, including some breaking news regarding the Traditional Custodians and now Native Title holders. The last 5 minutes or so is drawn from the end of the episode. It includes how we can help, an epiphany that sparked some of the work, and a closing story that encapsulates some of the power and meaning of coral reefs. Some great Australian music we could licence for the podcast sends us home (thanks to Adam Gibson) – and even a little bloopers reel. Oops! Title slide: Ningaloo Reef, by Joel Johnsson. Music: On the Punt, by Adam Gibson and The Aerial Maps. Find more: You can listen to the full conversation in the main episode 65 – Keeping Coral: Regenerating coral reef communities & livelihoods, with Dr Peter Barnes & Joel Johnsson. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E65 · Mon, July 13, 2020
65. Keeping Coral: Regenerating reef communities & livelihoods, with the Resilient Reefs Initiative
We're back at the magnificent Ningaloo Reef for a couple of firsts - the first conversation in person for the year, and a world first collaboration aiming for the survival of the world’s coral reefs, and the communities that depend on them. Dr Peter Barnes is the Marine Park Coordinator at Ningaloo Reef – one of five World Heritage listed coral reefs. Australia is blessed with the responsibility for two of these – the other being the Great Barrier Reef – which only serves to heighten the importance of the work Peter and co. are doing here. One of Peter’s newest colleagues is Joel Johnsson. Joel is the Chief Resilience Officer recently appointed at Ningaloo for the global Resilient Reefs Initiative. Of course, coral reefs have been resilient systems for ages – inter-woven with traditional cultures. But the scale of damaging human impact is now jeopardising their existence. Even at 1.5 degrees global warming, the IPCC expects the coral reefs of the world would be largely wiped out. In other words, even the best-case target set by the Paris agreement would risk the annihilation of some of the world’s greatest wonders. And one of its greatest generators of human wellbeing, prosperity and meaning. In that context, the Resilient Reefs Initiative is taking a holistic approach – with people at its heart. How can human communities and agencies recreate the way we live with coral reefs, to enhance the resilience of the whole? We’ll need greenhouse gas emission targets met in accordance with the Paris agreement, for a start. And in all likelihood the carbon drawdown efforts we’ve been talking about on this podcast, with regenerative agriculture and other holistic management practices. Alongside these efforts, the timing and delivery of Resilient Reefs is seen as critical to the survival of the world’s coral reefs, and the enormous variety of human and other life that thrives with them. And you’ll hear some breaking news on how the traditional custodians remain central to it. To talk about it, Pete, Joel and I sat down at Jansz Beach, overlooking Ningaloo. Title slide pic: Ningaloo Reef, by Joel Johnsson. You’ll find some other brilliant pics of the Reef by Joel on the episode website . With thanks to the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions for enabling this conversation. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestr Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Fri, July 03, 2020
64 Extract. A global vision, Restore Australia & the power of reconciliation, with Tony Rinaudo AM
This is an extract from the end of my conversation with Tony Rinaudo, the award-winning Senior Climate Action Advisor for World Vision, aka The Forest Maker. We talk about his global vision, how societies can come to read the land again, and how the extraordinary summer bushfires triggered a major new global collaboration recently launched in Australia. But it was the story Tony told of a truth and reconciliation process in Africa that perhaps holds the key to all of it. Title slide: the moment of Tony’s epiphany, in the early 1980’s (credit unknown). Find more: You can listen to the full conversation with Tony in the main episode 64 - The Forest Maker: And the largest positive environmental transformation in Africa, with Tony Rinaudo AM. You’ll find a link there to a 5 minute special extra too, featuring a short story from the time of Tony’s departure from Niger: ‘We Were Nothing (the trees were almost a side-event)’. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, June 29, 2020
64 Extra. We Were Nothing (the trees were almost a side-event), with Tony Rinaudo AM
After we’d signed off on our conversation for the podcast, Tony and I kept talking. Thankfully I hadn’t stopped recording, because what followed could have been the first thing we talked about. In some ways, it sums up everything. So here it is. A little of our parting exchange. Starting with a story from the time of Tony's leaving Niger. If you’ve come to this extra first, head over to the main episode 64 to hear the rest of my conversation with Tony Rinaudo AM (link below). Title slide: Halidou, from the village of Gangara, sitting among the trees (pic: Tony Rinaudo). Find more: You can listen to the full conversation with Tony in the main episode 64 - The Forest Maker: And the largest positive environmental transformation in Africa, with Tony Rinaudo AM. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E64 · Mon, June 29, 2020
64. The Forest Maker: And the largest environmental transformation in Africa, with Tony Rinaudo AM
Tony Rinaudo AM is the award winning Senior Climate Action Advisor for World Vision, also known as The Forest Maker. This Australian agronomist revolutionized reforestation in Africa, alongside the communities in which he worked, with a system called Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR). In Niger alone, where the desert was still expanding 20 years ago, around six million hectares of land have been restored. Having spread to 24 countries in Africa, Tony’s vision is for it to reach 100 countries around the world this decade, and he’s not alone. The movement is fast spreading globally. The transformation in Niger has been called "probably the largest positive environmental transformation in the Sahel and perhaps in all of Africa," by internationally acclaimed environmental specialist Chris Reij. Though Tony will tell you the transformation was in the people first, starting with himself. He’ll also tell you that the solutions found in Africa worked because they were low-cost, rapid and scalable. And that the lessons he learnt living on the edge of the Sahara Desert relate to so much of what the rest of the world needs today. Recognition for Tony’s decades of pioneering work has come in the form of multiple awards including the Commandeur de Merite, Agricole, Rep. du Niger, and the Right Livelihood Award. The latter was “for demonstrating on a large scale how drylands can be greened at minimal cost, improving the livelihoods of millions of people.” The Award went on to say, “What Rinaudo has created is much more than an agricultural technique, he has inspired a farmer-led movement.” So “what would be possible if all stakeholders—donors, scientists, governments, policy makers, business, NGOs, traditional and religious leaders and farmers—partnered and were serious about land restoration? Technically, there is no reason why simultaneously 5 million hectares of land could not be restored in multiple countries within five years.” Title slide: Tony Rinaudo (pic: Silas Kosh). You’ll find some other photos on the website , including the very moment Tony had his epiphany. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: FMNR Hub . The Forest Maker book . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding al
Bonus · Mon, June 22, 2020
63 Extract. Good Root Systems: Supermarkets, true costs & moving up the tailpipe
This is an extract from the end of my conversation with Open Food Network co-founder, Kirsten Larsen, featuring the story of her personal transformation, and how to get more involved with regenerative food systems. It starts, though, with the story supermarkets trade off – the story of efficiency, economies of scale, and cheap food. And increasingly, to their credit, a story of greening – getting better with waste, for example. But the model is still seeing the costs of cheap food being borne by farmers, landscapes, and public health. How it works is extremely opaque. And when crisis hits, supply chains have shown themselves to be highly vulnerable. In the end, this is a price we all pay. So what’s the new story? One that doesn’t play off farmers and landscapes against vulnerable eaters reliant on low cost food? One whose supply chains don't fall in a heap when we need them most? And one that ultimately generates more equitable, effective and regenerative distribution systems? Title slide photo: Network co-founders Serenity Hill (left) and Kirsten Larsen (right) with their two children; supplied. Get more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in episode 63, Food Unincorporated: How a grass roots system went global, with Open Food Network co-founder Kirsten Larsen - https://www.regennarration.com/episodes/063-food-unincorporated Thanks to you, our generous supporters, for making this podcast possible. If you too value what you hear, and you have the capacity at this time, please consider joining them, by heading to our website at https://www.regennarration.com/support . Thanks for helping to keep the show going. Get in touch any time by text or audio at https://www.regennarration.com/story Thanks for listening! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the <a href
S4 E63 · Wed, June 17, 2020
63. Food Unincorporated: How a grass-roots food system went global, with co-founder Kirsten Larsen
Kirsten Larsen is co-founder with partner Serenity Hill of the Open Food Network. It’s a not-for-profit, global collaboration building food distribution systems that are fair, local and transparent. The Network’s flagship open source platform had been successfully enabling ethical food distribution in multiple countries. Now, in the wake of COVID-19, it has gone to a whole new level, as producers look for alternative ways to sell quality produce, and eaters look for alternative ways to access it. The Network reports a tenfold increase in people signing up to the platform, and a tenfold increase in turnover. This grass roots initiative now spans 13 countries, and continues to grow. As the greeting on the Open Food Network website puts it: Food Unincorporated - sometimes the best way to fix the system is to start a new one. Kirsten is a farmer herself, and an Honorary Fellow at the Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute, at the University of Melbourne. She sees her work as focused on the complex challenges of sustainability and resilient food systems, and on the design and implementation of responses that also support healthy communities and regional economic development. Kirsten was kind enough to join me online from her home in Violet Town, Victoria, Australia. Title slide: from the Shepparton News (pic: Megan Fisher). Recorded on Friday 12 June 2020. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Open Food Network. Moving Feast. The international award the Network won. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennarration.buzzsprout.com/2091922/supporter
Bonus · Wed, June 10, 2020
62 Extract 2. The Universal Adoption of Regenerative Practices this Decade, with Zach Bush MD
The only thing limiting the future is the past.” – Zach Bush MD This is a second extract from the end of my conversation with globally renowned physician, Zach Bush MD, picking up from where the previous extract on glyphosate left off. Zach has been startled by our regenerative capacity, since his film Farmer’s Footprint became a global phenomenon. Now the broader project is about to launch - Project Biome. Its mission? No less than the universal adoption of regenerative agricultural, medical and related systems around the world. The first half of this extract explores how it’s to be done, and the second half features some of Zach’s personal reflections on how he keeps at it, and how we can all be a part of it. Title slide photo: Leia Vita, supplied. Music: Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode 62, Launching Project Biome: A changing paradigm of human and planetary health, with Zach Bush MD. Non-toxic Neighborhoods. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, June 08, 2020
62 Extract. Glypho-Gate: Glyphosate & the fraying fabric of life on Earth, with Zach Bush MD
“Glyphosate acts as a gateway chemical to all the rest.” – Zach Bush MD This is an extract from my conversation with globally renowned physician, Zach Bush MD, on the notorious and ubiquitous chemical, glyphosate (found in the common herbicide RoundUp). When I first heard Dr Zach Bush talk about the extent of the damage that the chemical glyphosate is doing to the biological underpinnings of life on Earth, it sank in me like a stone. Zach charts a bit of the chemical’s history here, we share a very personal conversation on its neurological impacts, and examine the patterns those impacts share with other chronic diseases. Then, of course, we explore the way out of this catastrophe – nature’s invitation to co-create the return of human and planetary health. More on this topic, from the show notes of the main episode 62: Dr Zach Bush’s work charts the intimate, absolute connection between humans and humous – the earth and its soil. The soil and our gut are sisters, you could say, and carbon is our best mate. And while we flirt with superbugs and the ‘end of antibiotics’, we are courting what may even be greater disaster with the chemical glyphosate. Glyphosate’s touted strength of being water soluble appears to be proving the undoing of no less than the integrity of our physiological being – implicated in our epidemics of cancer, auto-immune issues and neurological conditions. Title slide photo: by Leia Vita, supplied. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in episode 62, Launching Project Biome: A changing paradigm of human and planetary health, with Zach Bush MD. You can also hear what regenerative farmer and best-selling author Charles Massy AO had to say about glyphosate , in the extra to our conversation for episode 32, Cultivating Regeneration from Industrial Wastelands. It also comes up in my conversation with SBS TV’s Gourmet Farmer, Matthew Evans , for episode 60, when talking about fake meat. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by h
Bonus · Thu, June 04, 2020
62 Extra 2. The Poet Doctor: A meandering path to medicine, with Zach Bush MD
Here’s another little extra to my conversation with globally renowned physician, Zach Bush MD. We chatted a while longer, after our ‘formal’ podcast conversation had ended, about our respective paths in life. These few minutes inform so much about who Zach is today, so I ended up asking if he’d mind me sharing them here. With his kind permission, then, here’s a snapshot of Zach’s meandering path to medicine, through magical realism, traumatic awakenings, and deep grace. If you’ve come to this extra first, head over to the main episode 62 to hear the rest of my conversation with Zach Bush MD (link below). Title slide photo: supplied. Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp Find more: Listen to the main episode 62, Launching Project Biome: A changing paradigm of human and planetary health, with Zach Bush MD. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, June 01, 2020
62 Extra. More Poisoning than Infection: A further look at COVID-19, with Zach Bush MD
In this special extra to episode 62 with globally renowned physician, Zach Bush MD, we continue to delve into the coronavirus pandemic, through the lens of the microbiome. Zach has found that when you map soil degradation, air pollution and other toxicity over viral outbreaks, the coronavirus starts to look more like a poisoning than an infection. If you’ve come to this special extra first, head over to the main episode 62 to hear the rest of my conversation with Zach Bush MD (link below). Find more: Listen to the main episode 62, Launching Project Biome: A changing paradigm of human and planetary health, with Zach Bush MD. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E62 · Mon, June 01, 2020
62. Launching Project Biome: A changing paradigm of human & planetary health, with Zach Bush MD
Zach Bush MD is a renowned, triple board certified physician, and internationally recognized educator on the microbiome, as it relates to human health, soil health, food systems, and a regenerative future. Dr Zach became highly decorated in the medical field, with multiple awards. Then a growing set of insights built towards a moment of transformation. His touchstone insight was that we don’t need to solve each of the many increasingly prevalent diseases – we need to regenerate the source of our health and vitality. This led to ground breaking research on how our microbiome (a community of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses) works - or more to the point, how communication happens between the microbiome and our human cells. Zach has said the microbiome is more responsible for our health than our genes, and is actually the great coordinating force of biology on earth. And that we’re destroying it, with our dominant agricultural and medical systems. Zach’s work charts the intimate, absolute connection between humans and humous – the earth and its soil. The soil and our gut are sisters, you could say, and carbon is our best mate. And while we flirt with superbugs and the ‘end of antibiotics’, we are courting what may even be greater disaster with the chemical glyphosate. Glyphosate’s touted strength of being water soluble appears to be proving the undoing of no less than the integrity of our physiological being – implicated in our epidemics of cancer, auto-immune issues and neurological conditions. In response to all this, Zach has also been startled by our regenerative capacity and what he calls the intelligence of nature, since embarking on a film project called Farmer’s Footprint. This has become a global phenomenon, prompting the creation of a broader project called Project Biome. This is due to launch in a couple of months. Its mission? No less than the universal adoption of regenerative agricultural, medical and related systems around the world. To talk about all this, Zach was kind enough to join me online from his home in Hawai’i. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Interlude and concluding music by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Listen to the special extra to this episode , More Poisoning than Infection: A further look at COVID-19 with Zach Bush MD. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them.
Bonus · Wed, May 27, 2020
61 Extract 3. An Evolving Movement & Consciousness, with global advisor Hunter Lovins
I feel compelled to post one last extract from the very end of my conversation with the legendary Hunter Lovins - for those who might prefer to listen in ‘chapters’, for those who might not have made it all the way through on first listening, and for those who might be particularly interested in the themes covered here. And because I’m still deeply moved by how our conversation culminated. This extract segues directly from extract 2, where Hunter left off talking about trying to figure out how the rest of the world recovers from COVID-19. We explore her brilliant stories and current views of the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, Wellbeing Governments Coalition, Regenerative Communities Network, the Club of Rome, Doughnut Economics Action Lab, and how Dana Meadows’ famous piece ‘Places to Intervene in a System’ was born. Title slide: Hunter Lovins, sourced here . Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Listen to our conversation in full (and access links in the show notes) wherever you get your podcasts, or on our website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Mon, May 25, 2020
61 Extract 2. How the Regenerative Economy is Becoming Mainstream, with global advisor Hunter Lovins
This is a second brief extract from towards the end of my conversation with the legendary Hunter Lovins. It opens by looking at the tectonic shift that is apparently underway in the capital flows that will back in regenerative economies. Where banks are already looking at the stranded fossil fuel assets they’re reclaiming and wondering what to do with them. And where the opportunities on the other side of the ledger grow. I heard Hunter say not long ago that the regenerative economy was already bigger than the extractive one in her home state of Colorado. But that nobody knows. So we talk about how they found out, how they engaged with 90% of the economy on it, and where else this might be true. Along with what to look out for. So much has changed in just the last couple of months, in the world at large and in Hunter’s thinking. “Things are shifting,” she says. And “you can see the shape of the future.” Title slide: Hunter Lovins, sourced here . Find more: Listen to our conversation in full (and access links in the show notes) wherever you get your podcasts, or on our website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Fri, May 22, 2020
61 Extract. What if We Did This Worldwide? With best-selling author & advisor, Hunter Lovins
"We can roll back climate change." - L. Hunter Lovins This is a brief extract from episode 61 with the legendary Hunter Lovins, on the importance of the bio-regional scale – place and community - in creating regenerative economies. Especially now. There are a couple of great stories in this short clip, including more of her own - starting here with how she recently took out the Humungous Fungus Award. Title slide: Hunter Lovins, by West Coast Green sourced here . Find more: Listen to our conversation in full (and access links in the show notes) wherever you get your podcasts, or on our website. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E61 · Mon, May 18, 2020
61. We’re Gonna Reinvent Everything, with legendary author, educator & rancher, L. Hunter Lovins
Hunter Lovins has been a highly influential figure for many decades in the regenerative economies movement. She’s a best-selling author, including of the seminal Natural Capitalism, with Paul Hawken and Amory Lovins. She’s also founder and President of Natural Capitalism Solutions, founding Professor of Sustainable Management at the Bard MBA, a pioneering rancher, and Chief of Impact at Change Finance. Hunter consults for companies and countries around the world, has been named Millennium TIME Magazine Hero of the Planet, and was awarded the 2008 Sustainability Pioneer Prize by the European financial community for her decades of pioneering work. I could go on. Oh, she also recently took out the Humungous Fungus Award – and we will talk about that! I heard Hunter say not long ago, before the pandemic, that her research suggests the regenerative economy is already bigger than the extractive one in her home state of Colorado. But that nobody knows. So I asked Hunter if she’d join me to talk about it, along with how things are changing right now, and of course some of her brilliant life story. Like my other extensive conversations with legendary figures in this space, like Hazel Henderson and Paul Hawken, this one drifted into ever more meaningful and heart felt exchanges as we went. Our conversation includes why she ditched being a lawyer and accidentally became a regenerative rancher, her retrospective view on change and approaches to it over the decades (spoiler alert – where were the stories?), and the growing number of calls she’s receiving asking how to build a regenerative economy out of the COVID collapse. And on that, so much of her thinking, she says, has changed in just the last couple of months. We’re up against it, but we can still make something good of this situation, Hunter believes. Tectonic shifts are upon us. So where and how do we go from here? This episode was recorded online on 7 May 2020. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Hunter’s organisation, Natural Capitalism Solutions. Her most recent book ‘A Finer Future: Creating an economy in service to life’. John Fullerton’s 8 principles (or qualities, as he’s curr Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Bonus · Mon, May 11, 2020
60 Extract. How to Feed the World (Well): With host of SBS TV's ‘Gourmet Farmer’, Matthew Evans
This is a brief extract from the end of episode 60 with Matthew Evans, exploring a vision for how we can feed the world (well), in a way that regenerates communities, economies and the planet as a whole. All the more, how we can do it by building on the foundation of where most food is currently produced. Matthew is a farmer and chef at Fat Pig Farm, host of the popular TV series Gourmet Farmer, and most recently the author of ‘On Eating Meat – the truth about its production, and the ethics of eating it’. Title slide: Matthew Evans, from the publisher’s website. Find more: Listen to our conversation in full wherever you get your podcasts, or on our website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E60 · Mon, May 04, 2020
60. On Eating Meat: A regenerative systems view, with ‘Gourmet Farmer’, chef & author, Matthew Evans
Matthew Evans is a chef, farmer, host of the popular TV series 'Gourmet Farmer', and most recently the author of ‘On Eating Meat – the truth about its production, and the ethics of eating it’. The publisher calls it ‘A scorching manifesto on the ethics of eating meat by the best placed person to write about it.’ This is a book and conversation that I’ve so been wanting to have. Whether you’re a meat eater, vegan or somewhere in between, this will change how you see things. And if Matthew has his way – and I hope he does – it’ll open up vast new possibilities for constructive dialogue, and truly vital systemic change. Personally, I’ve been a meat eater, vegetarian, vegan, and now a meat eater again – but in a much different way than before. If you’ve been listening to this podcast for a while, you’ll be across some of my journey. The matter of meat is massive, when it comes to the health of people, other animals, and the planet as a whole. Our summer fires here, and COVID-19 everywhere, bring that home even more. In that context, I felt compelled to allocate plenty of time to this one. I hope you find this time worth your while too. Ordinarily, of course, I would love to have met up with Matthew in person on the Farm - it’s always so much more vivid when the place gets to speak too. But we’re blessed nonetheless to be able to connect online, across closed borders. This episode was recorded online on 14 April 2020. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Fat Pig Farm. The book ‘On Eating Meat: The truth about its production and the ethics of eating it’. For the Love of Meat documentary TV series (& more). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscribe
Bonus · Thu, April 30, 2020
59 Extract 2. A closing word on stories, new models & regenerating our places, with Dr Eduard Müller
This is a second brief extract, this time from the end of episode 59 with Dr Eduard Müller. Eduard is the founder of the University for International Cooperation, now at the heart of Regenerate Costa Rica. These closing words from Eduard were so resounding and impactful, they seemed worth sharing in their own discrete package. I've received a number of comments from people strongly moved by this conversation. Thanks very much for sending your messages. It makes this all feel worthwhile. Title slide: The launch of the Regenerative Costa Rica Hub in 2018 (pic: supplied). Find more: You can listen to our conversation in full here. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Tue, April 28, 2020
59 Extract. How Regenerate Costa Rica is building global momentum, with Dr Eduard Müller
This is a brief extract from episode 59 with Dr Eduard Müller, founder of the University for International Cooperation, now at the heart of Regenerate Costa Rica. It features a part of our conversation that focused on how Regenerate Costa Rica is fast gathering steam, both with local stakeholders and global institutions and networks. Title slide: Rancho Margot, Costa Rica. Eduard describes it as a demonstrative site for true regeneration. It was a degraded cattle farm 14 years ago and now very rich in biodiversity while providing agriculture, tourism and education. The photo is of the pig farm under green roofs and lots of biodiversity around (pic: supplied). Find more: Listen to our conversation in full here. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E59 · Mon, April 20, 2020
59. Regenerate Costa Rica: How the spirit of Gaia is stirring, with Dr Eduard Müller
Dr. Eduard Müller is founding President and Rector of la Universidad para la Cooperación Internacional (the University for International Cooperation) in Costa Rica. Eduard was a vet, till a growing sense of responsibility for state of the world, prompted a change of course. He got involved in the sustainability movement of the late 1980s, and after the pivotal Rio Summit in 1992, he went on to found the university. It now has thousands of graduates all over the world in regenerative development. And out of that, has sprung Regenerate Costa Rica. Through collaborative work led by the University, Regenerate Costa Rica is working across bio-regions on site-based, holistic approaches to produce 3 key outcomes: high carbon capture in soils, increases in biodiversity, and improvements in human wellbeing. Regenerating land through natural and assisted processes is essential to this work, along with broader regeneration of the economy, politics and culture. And in the broader global agenda, they are part of the growing Regenerative Communities Network, hosted by the Capital Institute. All that harks back to my very first podcast guest, the founder of that Institute John Fullerton. The ultimate goal? Reverse the high risk associated with having trespassed a number of planetary boundaries, to assure the safe operating space for humanity. The early successes, willingness to change among farmers and ranchers, and the trajectory of the project and broader regenerative networks are wonderfully inspiring. Eduard has presented to organisations such as the World Meteorological Organization, the Latin American Parliament, the Parliamentary Confederation of the Americas, The Earth Charter, IUCN, national and provincial legislatures. And he has worked as a consultant for the World Bank, UN, IUCN, governments and various other organizations. This episode was recorded with Eduard at home in Costa Rica, on 25 March 2020. Title slide: supplied. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Regenerate Costa Rica. Regenerative Communities Network. Universidad para la Cooperación Internacional (the Univer Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S4 E58 · Tue, April 07, 2020
58. Home Is Where the Health Is: The successes, needs & potential of co-op housing – with live panel
“If, like us, you’re currently steeped in long days of homebound self-isolation, take a look around your dwelling and observe a moment of gratitude. The more topsy-turvy the world outside becomes, the more we can see the importance of a stable place to live, and that housing and health are often the same thing.” - Reasons to be Cheerful article ‘Why Hospitals are Building Housing’. Around the world, co-ops are playing a significant role in providing housing solutions, and in the process building empowered, sustainable and healthy communities. Up to 40% of housing in some cities around the world is in coops. Whether you’re talking financial, social, environmental, cultural or health outcomes, the benefits across the whole of society can be enormous. So what are housing cooperatives? What are the main benefits and challenges? Why are they so successful in some parts of the world? And what’s needed to do more of them elsewhere? To talk about all this, I hosted a panel brought together from around Australia by Eugenie Stockmann. Eugenie is an award-winning developer, sustainability consultant, affiliate of an international network of cohousing professionals, and now CEO of Co-operation Housing. Joining her on the panel are: Dr Jasmine Palmer: researcher of collaborative housing and sustainable design, and a member of Urban Coup Cohousing Anthony Taylor: Policy Offer at the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals - the peak body and voice for Co-ops and Mutuals in Australia Michelle Mackenzie: CEO of Shelter WA - an independent peak body that advocates for social and affordable housing and ending homelessness Peter Shooter: Resident First Fremantle Housing Collective and Chair of Co-operation Housing With an impromptu appearance from Danielle Pender, Manager of the Community Housing Strategy at the State Department of Communities. It’s telling that here in Western Australia alone there are 9,000 homeless people and more than 14,000 on the social housing wait list. At the same time, so much of our housing is under-utilised and misdirected. For example, 82% of housing consists of 3 to 5 bedrooms, but 58% of WA homes house just 1 or 2 people. So how much housing do we need? How do we direct that need most effectively? And where will the investment for this come from? The event also launched a series of 5 short videos Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S4 E57 · Tue, March 24, 2020
57. Choosing a Better Normal Out of COVID-19, with global health systems expert Alanna Shaikh
Alanna Shaikh is a global health systems expert. She delivered a TEDx talk barely 2 weeks ago which has been viewed almost seven million times already across its TED & YouTube sites. On the latter it is titled ‘Coronavirus is our future’. But as much as outlining why that is so, a legacy of the human-induced planetary degradation that has brought COVID-19 upon us, it’s about how we can create a different future. How can we learn from the wake-up call of this outbreak, to create a more responsive and universal global health system? A system where, as Alanna puts it, equity is our social immune system. Bill Gates has written that such a health system will cost billions, and that’d be a bargain. The same can be said for the broader systems restoration project, where ecosystem restoration is key, and related systems of food, agriculture, economics, education and media all play vital roles. The coronavirus, and the future ones we’re currently headed for, are notably symptomatic of the same patterns underlying biodiversity loss, economic volatility and climate disruption. “Coronavirus is our climate crisis at high speed”, Alanna says. So we’ve got a moment here, while doing our belated but inspired best to withstand our current crisis, where we can get at the roots of it all, and re-orient our societies towards a new and better normal. Title slide: from TEDxSMU, by Kim Leeson. With thanks to our friends at the Wellbeing Economy Alliance for bringing Alanna's TEDx talk to our attention. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Alanna’s blog. Alanna’s consultancy. Coronavirus is our Future TEDx talk. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the <a href='
S4 E56 · Tue, March 10, 2020
56. Journalism, story-telling & running hard as you can: With award-winning journalist Jo Chandler
Jo Chandler is an award-winning Australian journalist, author, editor, and educator. She’s become perhaps Australia’s best and most recognised climate journalist, also authoring the awarded book on the topic, Feeling the Heat. Her most recent Walkley Award, Australia’s highest honour in journalism, was for her ongoing freelance work. Jo’s grappled with media and climate disruption on the front line, and shares powerful thoughts on the stories that need to be told, and how we can continue to tell them. Gutsy, moving and instructive, this is an insider’s view of a rapidly shifting media context, the great adventure story of climate science, and long-form freelance journalism as a means of reconnecting us with real news, and the people who make it. Is this art of story-telling still an effective way to contextualise, personalise and build trust – in science, the living world, and even each other? And if so, how do we best keep doing it? Anthony met Jo for this conversation at the State Theatre Centre in Perth late last year, during the Quantum Words Festival. Title slide: Jo Chandler, sourced from her website. With thanks to Quantum Words Festival, WritingWA, and the WA State Theatre Centre. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Concluding music by Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Jo’s website. Quantum Words Festival Perth. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop</
Bonus · Tue, February 25, 2020
55 Extra. The Western Australian Development Index, with Mike Salvaris
This special extra to episode 55 features Mike Salvaris continuing his Ministerial and cross-departmental presentation. We pick up with Mike as he moves from his authoritative global overview on the growing movement beyond GDP, to the nature and status of the proposal being made for a Western Australian Development Index. A reminder that a wonderful e-book of this presentation was also published last week, so while you don’t need to, if you would like to follow the visuals as you listen, you’ll find the link to a free download of the book below. Title slide: West Australian coastline (pic source ). Find more: Listen to the main episode 55 , Will this State Lead the Way Beyond GDP? A Ministerial presentation by Mike Salvaris. Australian National Development Index. The freely downloadable e-book of the presentation. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S4 E55 · Tue, February 25, 2020
55. Will this State Lead the Way Beyond GDP? A Ministerial presentation by Mike Salvaris
Mike Salvaris is a global leader in the development of measures that go beyond the gross inadequacies of Gross Domestic Product, to give us a better picture of our society’s wellbeing or genuine progress. That is, how we’re tracking against what we actually value most – like quality of life, trustworthy institutions, and the health of our families, communities and the rest of the living world. Mike has advised governments, co-founded the OECD Global Progress Research Network, and is Director of the Australian National Development Index (ANDI). You might recall him from episode 48 last year, where he joined the live conversation in Perth with Dr Katherine Trebeck, the UK-based author central to the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance. Mike was in town at the time for high level talks about the prospect of a pilot running of ANDI in Western Australia. A few months later, he was invited back to make the comprehensive case to Ministers and cross-departmental staff, with ANDI Ambassador and former Australian of the Year, Professor Fiona Stanley. What was presented that day was in many ways the collation of a life’s work – culminating in this prospect. You’ll hear the main part of the presentation here – a concise yet comprehensive overview of what the OECD has affirmed to be a growing global movement beyond GDP, and how ANDI offers Australia an opportunity to join in. There’s also a special extra to this episode pertaining directly to the proposal being made for Western Australia, complete with next steps. A wonderful e-book of this presentation was also published last week, so while you don’t need to, if you would like to follow the visuals as you listen, you’ll find the link to a free download of the book below. Title slide: cartoon by Australian National Living Treasure, Michael Leunig, with which Mike opens his presentation. With thanks to the Minister David Templeman, Director General Duncan Ord and especially to Jodie Holbrook, Liz Toohey, Yvette Peterson and Carol Hodgen at the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. Thanks also to Gareth Andersen & Janith Lokuge for valued assistance with the recording. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Listen to the special extra to episode 55 on The Western Australian Development Index. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate
S4 E54 · Tue, February 18, 2020
54. Sport’s Role in Averting Climate Crisis: With Sports Environment Alliance ED, Dr Sheila Nguyen
As elite sport resumes amidst the pandemic, the Royal Commission into Australia’s summer fires continues. So it seemed a good time to re-post this conversation with Dr Sheila Nguyen - to celebrate the return of top level sport, and to remember the rest of what sport can and needs to be in these times. This Black Summer in Australia saw a national T20 cricket match cancelled due to smoke, international tennis players choking on the pollution, and sports facilities burned down around the country. A few weeks ago, Australia’s Federal Opposition leader Anthony Albanese tweeted: “It’s Australian Open time. The eyes of the world are on us. The world is seeing air so toxic that players are collapsing and others are needing medical treatment. We can’t just sit by and accept this as the new normal. We need climate action – now.” Leaving aside the apparent contradictions in some of Mr Albanese’s other statements, this one well reflects our reality. And while fundraising by elite sport for communities most directly affected by the fires has been brilliant, and sport has been such an effective advocate in other areas of cultural life, the climate and extinction crises continue to threaten the places we love, and the things we love doing, including sport. So what role can sport play in reversing the trajectory of these crises, and furthering regenerative change? Dr Sheila Nguyen has been working at bringing together sports from around the country over the last decade or so to explore just that. Sheila is co-founder and Executive Director of the Sports Environment Alliance. Its members range from the biggest clubs in the land, to the smallest - from the reigning Australian Rules premiers the Richmond Tigers Football Club, to the Swamp Rats cricket club, along with local governments and others with responsibilities around sport. It goes by the hashtag #noplanetnoplay. Sheila was among the 2019 Australian Financial Review Top 100 Women of Influence, and is about to head to London next month to co-chair and MC the UN’s Sport for Climate Action’s Sport Positive event at Wembley Stadium. But as a lonely, overweight daughter of Vietnamese refugees, none of this seemed likely. Until sport changed her life. Updates: Malcolm Speed finished his term as Chair of the Alliance soon after this conversation in January 2020. And the March Wembley event was postponed due to the COVID-19 shut-down. Title slide: The Sydney Cricket Ground covered in bushfire smoke in the summer of 2019-20 (AAP Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S4 E53 · Thu, February 13, 2020
53. Fire & Phoenix: A brief introduction to 2020
The summer here in Australia has been witnessed by people around the world, saddened and concerned as they’ve watched this country burn and be subsequently shrouded in heavy palls of smoke. This is a brief introduction to the new year of The RegenNarration, in reference and reverence to all that has happened, and what it means from here. Title slide: Firefighters struggle against the strong wind in an effort to secure nearby houses from bushfires near the town of Nowra in the Australian state of New South Wales, December 31, 2019 (pic: Saeed Khan/AFP/Getty - sourced from Insider.com ). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S3 E52 · Thu, December 12, 2019
#052 Regenerating Society Soundtrack 2019: Highlights from our guests in 2019
We’re signing off for the year with an episode of highlights from our brilliant array of guests throughout 2019. With sincere thanks for tuning in, continuing to share and rate the podcast, and of course for donating and supporting its production. It couldn’t happen without you. Thanks also for getting in touch throughout the year to share stories, questions and insights, and to tell us how much you’ve valued the podcast. It’s been great to see our listener numbers spike further this year, and even more fulfilling to hear how the stories are landing and what the podcast means to you. Thank you very much! Track list: Podcast Theme, featuring Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra (& a range of guests from the podcast’s first year in 2017) Albert Wiggan (ep 34) Stephen Jenkinson (ep 35) Mother Canoe, by Stephen Jenkinson and Gregory Hoskins (Stephen’s choice) Michael Shuman (ep 36) Nora Bateson (ep 37) Damon Gameau (ep 38) on Velvet’s Unicorn, by Bryony Marks from the ‘2040’ original motion picture soundtrack David McLean (ep 39) Emma Lee (ep 40) Douglas Rushkoff (ep 41) Karen O’Brien (ep 42) Darren Sharpe (ep 43) David Pollock (ep 44) Miriam Lyons, Ian Dunlop and Jan Owen AM (ep 45) on The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra Kate Raworth (ep 46) Economic Man vs Humanity a Puppet Rap Battle, a collaboration between Kate Raworth, puppet designer Emma Powel, and song-writer Simon Panrucker Amy (ep 47) Katherine Trebeck (ep 48) Frank Fisher (ep 50) Hazel Henderson (ep 49 & 50) What If? (Impact: The Musical), by Jacqueline Emerson and co. (Hazel’s choice) Jake Claro (ep 51) on Food, by Land of Milk and Honey. Due to licencing restrictions, most of our guests’ nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts. Title slide: Anthony introducing episode 48 live at The Platform in Perth (pic: Joni Sercombe). Find more: To access the full catalogue of episodes, head to our website or wherever you get your podcasts. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connec
S3 E51 · Thu, December 05, 2019
#051 Farm to Plate: Regenerating a state's economy through food, land & culture, with Jake Claro
Jake Claro is the Director of the Vermont Farm to Plate Program, widely regarded as the most comprehensive state-wide food system plan in the United States, and the only one with full government engagement. It is approaching the end of its first decade, and gearing up for the next, with a growing global reputation. The program takes a coordinated, long-term and collaborative approach with all parts of the food system - beyond a simple focus on agricultural output. Since 2010, and in the wake of the GFC, as so many communities and industries have struggled, the program has helped Vermont achieve enormous value – such as a rise in local food purchases of around 75%, 742 new businesses, over 6.5k new jobs in food-related industries, and a sharp reduction in the increasingly critical area of food insecurity. And that’s just the quantifiable stuff - all on the basis of improving the health of people and country. Jake himself is a recipient of the Rachel Carson award at the Bard Centre for Environmental Policy, sits on a multitude of boards, and shares the story here of his instructive beginnings in this work. Jake will be a special guest at the Food for Thought Festival in Albany, Western Australia, between the 19th and 23rd of March 2020. For that and other possible dates around Australia, stay tuned to our partners supporting the production of this episode - Community Food Events, the Food for Thought Festival, Sustain: the Australian Food Network, Commonland, and the Centre for Social Impact at UWA. Title slide: Jake Claro, Farm to Plate Director at the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund provides an update on the next 10 years of Vermont Farm to Plate, at the recent annual gathering (supplied). Music: Food, by Land of Milk & Honey. Concluding tune by Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Vermont Farm to Plate Program. Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund. Food for Thought Festival. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect w
S3 E50 · Mon, November 25, 2019
#050 Reclaiming Money, Media & Mind: Part 2 of the conversation with Hazel Henderson
Welcome to episode 50 of The RegenNarration podcast! Which also commemorates the 76th anniversary of the birth of pioneering Australian systems thinker, and the man who introduced Anthony to the work of Hazel Henderson, the late Professor Frank Fisher. Fittingly then, this dual milestone episode features part 2 of Anthony’s conversation with Hazel. Hazel and Anthony delve deeper here into 3 key systems – money, media & mind – including the growing momentum behind reclaiming media and the internet as ‘public square’, the powerful resurgence underway in public banking, and some brilliant and at times surprising ways we can think about opportunities for regeneration. More of Hazel’s story is interwoven throughout this conversation, including how being a concerned mother led to her becoming an activist, later evolving into one of the world’s most respected figures in this space. Title slide: Hazel Henderson (supplied). Music: What If? (Impact: the Musical), by Jacqueline Emerson & co. – watch the film clip . And for the free ebook version of The Purpose of Capital , by Jed Emerson, that the musical was inspired by. The acoustic tune accompanying this episode is by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Part 1 of Anthony's conversation with Hazel Henderson (with some additional links in the show notes). Note: Ecor’s website, mentioned by Hazel, is now www.ecorusa.com. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sha
S3 E49 · Tue, November 05, 2019
#049 Changing Paradigms Over a Lifetime, with the legendary Hazel Henderson (part 1)
Hazel Henderson is a legendary author, advisor and media producer. It’s very hard to overstate the influence Hazel has had, and continues to have, throughout nearly 60 years of public life. Hazel has written 10 books, including ‘Mapping the Global Transition to the Solar Age', been translated into 27 languages across hundreds of outlets globally, won a multitude of awards, is listed in the Who’s Who in the USA, the World, in Business and Finance, and in Science and Technology, is a member of the Club of Rome, has been named in the Post-Growth Institute’s (En)Rich List as a top 100 luminary inspiring global prosperity beyond financial wealth, and has been repeatedly honoured as one of the ‘Top 100 Thought Leaders in Trustworthy Business Behaviour’. We could go on! Along the way, Hazel’s collaborated with a host of systems thinking pioneers, had defining experiences with the UN and other global agencies, been a pioneering advocate for equitable and sustainable human development, and an influential advisor on socially responsible business and investment. In her 70s, she became founder and media producer at Ethical Markets Media, which is a certified B Corporation, producer of the “Transforming Finance” TV series, and publisher of the Green Transition Scoreboard. E.F. Schumacher, the revered author of ‘Small is Beautiful: A study of economics as if people mattered’, said Hazel’s writing has “more 'reality' than almost any other writings on societal problems I know.” Senator Edward Kennedy called her "a unique contemporary pioneer in the effort to humanize modern science and technology". This special episode with Hazel wandered across the personal and political, the heart felt and intellectual, the confronting and the thoroughly uplifting. Title slide: Hazel Henderson pictured in 1964 (supplied). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Concluding music by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Part 2 of my conversation with Hazel Henderson. Hazel’s website. Ethical Markets website. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a p
S3 E48 · Thu, October 24, 2019
#048 Arriving at a Wellbeing Economy: Live with Katherine Trebeck, Mike Salvaris & Carol Innes
Featuring UK-based Dr Katherine Trebeck, a central figure in the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance, and co-author of the new book ‘The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a grown up economy’. With special guests: Mike Salvaris, director of the Australian National Development Index, and global leader in the development of wellbeing measures; and Carol Innes, local Whadjak Noongar Traditional Owner and co-chair of Reconciliation WA, successfully engaging in shifting economic development frameworks locally. All in conversation with Anthony James. Recorded live in conversation with a full room at The Platform in Perth, a few days after the global climate strike and as the UN Climate Action Summit began. This event launched Katherine’s book, as part of a national tour around Australia in collaboration with the New Economy Network Australia. While everyday economics has assumed all growth is good, the richest countries already have plenty of wealth and resources — they have ‘arrived’. The Economics of Arrival urges us to move from enlarging the economy to improving it, exploring the benefits this could bring for all, and how it can be done. Importantly in this context, Aboriginal people in this country might well ask when they’ll have the opportunity to ‘arrive’. And with all we continue to learn about the sophistication of Aboriginal culture in Australia throughout millennia, what other narratives of ‘progress’ and development are available for us to share in? Hot on the heels of the Wellbeing Budget in New Zealand, just the latest in a raft of key developments around the world, we explore how we change systems, stories and measures, to transition to an economy geared towards shared quality of life, rather than sheer quantity of stuff.' Title slide pic: Joni Sercombe. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Listen to the special extra to this episode, How To Make It Happen? (live Q&A) For a 25% discount on Katherine’s book, ‘The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a grown-up economy’, enter the code ARRIVAL25 until 31 October 2019 on this website . Hear Katherine in conversation with Anthony on episode 29. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider j
Bonus · Thu, October 24, 2019
#048 Extra - How To Make It Happen? Live Q&A on Arriving at a Wellbeing Economy
This special extra to episode 48 features Katherine Trebeck, Mike Salvaris & Carol Innes, in live conversation with a full room at The Platform in Perth last month, launching Katherine’s new book ‘The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a grown up economy’. We pick up the conversation on the topic of power, before opening up to a brilliant dialogue with the audience, and a series of resounding closing sentiments from each speaker. We explore the Wellbeing Economy Governments alliance, some extraordinary outcomes from the work Carol has been involved in, and a host of other positive developments around the world. The questions are asked, how can a more widespread transition to wellbeing economies take place? To what extent are people just going ahead and doing it? What part might a universal basic income play? What about debt and money more broadly? And how do we go about democratic reinvention, both within our institutions, and in how we engage with each other in daily life? Title slide: Katherine Trebeck delivering her keynote address (pic: Anthony James). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Listen to the main episode 48, Arriving at Wellbeing Economy. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S3 E47 · Thu, October 10, 2019
#047 Strike, Summit & Song: What difference does it make?
The Global Climate Strike on the 20th of September saw upwards of four million people strike worldwide. A few hundred thousand of these were in Australia, including thousands of businesses and dozens of union groups, as adults were invited to join in and support the burgeoning student movement. It was all timed to lead in to the UN Climate Action Summit a few days later, where Greta and other young leaders also had a strong presence. This episode is dedicated to taking a look at this significant moment in time, and to getting some sense of the difference being made. You’ll hear a spread of voices from around Australia and the world, including Greta, a host of other impressive young people and some of their guest speakers at the strike, through to UN Chief António Guterres on what came out of the subsequent Summit. The film 2040 also screened at the Summit, so we’ll hear from award-winning director Damon Gameau about his impressions of the meet too. And while at the strike in Perth, Anthony spoke with a diverse range of adults around the margins of the march, asking what is moving them to step up, and how they are doing it. So here’s a look at these significant few days, some of the extraordinary context leading to it all, and the systemic and cultural changes starting to gear up. Title slide: the Perth climate strike (pic: Anthony James). Music: Far Away Castle, by Rae Howell & Sunwrae. The acoustic tune at the end of this episode is by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: School Strike 4 Climate Australia. Greta Thunberg: the speeches that helped spark a climate movement , from The Guardian News. Global climate strike: Millions take to the streets to save the world , from Channel 4 News. The Greta Thunberg HelpLine, from ABC's 7:30 Report. Alexandria Villaseñor, a 14 year old climate advocate: opening speech at the first meeting of UNICEF's Second Executive Board Regular Session. David Attenborough tells world leaders at COP 24 that the 'Continuation of civilisation is in your hands', from The Guardi Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all
S3 E46 · Thu, September 26, 2019
#046 Celebrating Doughnut Day! A Kate Raworth keynote on creating an economy for the 21st century
Kate Raworth’s internationally acclaimed idea of Doughnut Economics has been widely influential amongst sustainable development thinkers, progressive businesses and political activists, and she has presented it to audiences ranging from the UN General Assembly to the Occupy movement. The Guardian even named her as “one of the top ten tweeters on economic transformation”. And last Tuesday Kate tweeted pictures of the world’s first City Doughnut Day in Philadelphia, advising they are “plotting a tool so we can share it widely.” Kate’s best-selling book ‘Doughnut Economics: 7 ways to think like a 21st century economist’ continues to provide perhaps the most promising framework for achieving an economy fit for this century; along with the simple yet profound visual symbol and metaphor for going about the change in how we think and organise ourselves. So to celebrate Doughnut Day, and on the back of where our last episode left off, it seemed like a good time to feature Kate on this podcast again. All the more in light of our live conversation event the day before Doughnut Day, launching Katherine Trebeck’s ‘Economics of Arrival’, for which Kate wrote the foreword. It’s also a week out from the next National New Economy Network conference here in Perth, Australia, and it was at the 2nd of these national conferences where this 20-minute keynote address by Kate was given. It features Kate beaming in on the big screen with her customary power pack delivery, on how the economy has come to work the way it does, and how to reorient it towards what we need and want in an economy today. It’s followed by Q&A with the capacity audience of around 300 people at Brisbane’s South Bank, hosted by Network co-founder Dr Michelle Maloney. So how are we to create an economy that, in Kate’s words, is ‘distributive and regenerative by design’? And how can we become less concerned about the growth of our economy, and more concerned about improving it? Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Economic Man vs Humanity , a collaboration between Kate Raworth, puppet designer Emma Powel and song writer Simon Panrucker. Find more: Kate's website. Hear Kate in conversation with Anthony in episode 3. Kate and her Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Bonus · Thu, September 12, 2019
#045 Extra - Q&A on Economic Growth To Save the Planet?
This is a special extra to episode 45 with Jan Owen, Ian Dunlop and Miriam Lyons. Here’s the rest of the powerful conversation between our panellists and the capacity audience of 300 people at the 2016 National Sustainable Living Festival in Melbourne, Australia. Title slide pic: NASA, from the ABC website . Find more: Listen to the main episode. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S3 E45 · Thu, September 12, 2019
#045. Economic Growth To Save the Planet? Live panel event with Ian Dunlop, Miriam Lyons & Jan Owen AM
Economic growth is stagnating, hitting up against a range of limits. Last week’s news that GDP growth in Australia is at its lowest since the GFC, with interest rates already at an unprecedented low of 1% (they are negative in many places around the world), emphasises what is increasingly apparent to people around the world – the old model isn’t working, and it’s not coming back. So what’s the future of the growth-based system, and how do we transition to a new model of work, business and economics, while avoiding collapse? Around 300 people filled the Greenhouse in Melbourne, Australia, at the 2016 National Sustainable Living Festival, with a highly credentialed panel exploring these questions. While the conversation took place a few years ago, its relevance and importance only seem to heighten. You’ll hear from: Jan Owen AM, CEO of the Foundation for Young Australians, the Inaugural Australian Financial Review/Westpac Woman of Influence 2012, and former director for the Australian National Development Index (ANDI). Miriam Lyons, a campaigns director for the prominent progressive advocacy network GetUp!, co-author of Governomics, and previously the founding CEO of the Centre for Policy Development. Ian Dunlop, formerly an international oil, gas and coal industry executive, chairman of the Australian Coal Association and CEO of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is a director of Australia21 and a Member of the Club of Rome. Each panellist speaks for 10 minutes, leading off with a little story on how they came to do what they do. Then we’re into another powerful Q&A with the capacity audience (featuring in an extra to this episode). In the words of Ross Gittins, celebrated economics writer and Economics Editor at the Sydney Morning Herald: "The beginning of economic wisdom is to understand that the advanced economies – including ours – have stopped working the way they used to and won’t be returning to the old normal." So what is the future of the growth-based economic system? Especially in the context of planetary limits, resource constraints, rising inequality, increased automation, increasing mental illness, and worsening extinction and climate crises. What’s an economy even for? And how can we recreate it for the better, and quickly? Thanks to Chris Grose from Scout Films for this recording, and the team at the Understandascope who supported this event. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them
Bonus · Thu, August 22, 2019
#044 Extra - The back story, politics of change, and a ‘do-able plan’, with David Pollock
This special extra to podcast 44 delves further into the back story to Wooleen Station and the rangelands, and those questions around meat production and consumption. From there David and Anthony talk about the at times extraordinary politics at play, why we the public are central to all this, and above all, what Major General Michael Jeffery, the former Governor-General of Australia, calls David’s master class and do-able plan. Title slide: the Nationally Important Wooleen Lake (pic: Anthony James). Find more: Listen to the main episode with David. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S3 E44 · Thu, August 22, 2019
#044 The Wooleen Way: David Pollock on life, letting go & renewing our most vital resource
David Pollock is one of Australia’s most prominent regenerative pastoralists, and he’s now the author of a new book that’s been described as ‘The astonishing story of reviving the oldest land on Earth’. It’s called ‘The Wooleen Way: Renewing an Australian Resource’. Many Aussies will have seen David and his wife Frances on ABC TV’s Australian Story. They’ve appeared four times so far, such is the way their story has captivated the country. They’ve also been guests twice on this podcast. This time, though, is the first time in extended conversation with David, book in hand and on location at Wooleen Station. The Wooleen Way’ is hard-hitting, expertly researched, and a great tale, with a compelling and holistic outlook. On the back of Charles Massy’s book ‘Call of the Reed Warbler’, this may just prove to be the next critical milestone in the shift towards a regenerative culture of caring for country, and the communities that comprise it. Western Australia’s Minister for Regional Development, Alannah MacTiernan, has already visited Wooleen in the wake of the book, and distributed numerous copies among departmental staff. Which is all the more fitting, given pastoral leases operate on public land, and on so much of it (nearly half of WA alone). This is arguably our most vital renewable resource - the effective functioning of the vast majority of this country, and other regions like it. And we’re losing it. But it doesn’t have to be this way. ‘The Wooleen Way’ is, on the one hand, the story of David’s life and the remarkable regeneration happening at Wooleen Station. And it is about so much more than that. As David sees it, “If we can only get regeneration on Wooleen, then we’ll have failed.” Join David as he shows Anthony around the Station to talk about the book, his story, and some of the how and why behind the regeneration of a country. Title slide: Frances and David at Wooleen Station (supplied). Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The outgoing music is by Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Listen to the special extra to this episode with David. The new book ‘The Wooleen W Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S3 E43 · Wed, August 07, 2019
#043 Will the Real Sharing Economy Please Stand Up? With Darren Sharp, Lizette Salmon & Jose Ramos
The sharing economy is a phenomenon. But what is it exactly? The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says it “connects consumers to people who have products or services to sell, hire or lease via an online platform.” And “It includes services such as Airbnb and Uber.” But the folk at the heart of the sharing economy call that commerce – and in some cases, mere extensions of the current extractive economy that is driving us into multiple crises. Last year Anthony hosted the launch of a brilliant new book produced by Shareable. Shareable is an award-winning, non-profit, global hub of news, action and connection for the sharing transformation. It calls this transformation “a movement of movements, emerging from the grassroots, to solve today’s biggest challenges”, from poverty to global warming – the challenges that old, top-down institutions are failing to address. The book is called ‘Sharing Cities: Activating the Urban Commons’, a how-to guide showcasing over 100 sharing-related case studies and model policies from more than 80 cities. “From community composting to makerspaces, repair cafés and platform co-operatives, people are coming together in cities everywhere to develop solutions for the common good. They show that sharing can lead everyone to have more, together.” Leading off this conversation is the Australian editor of Shareable, Director of Social Surplus, and Research Fellow at the Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Darren Sharp, with a 10-minute keynote. Then we’re joined by special guests: Lizette Salmon, a pioneering figure in the Repair Café movement, founding coordinator of Albury-Wodonga’s popular Repair Café, and Coordinator of WATCH (Wodonga Albury Towards Climate Health). Dr Jose Ramos, co-founder of the Footscray Maker Lab, Director of Action Foresight, and fellow founding board member with Darren of the growing New Economy Network Australia. Their 5-minute responses are followed by audience Q&A, all taking place at the 2018 National Sustainable Living Festival. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: On Shareable and the book Sharing Cities , including how to purchase it or download a free PDF. On Darren Sharp. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you to
S3 E42 · Thu, July 25, 2019
#042 The Most Powerful Solution to Climate Change: Karen O’Brien on people, systems & consciousness
The first guest we ever had on this podcast, the former Wall St executive John Fullerton, made reference again this week to “John Elkington's product recall“ on a term he coined 25 years ago – ‘triple bottom line’. It reflects, he said, “the growing consensus that sustainability in business is not working. Instead, the chorus for systemic transformation is growing.” Our guest this week is Professor Karen O’Brien, and she has spent decades exploring and assisting people in just this. Karen is an internationally recognised thought leader on climate change impacts and social transformation. She has been heavily involved in the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (the IPCC), and shared in its 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. She’s also on the scientific advisory board for Project Drawdown, and is the co-founder and partner in cCHANGE, an Oslo-based company that has become a beacon in the space of social transformation. Karen’s work focuses on the relationships between personal, cultural, and systems transformations. She calls it exploring the most powerful solution to climate change – people! And she’s decidedly positive about it, pointing out that projections of the future too often exclude the understanding that people constitute the systems and stories we live by. We are the systems. And we have the ability to transform ourselves (read, not others) – deliberately, consciously, deeply. And in everyday life, wherever we are. Karen wrote an article a few years ago titled ‘Is it time for a quantum leap?’, on the emerging field of quantum social theory. And she sees her work on the ground with cCHANGE and cCHALLENGE bearing out the potential for just that. So how does conscious social transformation happen? How do we engage the highest leverage points? How do we take care of each other in the process? And can this really enable us to achieve the 1.5 degree Paris Agreement target? Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: On Karen. cChange. Her new book, 'Climate & Society: Transforming the Future', with Robin Leichenko. And her Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider
S3 E41 · Tue, July 09, 2019
#041 Playing for Team Human: All hands on deck for the Renaissance, with Douglas Rushkoff
Douglas Rushkoff has been recognised as one of the “world’s ten most influential intellectuals” by MIT. Many of you will know him from the popular Team Human podcast, which has led to this award-winning, best-selling author writing the Team Human book. And frankly, it’s a little masterpiece. Comprehensive, readable and vital, it’s a manifesto for reclaiming our humanity in the digital age. Walter Isaacson calls it “A provocative, exciting, and important rallying cry to reassert our human spirit of community and teamwork.” Douglas rose to public prominence in the early 1990s as he helped to shape the internet. He wrote a series of books during that time examining the intersection of technology and popular culture, in which he coined terms like ‘viral media’, ‘digital natives’, ‘screenagers’ and ‘social currency’. But after two decades of documenting the hi-tech counterculture, Douglas began to realise the mess we were getting in. His 2009 book and documentary, Life Inc., told the story of an economic and social collapse 500 years in the making. Now he offers us the Team Human manifesto, powerfully framed as a call to a human Renaissance - restoring what we scarcely realise we’ve lost from the last one. This, from the publisher’s blurb on the book: ‘Money, once a means of exchange, is now a means of exploitation; education, conceived as way to elevate the working class, has become another assembly line; and the internet has further divided us into increasingly atomized and radicalized groups. If we are to resist and survive these destructive forces, we must recognize that being human is a team sport. If we can find the others who understand this fundamental truth and reassert our humanity—together—we can make the world a better place to be human.’ Douglas joins Anthony online from his office in New York, for this personal exchange on his time in the theatre, his moment of personal enlightenment, how it led to his work with technology and the net, and on to the broader contexts of business, the economy, religion, the value (or otherwise) of stories, psychedelics and podcasts(!) - and ultimately, of course, how to be human in this time when it’s all hands on deck. Title slide image with thanks to the Team Human podcast. With thanks also to Bobbie Johnson for his 2009 piece in The Guardian on Douglas’ Life Inc. work , for some of the copy referenced here. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avo
S3 E40 · Tue, June 25, 2019
#040 Love-Bombing the Government: And how it transformed a state, with Dr Emma Lee
There are some extraordinary changes happening in Australia’s southern-most state, and Dr Emma Lee has been at the heart of it – literally and figuratively. Emma is an Indigenous trawlwulwuy woman from tebrakunna country, north-east Tasmania, and is a widely awarded scholar and community leader. The article Emma recently wrote for the ABC was titled, ‘We 'love-bombed' the Tasmanian government to win Indigenous rights.’ The list of changes achieved by Emma, her community and their government needs to be seen to be believed - from dual naming policies, to a whole of government strategy called Reset the Relationship, right through to constitutional change, and all achieved in just a few years, with a notionally conservative government in power, and in the state with perhaps the darkest history of Indigenous colonial experience. This conversation is a fascinating exploration of how it all happened, and why family, kinship and a regional approach is central to it. With this in mind, Emma has salient things to say about the implications for reconciliation and Treaty processes, the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and how to engage most meaningfully and successfully with Aboriginal communities. Well, perhaps any community. Emma’s is a fascinating story. She was one of the first Indigenous archaeologists in this country, but she came on hard times and ended up working at a petrol station, where her life was transformed. She went on to a PhD and this story of broader transformation. And she’s now on her way to helping establish an Indigenous cultural fisheries and food market in Tasmania, with Tasmanian and Australian Government support, as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact. News of Emma and what’s been happening in Tasmania lobbed into our orbit last week via our friends at Common Cause. It’s a growing story too, reminiscent of the approach taken in the recent successful ‘YES’ campaign for same-sex marriage in Australia, for example, powerfully transcending the adversarialism that underpins so much of our dominant cultural story. Emma joins Anthony online from Bilbao in Spain to talk about it. Title slide image: Rhiannon Shine, from the ABC article below. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, av
S3 E39 · Tue, June 11, 2019
#039 Stop Riding the Unicorn: Empowering the regenerative agriculture movement, with David McLean
If you followed our travels last year, you will have heard a number of remarkable stories of pastoralists and farmers bringing land and people back to life. In some cases, their situations had become dire, and land turned to dust. Wherever we went, an organisation called RCS Australia came up in conversation. So we visited them late last year in Yeppoon, Queensland, and had the pleasure to meet legendary founder Terry McCosker and his team. Charles Massy calls RCS one of the key training groups in Australia in regenerative agriculture and holistic grazing, including the business of it all, with “brilliant social learning programs and workshops, and a network of support.” When we visited, New Chair David McLean was there, and we got talking. After a number of fascinating conversations over several days, we subsequently resolved to meet up when he was next doing training in our neck of the woods. David’s journey with RCS started as a client. He went on to become General Manager in 2012 and Chair in 2018. He is now a highly sought-after educator, consultant, facilitator and public speaker across Australia. David’s got an invaluable over-arching view of what’s happening across Australia and the world in regenerative agriculture. His insights are extensive and instructive, on changes in the movement, on country, in families and communities, in the businesses, in impact investing, in increasingly volatile climate and other forces of change, and importantly in how the thinking about the connections between all these things is developing. When talking about such a holistic approach, and how it relates to life in cities as well, we arrive at themes of trust and connection. Why is trust so central to building the movement? What does success look like? What do we do about the potential co-opting of the term regenerative? Why is ‘going organic’ not enough? How can the most meaningful investments and impacts be made? How do we respond to at times diabolical drought, fire and flood? And how do we loosen the hold our cultural stories have on us, to stop riding the unicorn, as David puts it, and operate in a way that’s more aligned with the realities of how the living world works? When in Perth recently, David dropped by Anthony’s place for this conversation. Title slide: wheat growing in Moura, Central Queensland (pic: David McLean). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played o Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly,
S3 E38 · Tue, May 28, 2019
#038 A Regeneration Movement: Q&A at the premiere of 2040, with Damon Gameau & Julie Leslie
Damon Gameau has received multiple standing ovations around the world as he has accompanied the premiere screenings of his visionary documentary film ‘2040’. You might remember our first conversation on this podcast last year, as the film was being finished. This time we’re joined by a wonderfully engaged cinema audience, and special guest Julie Leslie, the impressive editor of Circular Style – a magazine about sustainable, conscious, and circular fashion. What resulted was a fascinating sense of how the film is landing with people - the questions raised and inspiration felt. And some additional stories that aren’t in the film, like the instructive story behind how the board game Monopoly used to be played, Damon’s visit to the Gross National Happiness Centre in Bhutan, what regenerative fashion might look like, and what the growing movement behind 2040 is up to. Anthony starts the conversation by asking the audience a bit about themselves. Only about half the people considered themselves very engaged with themes of sustainability or regeneration, but just about all were very concerned about the future - though interestingly, one person wasn’t concerned at all (you’ll hear him join the conversation in this episode). Most tellingly, only a couple of people had ever thought about the sort of positive vision for the future outlined in the film. It emphasises the enormous value of this documentary. 2040, and these conversations, are envisioning new, more aspirational stories to live by, and exploring the changes we can make together that just might bring them about. Anthony hosts Damon and Julie in conversation at the Perth premiere of 2040. With thanks to Adriana Begovich from Anarchy PR. Note: On Anthony’s mention of the book Empire of Things, Frank Trentmann reports one third of the items in the average British wardrobe is never worn. Music: 'Velvet's Unicorn' and 'Future', by Bryony Marks off the 2040 Soundtrack. Find more: The 2040 film website , including how to see it or screen it yourself, the book release, and how to get more involved. Circular Style Magazine (and Julie's Shopportunity Knocks tours). Anthony & Damon in conversation last year for episode 30 , 2040 Vision: Climate change, fear & loathing. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all
S3 E37 · Tue, May 21, 2019
#037 Solve Everything at Once: Nora Bateson on systems thinking, warm data & singing out loud
Nora Bateson is an award-winning filmmaker, writer and educator. She wrote, directed and produced the beautiful documentary, ‘An Ecology of Mind: A daughter’s portrait of Gregory Bateson’ - perhaps the world’s most renowned pioneer of systems thinking. And she has most recently developed the vital concept of ‘warm data’ – breathing life back into the deeply problematic phenomenon of ‘big data’. In a recent conversation with Douglas Rushkoff on the Team Human podcast, Nora said we need to solve everything at once. Incremental change just doesn’t cut it. Anthony and Nora talk about this idea further here. What does systems thinking offer us with regards to changing our lives and institutions in such a transformative way? And how do we do it? Nora has summed up her work by saying that she re-frames ecology and society by playing with possible shifts in perception, embracing complexity and increasing tenderness. “Given that all of the situations that we need to face now are complex - climate change, culture change, economic volatility, all kinds of mental illness … - all of those things require an understanding of complexity to address.” How does Nora’s work on ‘warm data’ address all this? How is it going in the growing number of organisations inviting her presence? How do we live our daily lives with this in mind? And what does improvisation have to do with it? Nora visited Australia for the first time earlier this year, and spoke with Anthony in Perth. With thanks to Peter Le Breton and Daryl Taylor. Music: Let Them Know, by Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Nora blogs here . Nora tweets here . The International Bateson Institute . The film ‘An Ecology of Mind: A daughter’s portrait of Gregory Bateson’ . Watch the film here . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become
S3 E36 · Thu, May 09, 2019
#036 Local is the New Black: The new economics of place, with Michael Shuman
Michael Shuman is an economist, lawyer, author, entrepreneur, and globally recognised expert on community economics. He is also one of the architects of the crowdfunding reforms that became the “JOBS Act,” signed into law by President Obama in April 2012. Michael is re-writing the story of business and development, to one that makes much more sense if your interest is in creating more prosperous, equitable and regenerative societies. It all revolves around local business. And moving away from the ‘protectionism’ inherent in the massive public subsidies that often prop up large transnational companies. A dollar spent in local business, Michael argues, compared to a dollar spent in non-local business, generates on average 2-4 times the income, jobs, and other positive knock on effects. Observations like these, and the stories of communities and cities putting this into action, have only become more compelling since his 2006 book ‘The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses Are Beating the Global Competition’. Michael and Anthony talk here about some of his life’s work and observations – what’s changed, what still needs to change, and how do we go about that change? How do we get global finance to go to more of the right places, how do we grow where there really are no limits, and what is the sort of economy that can bring about what we’re really after in life? Michael conducted a workshop at local Perth landmark, City Farm, in February. We caught up during the lunch break for this conversation. Music: Let Them Know, by Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. And the acoustic tune accompanying the introduction is by Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Michael’s website , which includes info on Michael’s most recent book, published by Chelsea Green – ‘Local Dollars, Local Sense: How to Move Your Money from Wall Street to Main Street and Achieve Real Prosperity'. With thanks to Gilbert and Village Well for having me along to City Farm for the day. For more on Village Well, and its Place School, visit their website . And for the story of the first social enterprise in Australia to successfully engage the new equity crowd funding laws, raising more than $2m, Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, pleas
S3 E35 · Tue, April 23, 2019
#035 Come of Age: The case for elderhood in a time of trouble, with author Stephen Jenkinson
Welcome to episode 35 of this podcast, the first since we changed name from Rescope Radio to The RegenNarration. We’re launching with this special conversation featuring Stephen Jenkinson, an internationally distinguished culture activist, teacher, ceremonialist, author and farmer. He’s currently touring with his new book 'Come of Age: The Case for Elderhood in a Time of Trouble'. Eldership is such a vital part of human life – of human cultures – and lost to our peril. It’s been a recurring theme on this podcast, since the very first episode with John Fullerton. 'Come of Age' is said to make the case that we must birth a new generation of elders, one poised and willing to be true stewards of the planet and its species. Stephen shares a range of eloquent insights here, on what this might mean for both the older folk among us, and the young. Where do we find wisdom, a joy that isn’t sought as distraction, and an embrace of limits as inherent to our humanness? The conversation explores a number of particularly moving encounters in Stephen’s life, and what they taught him about such ‘humanness’, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence, death-defying potions, and anxiety and despair about the world and what we’re doing in it. It all culminates with an extended music production from the last time Stephen was in Australia. Stephen joins Anthony online from his farm in the Ottawa Valley, with the river ice thawing. Music: Mother Canoe, by Stephen Jenkinson & Gregory Hoskins, from the Nights of Grief & Mystery album. The acoustic tune accompanying this episode is by Jeremiah Johnson. Find more: Orphan Wisdom features more on Stephen, including the full range of upcoming events, starting Friday 26 April 2019 at The School of Life in Melbourne. A special week-long master class will be run from 6 May on North Stradbroke Island. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber t
Trailer · Wed, April 17, 2019
We're Changing Name - from Rescope Radio to The RegenNarration
Today we have a special announcement. The Rescope Radio podcast is about to sprout into an independent production called The RegenNarration. Over the last year in particular, the podcast has found an increasing number of you listening, supporting and corresponding about how much you’ve been appreciating the conversations. So we’re going to dedicate more time to the podcast this year, as it becomes an independent venture, and hope you’ll join us on the journey. To do that, of course, simply follow the podcast. If you’ve already followed us, you’ll keep receiving episodes as you always have. Just with a new name and look. So why this name? Anthony introduces it here, along with a little background, in this brief announcement episode. Stay tuned next week for episode 35, the first with the new name. And as ever, the podcast remains a listener and worker supported endeavour. So please continue to donate where you can, and we’ll offer opportunities to become a subscribing patron or partner of the podcast too. For now, thanks as always for your generous support, thoughtful messages and gracious listening. See you next week! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Tue, March 05, 2019
#034 Extra - That Common Ground: Q&A after the film with Albert Wiggan & Narelda Jacobs
Feel the energy in the room with this special extra, as we hear Albert in a Q&A session after the West Australian premiere screening of ‘Undermined: Tales from the Kimberley’. The session was hosted by Narelda Jacobs, local Noongar woman and the first Aboriginal female newsreader to anchor a leading commercial station’s news service in Australia. Albert talks further here about what the Kimberley means to him, how people can get involved in creating the dialogue he’s inviting, and how he feels about one of the most profoundly moving parts of the film. We hear from a number of elders featured in the film too, who’d also made their way to Perth to be in the audience for the premiere. Title slide image credit: Bodhan Warchomij. Find more: Listen to the main episode 34, Undermined : Award-winning documentary from the Kimberley, with Aboriginal leader Albert Wiggan. (You'll find a range of links in the show notes there too.) Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S3 E34 · Tue, March 05, 2019
#034 Undermined: Award-winning documentary from the Kimberley, with Aboriginal leader Albert Wiggan
Listeners last year might remember our series produced on location in the spectacular Kimberley region of Western Australia. This year, the Kimberley is coming to us – through an award-winning documentary film that premiered nationwide in February. It’s called Undermined: Tales from the Kimberley. Australia’s vast Kimberley region is under threat, with the ‘old industrial’ model of mining, pastoralism and irrigated agriculture driving an unprecedented land grab. The film investigates the politics of an area now forebodingly branded ‘the future economic powerhouse of Australia’, including what this means for the country’s First People and their unique cultural landscapes. The world premiere sold out all screenings at the Melbourne International Film Festival in late 2018, and it’s been cleaning up awards at film festivals around the country since. Young Aboriginal leader Albert Wiggan is a key protagonist and co-producer of the film. He’s also an Indigenous Ranger, sits on a number of boards including the Kimberley Land Council, and is a world class musician who has toured with the likes of John Butler. In this watershed moment, he sees opportunity for a ‘meaningful conversation’ about a future that is more fitting for the Kimberley, and beyond. Anthony caught up with Albert just after he’d introduced the West Australian premiere to a full house in Perth. Music: Let Them Know, by Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Listen to the special Extra for this episode , featuring Q&A with Albert after the premiere screening. On the film. On Albert. Get involved. You can also listen to last year’s series on location in the Kimberley - episodes 21, 22 and 25. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Pat
S2 E33 · Thu, December 13, 2018
#033 Regenerating Society Soundtrack 2018: Highlights from our guests in 2018
We’re signing off for the year with an episode of highlights from our wonderful array of guests throughout 2018. With sincere thanks for tuning in, continuing to share and rate the podcast, and of course for donating and supporting its production. It couldn’t happen without you. Thanks also for getting in touch throughout the year to tell us how much you’ve valued the podcast, and what you’d like to hear in future. It’s been great to see our listener numbers spike this year, and even more fulfilling to hear how the stories are landing and what the podcast means to you. Thank you very much! Have a wonderful festive season and we hope to join you again for a regenerative new year. Track list: 2018 Theme, featuring Let Them Know, by Public Opinion Afro Orchestra (& a range of guests from 2017) Paul Hawken (ep 13), accompanied by Gone Clear, from the album Modern Country by William Tyler Frances Jones & David Pollock from Wooleen Station (ep 16), recorded live in Melbourne Tim Winton (ep 17), with ocean sounds at Ningaloo Reef Denise Fitch (ep 18) Evan Pensini (ep 19) Mary Crooks (ep 20) Dr Anne Poelina (ep 21) Song for the Mardoowarra, by Gwen Knox in collaboration with Anne Poelina, played by Mick Stevens, and sung by the Broome Primary School Choir Martin Pritchard (ep 22) Richard Heinberg (ep 23) Frank Fisher (ep 24) Chris Henggeler (eo 25) Jacqueline Henggeler (ep 25 Extra) Dr Mary Graham (ep 26) Moira Lanzarin (ep 27) Emma-Kate Rose (ep 28) Katherine Trebeck (ep 29) Damon Gameau (ep 30) Hugh Mackay (ep 31) Charles Massy (ep 32) Sounds of Severn Park (Charles’ farm) Back home by the Indian Ocean. Due to licencing restrictions, most of our guests' nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts. Title slide image: Anthony producing episode 16 at Wooleen Station, by the Murchison River in Western Australia (pic: Olivia Cheng). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can a
Bonus · Thu, December 06, 2018
#032 Extra - Cultivating Regeneration from Industrial Wastelands, with Charles Massy AO
In this special extra, Charles Massy lends a little more context to his work, including an exploration of the roots of the industrial agriculture system and its effects on people, land and the rest of the living world. Within that, the conversation pays particular attention to some of the astounding new developments around the notorious glyphosate-based herbicide RoundUp. It goes on to try to make more sense of why humankind has ended up where we are today, and of course how we can harness this understanding towards most effectively changing this dangerous trajectory. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: Listen to the main episode with Charles , An Underground Insurgency (you'll find links to more info there too). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E32 · Thu, December 06, 2018
#032 An Underground Insurgency: Regenerative Agriculture & Human Transformation, with Charles Massy
Charles Massy has become an extraordinary hub of knowledge, wisdom and stories of regeneration. Specifically in regenerative agriculture, and alongside that, the art of human transformation. His latest book 'Call of the Reed Warbler’ continues to make an enormous impact in Australia, and Charles has just embarked on an overseas tour behind the release of an updated international edition. Paul Hawken appears on the inside sleeve, saying this about the book: “Charles Massy has written a definitive masterpiece that takes its place along with the writings of Aldo Leopold, Wendell Berry, Masanobu Fukuoka, Humberto Maturana, and Michael Pollan. No work has more brilliantly defined regenerative agriculture and the breadth of its restorative impact upon human health, biodiversity, climate, and ecological intelligence.” Charles writes and talks about the growing repertory of stories of what are in some cases extraordinary tales of regeneration – including his own. He also takes a look behind that regeneration, at how change happens not just in the land, but in the landscape of our minds. Charles and Anthony pulled up a pew at the farm, Severn Park, a few weeks ago, for this conversation. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Tune into the special extra with Charles , Cultivating Regeneration from Industrial Wastelands. For more on Charles & Call of the Reed Warbler , see the original Australian edition . And the updated Chelsea Green international edition . An extract of this episode was published by the good folk at Matters Journal . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusi
S2 E31 · Tue, November 20, 2018
#031 Reimagining Society: A conversation with legendary social researcher Hugh Mackay
Hugh Mackay is Australia’s preeminent social researcher, and a prolific bestselling author. He has spent sixty years speaking with people in their homes and workplaces, reflecting back to us key insights about who we are – and why we are the way we are. So it’s fair to say he knows a thing or two about what we’re like, and by extension how we might best get ourselves through this time of significant transition. Hugh’s latest book is Australia Reimagined. And while focused on this country, it very much deals with global patterns and concerns. He takes the growing global epidemic of anxiety and depression as the touchstone of what we’re doing to each other, and the rest of the living world. And in turn, the touchstone of what we need to and can change. The publisher’s blurb on the book states that our ‘unprecedented run of economic growth has failed to deliver a more stable or harmonious society. Individualism is rampant. Income inequality is growing. Public education is under-resourced. The gender revolution is stalling. We no longer trust our major institutions or our political leaders. We are more socially fragmented, more anxious, more depressed, more overweight, more medicated, deeper in debt and increasingly addicted - whether to our digital devices, drugs, pornography or 'stuff'.’ But there is another story to tell, one that is responding to that trajectory, and that is powering Hugh’s optimism. It all starts in our streets, he says, and from there to the systems we live by, the stories we’re currently buying, and the ones we can create for ourselves. Hugh spoke with Anthony at his home in Canberra a few weeks ago. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: On Hugh & his latest book, Australia Reimagined : Towards a More Compassionate, Less Anxious Society. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by
S2 E30 · Wed, November 14, 2018
#030 2040 Vision: On climate change, fear & loathing, with Damon Gameau, maker of ‘That Sugar Film’
Paul Hawken describes Damon Gameau as an ‘extraordinary artist, visionary, storyteller, and craftsman of the future.’ Damon is the creator of That Sugar Film - the record-breaking, award-winning documentary that, through its extraordinary success, became That Sugar Movement. Damon’s now turned his attention to climate change, with his next film '2040' coming out next year. He met up with Anthony a few weeks ago just after 2040 had been completed. 2040 is described as an aspirational film about the possibility to make changes that will shift the course for future generations. It is a positive vision for the future, structured as an open letter to his young daughter, and again it is gearing up to be so much more than just a film. As with ‘Sugar’, this was a very personal journey - as someone who himself was shutting down on news about climate change. And also like ‘Sugar’, Damon found the appetite for this film was enormous. The money was raised for 2040 in just days. And millions more was raised for the outreach program, in mere minutes. Damon talks with Anthony about the film, how he’s found story-telling can reach people with these sorts of issues, and what that means for the possibility of positive change. He also talks about how his own life has changed, and what he’s learned in the process of creating these documentaries, and subsequently trying to keep up with the response. Tellingly, in creating what was nominally to be a film about climate change, he found that emissions reductions are ‘just the bonus, the icing on the cake’. Through years of research and consultation with some of the leading figures and communities grappling with these issues, he found a much richer, promising and universal focus. Music: The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: 2040 the film . That Sugar Film & Movement . The Mai Wiru Sugar Challenge Foundation . The Mai Wiru website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Don
S2 E29 · Wed, October 31, 2018
#029 Launching the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, with Research Director Dr Katherine Trebeck
Last month saw the 10th anniversary of the Lehman Brothers collapse that triggered the GFC. It was a fitting occasion to launch a new global alliance on the streets of New York City - the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, poetically abbreviated to WEAll. The Alliance has come about through a collaboration of some of the most influential and inspiring figures in this space. One of them is Dr Katherine Trebeck, the Alliance’s Research Director. She’s also an author, with her new book out next year, ‘The Economics of Arrival: Ideas for a grown-up economy’. WEAll is set up to help bring about the transformation of the economic system, society and its institutions, so that we prioritise shared wellbeing on a healthy planet. How will it do that? How did it come about? Who’s involved so far, and how do more of us join in? Katherine talks with Anthony about all this, along with some key developments like the new Wellbeing Economy Governments coalition being launched at the OECD’s Wellbeing Forum next month, and some of her instructive personal journey into the very heart of how we organise ourselves. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: WEAll website . Katherine's new book, The Economics of Arrival . Our episodes with Kate Raworth , Bob Costanza , and John Fullerton . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennarra
S2 E28 · Tue, October 16, 2018
#028 Transforming Food, Finance & Society, with Food Connect's Rob Pekin & Emma-Kate Rose
Today we feature an Australian first, in an area that is developing fast globally, and potentially helping to redefine how money, business and the economy work. It’s called equity crowdfunding. It’s based on the crowdfunding model most of us are probably familiar with, though here it’s used to raise investment capital. The federal legislation for this is new in Australia, and Food Connect seeks to become the first social enterprise in this country – or as they would say, ‘systems enterprise’ - to successfully use the tool. Food Connect is no ordinary enterprise. It’s really a phenomenon in Brisbane, that has germinated other developments in its mold all over the country. It began with the dramatic transformation of farmer Robert Pekin, and a model connecting farmer to eater more directly, fairly, and healthily, called Community Supported Agriculture (or CSA). The business has since developed, with the help of his now wife Emma-Kate Rose, into so much more. And most pointedly, in their sights now, are the inter-related food, farming and economic systems, along with the cultural stories underpinning how we organise those systems. Now they aim to raise $2-4 million, to enable a transformative vision, beginning with the purchase of the premises they’ve been operating out of for a little over a decade. This is the remarkable story of a dairy farmer gone broke and ‘mad’, as he puts it in all sincerity. And a chance meeting with a woman who ended up selling her house to invest in the enterprise, such was her belief in it, while dedicating her life to making it work. So how does Food Connect and equity crowdfunding work? What would investing in Food Connect look like with this crowdfund model? And how does it change the systems and stories we live by, from ‘back-end’ food ‘rescue’ operations, to impact investing, to our broader economy and culture? Join Rob and Emma-Kate as they chat with Anthony upstairs at the Food Connect warehouse. Update: The crowdfunder was successful, raising over $2m. Music: Sounds of the Forest. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Food Connect Foundation . The bio’s of Emma-Kate and Robert . F Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S2 E27 · Thu, October 11, 2018
#027 Regenerating the Never Never, with holistic management pioneer Moira Lanzarin
This unique region of Australia is famous for its ancient land and culture, luminous hot springs, and the best-selling book by Jeannie Gunn 'We of the Never Never'. It’s also developing renown for being an engine room for regenerating land, food and related systems. Moira Lanzarin is a business woman, an artist, a mother, and a leader in the regenerative agriculture movement. She’s been central to the introduction of Holistic Management in the Northern Territory of Australia, as Director of the family station at Coodardie. And her awards tell the tale. They include the Centenary Medal for Services to Regional Australia, NT Young Cattleman award (and no, she doesn’t flinch at being recognised as a Cattleman), NT Rural Woman of the Year Runner Up, and NT Young Australian of the Year. She has extensive board experience at a local, Territory and national level within industry and Government. From 2012 to 2016 she served as Director of Soils for Life - an Outcomes Australian Project under the Chairmanship of past Governor General, Michael Jefferies. Moira is a clear leader, not just in pastoralism, but in the life of this country. Her insights are as relevant to city-dwellers, as they are to those living outside of them. On how healthy living as a family can be the backbone of regenerating country, why connection with country is so important, how the current nation-wide water contamination crisis should amplify concern about fracking proposals, and what else is most needed for us to create a regenerative society - particularly in the context of the pace, pressure and mindset of modern life. Join Moira, and some of the other Coodardie locals, as she takes time out with Anthony on the country she calls home. Music: By Jeremiah Johnson Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Coodardie Station . The disastrous water issue Moira mentions , a little north of Coodardie in Katherine, is now the subject of a town-wide class action with possible repercussions around the country. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=C2LKHEX4MP4WQ¤cy_code=A
S2 E26 · Wed, September 26, 2018
#026 Critical Parameters for the New Economy, keynotes by Ian Lowe & Mary Graham
The 2nd National New Economy conference in Australia began with a couple of witty and profound keynote addresses. Together, Professor Ian Lowe and Aboriginal elder Dr Mary Graham craft a deft balance between gravity and levity, authority and guidance, and everyday language with a breadth of insight that genuinely captivates. Ian is an Order of Australia medal winner, former President of the Australian Conservation Foundation, and author of over 20 books. He talks of current trajectories and patterns, offering a broad take on what’s required and what has worked for social movements most effectively in the past. Mary is a highly respected Aboriginal elder, Associate Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland, and a consultant in Aboriginal community planning and development. She offers a sweeping perspective on ‘First Nations Economics’ and its relevance to our society today. And tellingly, both speakers converge on the moral aspect of achieving the new economy transition. So what are the most important elements – the critical parametres - of the new economy? And how do we go about harnessing them towards making that new economy our reality? With thanks to Scotty Foster for the production of, and permission to use, the recordings of these keynotes. Music: Let Them Know, by Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Professor Ian Lowe . Dr Mary Graham . New Economy Network Australia (NENA) website (including international links). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The Rege
Bonus · Thu, September 20, 2018
#025 Extra 2 - The Kachana Back-Story. With Chris Henggeler at the homestead
Due to the popularity of episode 25, and the fact that we hated editing this part out of the main episode to begin with, here’s Chris talking with Anthony back at the homestead about the back-story to Kachana. They explore Chris’s formative beginnings in Rhodesia, how the family came to acquire this disused part of the famed El Questro, and the personal changes that were needed for the great successes at Kachana to be realised. And just in case the wind played too much havoc with our recording in the field, Chris and Anthony delved a little further here into some of the key issues from the main episode - the importance of having people on country, along with of course the new megafauna, how holistic grazing works with cattle (and donkeys) as today’s diprotodons, the value of the AWC and its conservation model, and what needs to change to help other pastoralists regenerate the land. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: Kachana Station . Tune into the main episode 25, The New Megafauna with Chris Henggeler. And the 1st extra to this episode, Creating the Kachana Vision with Jacqueline Henggeler. This is a special 2nd extra to the 3rd and final part of our Kimberley series. Listen to podcasts 21 and 22 for the 1st and 2nd instalments. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit <a href='https://www.regennarration.com/
Bonus · Thu, September 13, 2018
#025 Extra - Creating the Kachana Vision, with Jacqueline Henggeler
The story of Kachana Station and its success is steeped in a family’s adventure. Jacqueline Henggeler is the Swiss paediatric nurse who joined Chris in the remote East Kimberley with their 3 children, to follow a vision for living together as a family on the land. It has been rich, and challenging. From sleeping in the back of a ute in the early days, to home schooling, to facing down the deep trials of life, she has ultimately revelled in a path less travelled. Jacqui’s insights on the broader project that Chris spearheaded, of regenerating the land, present a fascinating and moving outsider’s view of sorts. Including into how they’ve made it work as a family, financially and socially, how she has sustained a life many couldn’t, and ultimately how her work with the local indigenous folk has taught her the most important thing in life. Music: Stones & Bones, by Owls of the Swamp. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Kachana Station . Tune into the main episode 25 The New Megafauna , and the 2nd extra to this episode The Kachana Back-Story . This is a special extra to the 3rd and final part of our Kimberley series. Listen to episodes 21 and 22 for the 1st and 2nd instalments. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit <a href='https://www.re
S2 E25 · Thu, September 13, 2018
#025 The New Megafauna: The key to our future prosperity? With Chris Henggeler from Kachana Station
Can the new mega-fauna regenerate land and water systems, take away the need for systematic fire regimes and culling programs, and ultimately be the key to our future prosperity? Kachana is a remote station in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, accessible only by plane or foot. Chris Henggeler and his family have run it for over a generation now. From the early days sleeping in the back of a ute, they set about living a vision for a healthy family life on the land, while regenerating the grasses, forests and wetlands that had largely turned to dust. A generation later, Chris is a leading figure in the development of holistic grazing in Australia. He runs cattle as ‘gardeners’, as a non-fossil fuel based means of regenerating land. Chris thinks of these animals as the new mega-fauna, the large herbivores we need to restore to the land – along with others too readily designated as ‘pests’ and culled, like the wild donkeys he’s integrated into his management plans. George Monbiot has contested these methods in a high profile ‘debate’ with Allan Savory. But the successes at Kachana are marked - the creek that runs year-round now provides the homestead with its water, the forest now teems with life, and springs and birdlife are returning to the land. Join Chris as he takes Anthony for a look around one of the most spectacular places in the world, that could also be one of the most important to our future prospects as a civilisation. Note: There is the occasional gust of wind in this recording as we walk around the property. We edited out what we could. As for the sounds of family in the background, consistent with the theme of this podcast, they stay. Music: 43, by Owls of the Swamp. With the intro tune by Jeremiah Johnson. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Kachana Station . Tune into two special extras to this episode. The first is a conversation with Jacqueline Henggeler on ‘Creating the Kachana Vision’. And the second features more on the fascinating b Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
S2 E24 · Tue, August 21, 2018
#024 The Wilderness Within: Professor Frank Fisher in conversation with broadcaster Robyn Williams
The late Professor Frank Fisher was a pioneering systems thinker and Australia’s Inaugural Environmental Educator of the Year. He died 6 years ago today. To celebrate his life and insight, we’ve delved into the archives and found this wonderful conversation Frank had with a man who has been described as a legend of science broadcasting, Robyn Williams. This is no mild walk down memory lane. Their conversation, recorded in 2002, has almost uncanny relevance to so much of what’s happening in the world today. From the fraught terrain of energy transition and human perception, to the enticing prospect of ticketless public transport. And very personal questions of privacy in the context of integrated digital health records, and the broader phenomena of so-called ‘smart’ technologies. During an adult life shaped largely by his experiences with chronic illness, Frank longed for the sort of digital health record being introduced in Australia and elsewhere, but had a very distinct vision in general for the use of these ‘smart technologies’. In essence, he preferred the ‘smarts’ be located in our minds, more than our machines. He shares various insights here, on how to do just that – regenerating, as he puts it, the wilderness within. This interview of Frank Fisher by Robyn Williams was originally broadcast on The Science Show, ABC Radio National, on 3 October 2002, and his reproduced here with his kind permission (& joy at hearing Frank's voice again). Music: By Jeremiah Johnson. Get more: Tune into episode 5, Thinking & Living in Systems : In conversation with the late Professor Frank Fisher. Robyn Williams’ ABC Radio National profile . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a
S2 E23 · Tue, August 07, 2018
#023 Renewable Energy & Beyond: How do we transition to a renewable society? Feat. Richard Heinberg
The Economist reports that despite increasing public concern, and renewable power now costing less than coal in some places, rising energy demand means our use of fossil fuels is heading in the wrong direction. Meanwhile, climate calamities, once considered freakish, are now commonplace. All this emphasises the value and importance of this panel conversation. Globally renowned energy expert Richard Heinberg joined us online from the USA, alongside one of Australia’s most incisive minds in energy systems and societal futures, Josh Floyd, energy and psychology researcher Dr Andrea Bunting, host Anthony James, and a full house of 200 people. We explore why the transition to renewable energy is essential, though not enough in itself. to create a sustainable, fair & flourishing society. And what we need to do, individually and collectively, to create such a society. Energy is a rapidly changing space, technologically, financially and in some ways politically, but the equally vital broader terrain of re-calibrating society, our cultural norms, and how we think about and understand energy remains as important as ever. How much energy do we need? What happens to sectors like transport, agriculture and manufacturing? And what’s the best and most plausible proposal we’ve got for actually making the transition? Format: Anthony introduces the session, Richard speaks for 10 minutes, and Josh and Andrea for 5 minutes each. Then it’s an all-in conversation with the audience. Title slide image: sourced from The Economist . This event was the 3rd and final forum of the Regenerating Society Series, created by Anthony James in 2017. It was recorded at the National Sustainable Living Festival in the heart of Melbourne. And introduced by Professor Brendan Gleeson, Director of the Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute at the University of Melbourne, valued partner in the Regenerating Society Series. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Tune into episode 6. Redefining Progress , the 2nd forum of the Regenerating Society Series, mentioned in this conversation. Our Renewable Future , by Richard Heinbe Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
S2 E22 · Tue, July 24, 2018
#022 After James Price Point: History Repeating or Watershed, with EK Director Martin Pritchard
Martin Pritchard is Executive Director of Environs Kimberley (EK). He and his team were central to the successful campaign to prevent what could have been the largest LNG plant in the world, at James Price Point (Walmadan) just north of Broome. It was a celebrated outcome around the country, but in many ways was just the tip of the iceberg of ‘old industry’ plans for the region. With 40,000+ fracking wells slated for the area, is the future to be an endless succession of ‘James Price Points’? Or are we headed for a watershed moment that sees a shift to a new, regenerative economy? Martin sees the possibilities for the latter in numerous nascent industries, burgeoning Aboriginal enterprise, and a different way of looking at life, country and economy that the Kimberley and its inhabitants inspire. This unique region has massive swathes of country that haven’t experienced a single extinction since colonisation. In so many ways, what happens next here really matters. So what’s the vision for the future? What’s working now? How are the various powerful – at times opposing - interests engaged? And what is needed to develop the next economy for this unique region and beyond? Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Environs Kimberley . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E21 · Wed, July 11, 2018
#021 Waking Up The Snake: New economy, country & consciousness, with Indigenous leader Anne Poelina
This is a very special episode celebrating NAIDOC Week in Australia. Dr Anne Poelina is a Nyikina Traditional Custodian from the Mardoowarra, Lower Fitzroy River, in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia. And if anywhere epitomizes the critical time we’re in, it’s in the spectacular cultural and natural landscapes of her homeland. Almost incredibly, there are 40,000+ fracking wells slated for this area, along with the damming of the Fitzroy River, and more ‘old-model’ industrial agriculture. Yet the next economy is also in tow here, and this is where Anne is currently focusing her extraordinary breadth of cross-cultural knowledge and experience. Anne is an international award winner, Managing Director of Madjulla Incorporated, Councillor at the Australian Conservation Foundation, a qualified nurse, traditional midwife, has multiple postgraduate degrees, and over 30 years’ experience in Indigenous health, education, language and community development. Anthony caught up with her at her home in Broome recently, to talk about what shape the next economy might take in the Kimberley and beyond, how we can make it happen, and the enormous opportunity in treaty, recognition and connection with Australia’s First Nations. Title slide image: Magali McDuffie. Music: Song for the Mardoowarra, by Gwen Knox with Anne Poelina, played by Mick Stevens, and sung by the Broome Primary School Choir. Find more: An extract of this conversation was published by the good folk at Matters Journal . Madjulla . NAIDOC Week , celebrating Indigenous women in 2018. Environs Kimberley . New Economy Network Australia . Gwen Knox & Big Mama productions . The film clip of the Song for the Mardoowarra (they will be touring this month in the Kimberley, and are available for bookings from early 2019). Richard Flanagan at the National Press Club . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you h
S2 E20 · Wed, June 20, 2018
#020 Regenerating Democracy: A panel event with Dr John Hewson, Mary Crooks AO & Chloe Aldenhoven
An audience of over 200 people joined Dr John Hewson, former federal opposition leader; Mary Crooks AO, Executive Director of the Victorian Women’s Trust; and Chloe Aldenhoven, co-convenor of the Lock The Gate Alliance - which Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews recently called "the greatest political coalition we have seen in public policy for a very long time." Hosted by James Tonson. The panel explores some of the ideas and spectacular success stories of communities coming together to regenerate our democracy, across generations, gender and geography. And yet how the potential still seems barely realised. So in the context of dramatically decaying trust in politics, and with multiple transitions to navigate, how do we turn this into a thriving democracy for the 21st century? Title slide with thanks to the National Sustainable Living Festival. Anthony's introduction was recorded in the grounds of the University of Notre Dame in Broome, Western Australia. Find more: Victorian Women's Trust. Purple Sage Project . Lock The Gate Alliance . Dr John Hewson AM , ANU biography. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E19 · Thu, June 07, 2018
#019 A Global Movement Sweeping the Plains: A conversation with Evan Pensini
Evan Pensini is a pastoralist from the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia, on Cheela Plains Station. He and his wife Robin are pulling off some remarkable regeneration of country there, significantly defying official expectations of just how far and fast this land could recover its health and productivity. So how does the system work, particularly in Australia where hooved animals weren't part of its pre-colonial history? Why don't more pastoralists adopt these methods? What's the value of carbon farming? And is it really inevitable that mining will wipe out everything being achieved here? Music: The Great Unwind, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Cheela Plains Station . And listen to episode 16, Grassroots Revolution , with Charles Massy, and David & Frances Pollock from Wooleen Station. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E18 · Wed, May 23, 2018
#018 Protecting Ningaloo: with marine scientist, mother & unlikely campaign leader, Denise Fitch
Denise Fitch is a nurse, mum, marine scientist & unlikely leader of the Protect Ningaloo campaign – possibly the next big flashpoint in Australia, as we continue to grapple with transitioning from the dominant extractive, fossil fuel driven model of development, to the next ‘regenerative’ one. Denise is Chair of the Cape Conservation Group – the local group at the heart of the Protect Ningaloo campaign. She sat under a tree by Exmouth Gulf with host Anthony James to talk about the meaning of place, the latest with the Protect Ningaloo campaign, the great opportunity in it, and what it means to the movement for change more broadly. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Get involved in the campaign Protect Ningaloo . And listen to episode 17 with Tim Winton . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E17 · Tue, May 08, 2018
#017 Putting It All On The Line: A conversation with author & National Living Treasure, Tim Winton
This special podcast features one of Australia’s great writers, National Living Treasure, and reluctant activist, Tim Winton, direct from the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. Tim has again donated his prize money from a recent literature award to help launch a campaign to protect this area, called Protect Ningaloo. He has also been touring the country extensively with the publication of his brilliant new novel, The Shepherd’s Hut. Along the way, he’s been talking a lot about manhood and masculinity, and the problem with our narrow – even toxic - view of it. This wide-ranging conversation with host Anthony James explores why that matters, along with fiction and the arts generally, and what it's all got to do with Ningaloo and the state of the world more broadly. Music: The sounds of Ningaloo. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Get involved in the campaign Protect Ningaloo . The Shepherd’s Hut . Breath, Simon Baker's film adaptation of another of Tim's award-winning novels (which premiered in Sydney the night before this conversation). Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E16 · Thu, April 26, 2018
#016 Grassroots Revolution: Radical experiments regenerating land & life
Over 250 people filled The Dome at the recent National Sustainable Living Festival for this feature forum hosted by Anthony James, with special guests Frances Jones & David Pollock from Wooleen Station, and regenerative farmer Charles Massy AO. Frances Jones and David Pollock’s radical project to remove income-earning livestock from their historic property, in remote Western Australia, shocked their entire district, and has gone on to produce remarkable results. Charles Massy's ground-breaking new book features a range of similar experiments. It is a comprehensive account of how a grassroots revolution is helping to turn climate change around, while building healthy people, communities and landscapes. Many thanks to our sponsors for this event - Sustain: the Australian Food Network, the William Angliss Institute & the National Sustainable Living Festival. Find more: Charles Massy's book, Call of the Reed Warbler. Wooleen Station . And tune into podcast 9 for an in-depth conversation with Frances Jones at Wooleen Station. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E15 · Tue, April 03, 2018
#015 Paul Hawken's Powerful Keynote on Project Drawdown: At the 2018 National SLF Festival Australia
Following on from our 2-part series in conversation with Paul Hawken, here is his sold out keynote address and Q&A from the recent National Sustainable Living Festival. It's hard to overstate the significance of Project Drawdown. There hasn't previously been anything like it. So this keynote packed a real punch. It builds on a scathing critique of science communication, 'big agriculture', and the limitations of the Al Gore and Elon Musk phenomena, to present a comprehensive, holistic and uplifting outline of the 'top 100 solutions to reverse global warming' that feature in his new best-seller 'Drawdown'. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Project Drawdown . Paul's website . Tune into part 1 of Paul and Anthony's conversation . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E14 · Tue, March 20, 2018
#014 Paul Hawken in Conversation Part 2: Project Drawdown, 100 solutions to reverse global warming
This is part 2 of our special podcast series in conversation with Paul Hawken. This part is on Drawdown – 100 solutions to reverse global warming. This is Paul’s latest best-selling book, and the Project that’s taking off at an incredible rate around the world. Anthony and Paul talk about some of the key patterns that emerged as the book was pulled together, various insights on framing, the new economy, inequality, consumerism and growth, and ultimately how we see ourselves in the world, and what makes for fulfilling, meaningful living. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Tune into part 1 of Paul and Anthony's conversation . And to this special little extra with Paul , A Reading on the Wilderness Within. Project Drawdown . Paul's website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Bonus · Tue, March 13, 2018
#013 Extra - A Reading on the Wilderness Within, with Paul Hawken
In our conversation for episode 13, Paul refers to almost wanting to read us a passage he once wrote. Afterwards, we kept recording while he gathered the book and read. Music: Gone Clear, by William Tyler off his album Modern Country. Find more: You can hear the rest of our conversation in the main episode . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S2 E13 · Tue, March 13, 2018
#013 Paul Hawken in Conversation Part 1: His life, the growing movement & human change
To kick off 2018, we have a special 2-part podcast with Paul Hawken. Paul continues to influence heads of state, CEOs, activists & people from all walks right around the world. He was in Australia for a few weeks in February touring new best-seller 'Drawdown: The most comprehensive plan ever proposed to reverse global warming' & was kind enough to spend some time with Anthony for this in-depth conversation. This resulted in a special opportunity to explore not just Drawdown (in Part 2, out next week), but also his highly influential life & thinking more generally. We'll also podcast his keynote from the National Sustainable Living Festival from the week prior to this conversation. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Gone Clear, by William Tyler off the album Modern Country. Find more: Tune into a very special little extra with Paul - A Reading on the Wilderness Within. Project Drawdown . Paul's website . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E12 · Thu, December 14, 2017
#012 Regenerating Society Soundtrack 2017: Highlights from our guests in 2017
Here's a little something to spur your mood for change through the festive season - highlights from our soulful and eclectic mix of brilliant guests this year. We've put the lot together for our 12th and final podcast for 2017. You could think of it as our Regenerating Society Soundtrack. With thanks for tuning in this year, have a wonderful festive season and we look forward to joining you in many more inspiring transitions in 2018. Here's the 'track list' for our 2017 soundtrack: Introductory collation of guest quotes put to our podcast theme music - Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra John Fullerton (ep 1) Trevor Meier (ep 2) Kate Raworth (ep 3) Michelle Maloney (ep 4) Frank Fisher (ep 5) Tim Costello (ep 6) Bob Costanza (ep 7) John Hewson (ep 8) Frances Jones (ep 9) Amanda Cahill & Ron Ipsen (ep 11) The Hazelwood Song, by local musician & former Latrobe Valley mine-worker, Danny Boothman (ep 11). Due to licencing restrictions, most of our guests' nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E11 · Tue, December 05, 2017
#011 Regional Transitions: Stories of transition in progress
This was one of the most compelling dialogues generated out of the Ecocity World Summit in Melbourne recently. A seven-person panel explored a number of powerful stories of transition across regional Victoria, Australia, with themes echoing experiences all over the country and the world. Our seven panelists feature: Dr Nick Aberle, Environment Victoria’s Acting CEO at the time (starts at 2 mins 30); Wendy Farmer & Ron Ipsen, President & Vice-President of Voices of the Valley, an award-winning community advocacy group that formed during the catastrophic Hazelwood coal mine fire. The fire poisoned over 70,000 residents and contributed to 13 extra deaths across the Latrobe Valley (start at 10 mins); Harry & James Troedel, award-winning developers of a regenerative enterprise project, Seacombe West Regeneration Project, in a previously rich farming district that is so degraded it can no longer be farmed (the back story to this is also remarkable) (start at 23 mins 30); The prolific Sam Alexander from the University of Melbourne & the Simplicity Institute, whose recent documentary film about his eco-village project has attracted nearly a million views already (starts at 31 mins); And the highly respected Amanda Cahill from The Next Economy, with the sort of insider insight that only comes from trusted, long-term engagement with communities, business and authorities (starts at 38 mins) Hosted by Anthony James. Each panelist spoke for 5 minutes each – well, they tried! - before an extensive dialogue with the full house of about 80 people, which itself included esteemed figures like the internationally renowned Professor Katherine Gibson, Dr Dominique Hess, Dan Musil from Earthworker Cooperative, and Josh Floyd at The Rescope Project. This conversation is so very relevant to communities, business, governments, policy makers, researchers, facilitators and activists everywhere. And while the challenges may be extremely acute for communities often labelled ‘coal communities’ and the like right now, transition is underway, and it involves all of us, as you’ll hear. This is a charged, informative and inspiring conversation – the sort we so very much need more of. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. The Hazelwood Song, by local musician & former Latrobe Valley mine-worker, Danny Boothman. Find more: Voices of the Valley . Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining th
Trailer · Tue, December 05, 2017
#011 Preview - Regional Transitions: Stories of transition in progress
Next up is one of the most compelling dialogues generated out of the Ecocity World Summit in Melbourne recently. A seven-person panel explored powerful stories of transition across regional Victoria, Australia, with themes echoing experiences all over the country and the world. Here's a preview, featuring the voice of Ron Ipsen from Voices of the Valley, an award-winning advocacy group in the 'coal communities' of the Latrobe Valley. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
Trailer · Thu, November 16, 2017
#010 Preview - Rescoping Progress & the Good Life
Next up - we’ve had a few people ask to hear more about The Rescope Project. So we’ve turned the tables in our latest podcast. This time, we’re the guests - in conversation with radio show host, regenerative farmer & good food advocate, Cynthia Lim. Here's a preview. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E10 · Tue, November 14, 2017
#010 Rescoping Progress & the Good Life: Anthony James & Keith Badger hosted by Cynthia Lim
We’ve had a few people ask to hear more about us, so today we’re turning the tables. This time, we’re the guests - in conversation with radio show host, regenerative farmer and good food advocate, Cynthia Lim, at Seymour FM. Cynthia and her partner Nick have left the ‘rat race’ and set up a regenerative farm and stay operation together in Seymour - about 100 k’s north of Melbourne. When Cynthia got wind we were coming through her neck of the woods on our way to the New Economy Conference recently, she kindly asked us to drop in for a chat for her local Seymour FM radio show – The Food Exchange. We talk about the new economy, experiences of living more meaningful lives with less, and just how a former corporate executive (Keith Badger), and a former corporate-backed scholar (Anthony), came to ‘see the light’ and join the movement for change to the systems in which we live. As the afternoon shadows stretched across the hillside, Anthony and Keith headed into the studio at the Blue Tongue Berries farm in Seymour, for this chat with Cynthia Lim. Production by Ben Moore. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: Blue Tongue Berries Farm . The Food Exchange , a passionate community food group with a radio show, promoting local, ethical food. Their by-line? We don't buy food from strangers! Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E9 · Wed, November 01, 2017
#009 Regenerating Land & Food Systems: A conversation with Frances Jones from remote Wooleen Station
“Cattle, sheep, prosperity, first Australians, land on a knife edge, the politics of food and a struggle for future sustainability. An outback eco-tourism experiment that challenges a hundred years of European orthodoxy.” That’s from the flyer at the remote Wooleen Station, where David Pollock and Frances Jones have radically destocked the land to regenerate it, after more than a century of degradation. Despite a moving story of nearly going broke, dealing with out-dated laws, and the politics around re-introducing a natural predator, they’re finding ways to continue their vital project, and producing some incredible outcomes. So it was great to visit them, learn more about what they’re up to, and what it means not just for them, but for the broader transition to sustainable, flourishing societies. Joining Anthony for a chat in the garden of the beautiful Wooleen Homestead, here’s Station Co-Manager, Frances Jones. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Wooleen Station website . Article on the Auditor General’s report released this month , ‘Control of pastoral leases ‘bigger than Western Europe’ failing’ Note: John Forrest was the first premier of the state of Western Australia. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. <p
Trailer · Tue, October 31, 2017
#009 Preview - Regenerating Land & Food Systems with Frances Jones from Wooleen Station
“Cattle, sheep, prosperity, first Australians, land on a knife edge, the politics of food and a struggle for future sustainability. An outback eco-tourism experiment that challenges a hundred years of European orthodoxy.” That’s from the flyer at the remote Wooleen Station, where David Pollock and Frances Jones have radically destocked the land to regenerate it, after more than a century of degradation. Despite a moving story of nearly going broke, dealing with out-dated laws, and the politics around re-introducing a natural predator, they’re finding ways to continue their vital project, and producing some incredible outcomes. Pic: Nic Duncan Photographer Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E8 · Tue, October 17, 2017
#008 A Greater Purpose: A conversation with former Australian Liberal Party leader John Hewson
Today we’re featuring a conversation with one of the world’s most prominent political elders - former Australian Federal Liberal Party leader, and now Professorial Fellow at the Australian National University, John Hewson. In recent years, John has become an increasingly admired figure across the political spectrum, as a powerful advocate for more leadership, transparency, responsible investment, and evidence-based policy. This is particularly in the context of the inter-related global challenges of climate change, a possible further financial crisis, and so-called ‘post-truth’ politics. So it was a real pleasure to receive a call from John upon our arrival in Canberra, welcoming a conversation. It became an even greater pleasure as John’s level of candour, depth, insight, humour and care became more apparent. Most Australians probably still recall John from his contesting of the 1993 federal election for the Prime Ministership. But he’s a bit like the life-long musician who had a few years in a famous pop band. The rest of his life has featured an extensive array of studies, achievements and experience, across a range of sectors and senior positions globally. We talk about his frustrations and great concerns – the precariousness of our financial and ecological systems, the hollowness of money and economic growth for their own sake, and the difficultly current systems are having grappling with all this. And we talk about his proposals for change, his experiences of dealing with vested interests, the great potential of the youth vote in particular, but also of a broad movement based on a greater sense of national purpose. We also gain more of a sense of the deeply felt purpose driving John; a purpose that sees corporate responsibility as about culture rather than charity, acting beyond our own immediate interests for the good of the whole, and an openness to learn from each other. Anthony's co-host for this conversation is former senior corporate executive, Keith Badger. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Title image: sourced from fambiz.org.au. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Dr John Hewson AM , ANU biography. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please co
Trailer · Mon, October 16, 2017
#008 Preview - Former Australian Federal Liberal Party leader Dr John Hewson
Next up is a bloke who's become one of the world's most prominent political elders & an increasingly admired figure across the political spectrum, Dr John Hewson. This in-depth & personal conversation features John's proposals for change, experiences of dealing with vested interests, the great potential of the youth vote in particular, and also of a broad movement based on a greater sense of purpose. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E7 · Wed, September 20, 2017
#007 Ecological Economics: A conversation with renowned systems thinker Professor Robert Costanza
Robert Costanza is one of the world's most accomplished and decorated systems thinkers & ‘ecological economists’. Having moved to Australia five years ago, he’s now a Professor and Vice Chancellor’s Chair at the Australian National University’s Crawford School of Public Policy. So it was great to have an opportunity to meet Bob in person and hear some of his fascinating story, recent work, sense of hope, and what he thinks we still need to do to set ourselves towards a sustainable and desirable future. Bob has an extraordinary back-story, list of credentials, and the company he has kept over the years reads like a who’s who of the systems thinking and ecological economics fields. This is a guy who has given his all to this work over several decades. And when Anthony spoke with the first guest on this podcast, former Wall Street executive John Fullerton, Bob was the first name he mentioned when talking about the work being done in Australia to regenerate the systems and stories we live by. This is a powerfully concise explainer of where our economy and related systems and cultural narratives need to go – along with the why and how. We spoke about public surveys that consistently affirm most people would prefer to live in sustainable and equitable societies, as well as genuine progress indicators that show the last ‘genuine progress’ in countries like Australia occurred decades ago. We also talk about the Sustainable Development Goals, the need for more systems-based education, and to recreate language as we ultimately develop a more inter-connected and holistic worldview. Putting on a fine cup of tea at his ANU office in Canberra, is Bob Costanza. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Bob’s detailed ANU profile with an extensive list of publications. The Solutions Journal , the hybrid peer-reviewed journal and popular magazine (think Nature meets the New Yorker). It is on the web, on news-stands, and in libraries. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=C2LKHEX4
Trailer · Tue, September 19, 2017
#007 Preview - World-renowned systems thinker & ecological economist Professor Robert Costanza
Next up is Professor Robert Costanza, one of the world's most accomplished and decorated systems thinkers & ‘ecological economists’. Hear some of his fascinating story, recent work, sense of hope, and what he thinks we still need to do to set ourselves towards a sustainable and desirable future. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E6 · Thu, July 27, 2017
#006 Redefining Progress: Live panel event with Tim Costello, Melissa Weinberg & Mike Salvaris
Today we’re featuring not one, but a number of special guests from a public conversation Anthony hosted earlier this year, on how we go about the much-needed tasks of redefining our notion of progress - and developing new ways to measure it. The panel was joined by a full house of around 300 people, together generating one of our most compelling public forums to date. Tim Costello AO is Chief Advocate for World Vision and one of Australia’s most recognised voices on social justice, leadership and ethics. Dr Melissa Weinberg is a TEDx Speaker and well-known wellbeing researcher, who led the research for the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index. And Mike Salvaris is co-founder of the OECD Global Progress Research Network, and a driving force behind the development of the Australian National Development Index. It has long been recognised that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is an inadequate measure of society’s success and development. Yet it and our focus on economic growth driven by wasteful consumerism persist, despite the range of crises they cause and the growing recognition that limitless consumption doesn’t make for healthy, meaningful human life. This conversation explores how we can change these flawed narratives, systems and measures, to guide us to a sustainable economy geared towards quality of life, rather than quantity of stuff. Along the way, we learn (or re-learn) plenty about Australia, the world, deeper human nature, and each other. And the sort of probing questions, fascinating findings, and inspiring projects covered here, all offer great grist for the mill for those of us looking to reset our guiding stars of happiness, success and progress. Is happiness the goal? Does it even work to try to increase our happiness? What makes for a meaningful life, and how do we institute that as the basis of our national accounts? What kind of leadership can we develop to this end? And how do we juggle the need to campaign on specific urgent issues, with the overarching need to address the common source of those issues? We adopted a fairly snappy format for this forum. After brief introductions you’ll hear each speaker offer a 5-minute ‘fire-starter’. Then we launch into extensive dialogue with the audience. With thanks to Professor John Wiseman and the Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute for their support of this event. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Or Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoid
Trailer · Wed, July 26, 2017
#006 Preview - Panel on Redefining Progress - Tim Costello, Dr Melissa Weinberg & Dr Mike Salvaris
Next up is a live panel discussion Anthony hosted earlier this year, on how we go about the much-needed tasks of redefining our notion of progress - and developing new ways to measure it. Tim Costello is Chief Advocate for World Vision and one of Australia’s most recognised voices on social justice, leadership and ethics. Dr Melissa Weinberg is a TEDx Speaker and well-known wellbeing researcher, who led the research for the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index. And Dr Mike Salvaris is co-founder of the OECD Global Progress Research Network, and a driving force behind the development of the Australian National Development Index. The panel was joined by a full house of around 300 people, together generating one of our most compelling public forums to date. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E5 · Tue, July 11, 2017
#005 Thinking & Living in Systems: With pioneering systems thinker, the late Professor Frank Fisher
The late Professor Frank Fisher was a pioneering systems thinker and Australia’s Inaugural Environmental Educator of the Year. A couple of months ago, Anthony received a copy of an interview with Frank that was originally broadcast on SBS Radio here in Australia back in 1999. Perhaps some of you heard it at the time. For those who didn't (which included Anthony, who was to meet Frank the following year), this was a great surprise – one we are keen to share in turn. Captured in this short interview is a sense of what made Frank such a highly respected figure. There’s a sense of grounded humanity and possibility in how he talks, and how he lived. The title of his anthology, ‘Response Ability’, conveys this message succinctly - that the changes we need are within our reach. Regenerating systems and stories isn’t the domain of remote experts. It is the subject of everyday life, and ultimately who we want to become. This is especially so given the ‘wicked’ nature of our major crises. “They’re called wicked problems”, Frank explains, “because anything that you do to try to mechanically ‘attack’ them produces a whole range of new problems”. Given these inevitable side-effects, “We have to look at other ways of doing things. And the primary way of dealing with these problems is to take the cause away [through social change].” Frank was no technophobe, mind you. An electrical engineer who’d spent a decade in industry working in major energy projects, he went on to initiate what was Australia’s largest wind farm when completed, just a few years after this interview. But it’s the social context of this technology that counts most. Original recording by Svetimir Ristic for SBS Serbian Radio in 1999. Svetimir is a graduate of the Masters program Frank led for a generation at Monash University. The quality of the recording and some of the particulars of what Frank talks about here may have dated a little, but the general content and approach is as relevant as ever. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. Find more: On Frank and the Understandascope , a concept developed by Frank with National Living Treasure, Michael Leunig. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . <a href='https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=C2LKHEX4MP4WQ¤cy_code=AUD&source
Trailer · Mon, July 10, 2017
#005 Preview - Pioneering systems thinker & Rescope Project founder, the late Professor Frank Fisher
Next up is the late Professor Frank Fisher, pioneering systems thinker and Australia’s Inaugural Environmental Educator of the Year. This interview gives a sense of what made Frank such a highly respected figure. There's a grounded humanity and possibility in how he talks, and how he lived. The title of his anthology, ‘Response Ability’, conveys this message succinctly - that the changes we need are within our reach. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E4 · Thu, June 29, 2017
#004 Building the New Economy: A conversation with national convenor Dr Michelle Maloney
Dr Michelle Maloney is the national convenor and co-founder of the Australian Earth Laws Alliance, and the developing New Economy Network Australia. Both are strongly connected with fast-growing global movements, and a burgeoning mix of initiatives on the ground. All this has inspired a rapidly growing convergence on the 2nd New Economy conference coming up in Brisbane in September, to formalise the network and its strategies for regenerating the systems and stories we live by. Hear Michelle talk about who's involved, what it's aiming to achieve, how you can get involved, and why it matters. It’s no secret that there is mass disenchantment with our economic and governance systems. And there is an extraordinary range and number of people and organisations around the world working to harness this towards positive change. Michelle explains that Australia is no exception. “At its nub, what [we’re] talking about is shifting the underpinning structures that support industrial society away from destruction, and towards sustaining, nurturing and restoring life.” Thousands of people and groups are working at the new economy in one form or another in Australia. But unlike a lot of other places around the world, there has been no over-arching means of connecting and developing the movement. There have been pockets of work on the new economy everywhere, but nothing to stitch them together. “We’ve got all the pockets, we’ve got pockets galore. And we want to grow that, and amplify that …. But at the macro level, the systems change … perhaps [that’s where] this network will have an opportunity to really break some new ground…. [To shift] not just pockets of activity in a local area but the systems that connect them.” Michelle emphasises that this isn’t just for people working in this space already. This is for anyone who wants to be part of the network’s important work. And the music she chooses for us to end this podcast will leave you in no doubt that when she describes the upcoming conference as a ‘grass roots economics fiesta’, she means it! MIchelle joins Anthony online from her home in Brisbane. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra. 43, by Owls of the Swamp. Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Trailer · Mon, June 26, 2017
#004 Preview - National Convenor & co-founder of the New Economy Network Australia, Michelle Maloney
Next up is Dr Michelle Maloney, national convenor of the New Economy Network Australia & the Australian Earth Laws Alliance. Hear about these fast-growing networks, the upcoming 'new economy fiesta' (aka the Building a New Economy for Australia Conference, 1-3 September), and the potential in all this for helping us transition to a just, sustainable & flourishing society. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E3 · Thu, June 15, 2017
#003 Doughnut Economics: A conversation with Kate Raworth, systems thinker & new best-selling author
Kate Raworth is one of the world's most brilliant and needed systems thinkers. Her new book 'Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist' is already a best-seller and has been described by George Monbiot as 'brilliant, thrilling and revolutionary'. Tim Jackson, the author of Prosperity Without Growth, says it ‘reclaims economics from the dust of academia.’ Indeed, Kate initially walked away from economics due to the disconnect between how it was being taught, and today’s ‘real world’ concerns. This book is the synthesis of her work since she felt compelled to return to the field, having recognised it as the ‘mother tongue’ of modern society. Kate's experience mirrors that of an increasing number of people in this regard, including myself. So it was great to have an opportunity to speak with her about how her doughnut – yes, of all things - can help us rethink and recreate our economic system for today’s world – to leave no one languishing in the hole, while keeping planetary boundaries safely intact. This isn’t just for economists. It’s for all of us. It’s about how we live and organise ourselves – and ultimately how we get to the heart of creating the world we’d rather see. And Kate’s art is not just how to think about this stuff, it’s how to communicate it. In literally re-drawing economics for the 21st century, Kate is asking us to engage with how people make sense of things, and by extension how we can make new sense of things. “I realised, when it comes to mindset, how powerful pictures are…. Far more than we give them credit for, they shape the way we think.” All this gets to the heart of system change - shifting the mindset and the very goals of the system. Though in this case, we’re not so much charged with shifting goals as, tellingly, creating one – to go beyond growth and GDP as proxies for society’s progress, to tracking what’s actually important to us. “We have an economy that needs to grow, whether or not it makes us thrive. We need an economy that makes us thrive, whether or not it grows.” So if the doughnut is the goal, how do we get there? Kate offers a kind of map. And hearing about her interactions with mainstream institutions, and the many ways people of all walks can and are driving this change, feeds a sense of something significant happening here. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra 43, by Owls of the Swamp Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, a
Trailer · Wed, June 14, 2017
#003 Preview - Brilliant systems thinker & new best-selling author Kate Raworth
Here's a preview of our next guest, Kate Raworth. She is one of the world's most brilliant and needed systems thinkers. Her new book 'Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist' is already a best-seller and has been described by George Monbiot as 'brilliant, thrilling and revolutionary'. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber on Buzzsprout . Visit The RegenNarration shop . And please keep sharing, rating and reviewing the podcast with friends. Thanks for your support!
S1 E2 · Tue, May 30, 2017
#002 A New Economy: A conversation with Trevor Meier, award-winning film-maker
Trevor Meier is an award-winning documentary film-maker, photographer, and story-teller. His latest film, ‘A New Economy’, has been a popular feature on the global festival circuit, including nationally in Australia as part of the Transitions Film Festival. It’s a terrific documentary - much-needed, beautifully produced, and featuring a range of insightful people and projects to fire our imaginations, open our view of the world, and sure up our courage to experiment with new ways of doing things. As Trevor explains, this isn’t a movie about the economic crisis we’re in – it’s about going beyond the crisis. It’s about what comes next, or perhaps better said, what is currently coming next. Our first guest on this podcast, Capital Institute founder John Fullerton, features in the film. And like John, Trevor has observed hundreds of projects happening on the ground to build a new economy – they considered 600 for this film alone! Speaking with Trevor affirms a sense of possibility in the world, one grounded in the reality we might not commonly see unfolding on daily media. He also talks tellingly about his biggest regret of the film, and the liberating nature of the work he does, connecting with the best of what makes us human – notwithstanding, or even because of, the challenges involved. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra Everything Always Moving, by AU4 Find more: Trevor’s website . A New Economy film website . A New Economy most recently opened the Adelaide Transitions Film Festival on Friday 19 May 2017. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with your host, other listeners and exclusive benefits on Patreon . (NB: if you're using an iPhone, you can avoid Apple's new 30% app store charge by subscribing on your laptop or PC.) Become a free or paid subscriber to the new Substack . Become a paid subscriber <a href='https://regennarration.b
S1 E1 · Sat, May 13, 2017
#001 Regenerative Economics: A conversation with John Fullerton, founder of the Capital Institute
Welcome to our first episode, featuring an extensive, personal and inspiring conversation between host Anthony James and John Fullerton, the former Wall Street executive who became the founding President of The Capital Institute, a non-profit organisation working to change our 'broken' economic and financial systems. John’s a former Managing Director of 'the old' JP Morgan, as he puts it, and now founding President of the Capital Institute, a non-profit organisation in the US dedicated to bringing about new, regenerative economic and financial systems. Given these systems are fundamental to the civilisational crisis we find ourselves in, and therefore how we need to deal with it, this is vital work, and a revealing conversation. John’s work draws deeply on systems thinking, a broad range of other contemporary and ancient schools of thought, and a range of ‘real world’ case studies, impact investing and other experiments on the ground. All this features in his extensive speaking and writing, including in his white paper, Regenerative Capitalism: How Universal Principles and Patterns Will Shape Our New Economy. Production by Ben Moore & Anthony James. Pre-production with Mati Edwards. Music: Let Them Know, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra 43, by Owls of the Swamp Due to licencing restrictions, our guest’s nominated music can only be played on radio or similarly licenced broadcasts of this episode. Find more: Capital Institute . John's White Paper , 'Regenerative Capitalism: How universal principles and patterns will shape our new economy'. The film 'A New Economy' , featuring John Fullerton, opens the Adelaide Transitions Film Festival on Friday 19 May 2017. Note: Bendigo Bank CEO, Mike Hirst, tells us the $40m John makes mention of in this podcast, that the bank has returned to communities, is actually $165m (at the time of this program), not including shareholder returns and the spend of branches on wages and so on. Send us a text Support the show The RegenNarration podcast is independent, ad-free and freely available, thanks to the generous support of listeners like you. If you too value what you hear, please consider joining them. Donate directly, avoiding all fees, by heading to the website . Donate via PayPal . Become a paid subscriber to connect with you
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