Stories Connect People to Conservation

"The only way you're going to save the world is with a damn good story."

Notable Moments

02:13 – Jeff’s origin story: how a zoo letter changed his life

04:47 – Radical collaboration and partnerships across conservation groups
06:31 – Story of Pueblo Patagonia and local leadership in Chile

13:16 – Big change starts with one local champion

17:26 – Why storytelling is essential to conservation success

24:16 – Gabon’s 30x30x30x30 model and protecting rivers, too

26:14 – Partnering with Disney for the Lion Recovery Fund

33:18 – Jody’s zoo and creek story: early sparks of passion

37:52 – Jeff’s advice for new park leaders: seek diverse experiences, tell good stories

What if the future of conservation hinged less on policy and more on storytelling?

Conservation doesn’t start with land. It starts with people. And it lasts because of the stories we carry forward. In this episode, Jody Maberry talks with Jeff Parrish, Global Managing Director at The Nature Conservancy. Jeff shares how global conservation success starts with local champions, radical collaboration, and the power of storytelling. From protecting ancient forests in Chile to elephants in Gabon, Jeff emphasizes that people are the heart of conservation, not policy. He highlights partnerships with Disney and grassroots leaders, and reminds us that whether you're a donor or a ranger, your story matters.

Read the blog and make sure to take a listen to hear more on how stories connect people to conservation.

Episode Resources

The Nature Conservancy

About Jeff

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