Best Will Routledge Podcasts (2025)

1
Wildlife and Wild Places: Nate Wilbourne’s New Zealand Mission 30:50

Play Pause

1M ago30:50

30:50

In this episode, we sit down with Nate Wilbourne, one of New Zealand’s most passionate young conservationists, to talk all things wildlife. From bird relocation projects to predator trapping, Nate shares his experiences working hands on in conservation across Aotearoa. We explore the challenges of protecting native species, the success stories that…

1
Living Fossils: Richard Pearce on Japan’s Giant Salamanders 41:47

2M ago41:47

41:47

In this episode, we’re joined by Richard Pearce, founder of Bushido Japan and passionate conservationist, to uncover the mysterious world of the Japanese giant salamander one of the world’s largest and most elusive amphibians. Richard shares how he became involved with this ancient species, what makes it so unique, and the cultural and ecological i…

1
Peter Jackson Backs De-Extinction Project: From Fossil to Fantasy, the Giant Moa 9:29

2M ago9:29

9:29

In this episode, we dive into the cutting-edge science behind one of the most ambitious conservation experiments in history: the effort to bring back the giant moa. From ancient DNA and CRISPR technology to emu surrogates and artificial egg environments, William explores how scientists including those at Colossal Biosciences are rewriting extinctio…

1
Wild Antarctica: A Researcher’s Life in the Coldest Classroom 33:47

3M ago33:47

33:47

Life on Ice: Jean Pennycook on Living and Researching in Antarctica In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Jean Pennycook, a scientist and educator who has spent over two decades living and working in the icy wilderness of Antarctica. Jean shares what it’s like to sleep in a tent on the frozen continent, conduct penguin research in extreme co…

1
Behind the Camera: Alaska Through Tom Walker’s Eyes 37:44

3M ago37:44

37:44

In this episode, I’m joined by renowned Alaskan wildlife photographer Tom Walker, whose powerful images have brought the raw beauty of the north into homes around the world. We dive deep into what it truly takes to capture Alaska’s untamed landscapes and elusive animals from frigid nights spent alone in a photo blind to heart pounding encounters wi…

1
Into the Wild: My Journey Through Sumatra’s Jungle 20:18

3M ago20:18

20:18

In this episode, I take you deep into the heart of Sumatra, starting from the jungle village of Bukit Lawang a gateway to the vast Gunung Leuser National Park, one of Southeast Asia’s last true wildernesses. Trekking through dense rainforest, I encountered wild orangutans, swinging gibbons, and even bioluminescent millipedes lighting up the jungle …

1
Hunting, Ice, and Igloos: Seth Kantner's Arctic Life 36:10

3M ago36:10

36:10

In this episode, I sit down with Seth Kantner, acclaimed author, subsistence hunter, and lifelong Alaskan who grew up in a sod igloo on the remote tundra of Arctic Alaska. We dive into what it was really like to be raised off the grid hauling water, hunting for food, and living in deep connection with the land and its rhythms. Seth shares vivid sto…

1
Rowing Around the World: The Man Who Did It Alone 57:00

4M ago57:00

57:00

Guinness World Record holder Erden Eruç joins me to talk about rowing solo across three oceans, cycling across continents, and what it means to live a life of human powered exploration. An unforgettable story of determination and discovery. You can see the list of world records Erden hold here: https://www.erdeneruc.com/world-records Follow me on Y…

1
1,800km Journey through Indonesia: Lumarara’s Whale Hunters 20:47

4M ago20:47

20:47

In this episode, I take you deep into one of the most remote and raw corners of Indonesia Lumarara, a traditional whale hunting village on the island of Lembata. After a motorbike journey spanning over 1,800 km, ferries between islands, language barriers, and sleeping in strangers’ homes, I finally reached this elusive coastal village known for its…

1
Living Root Bridges: The Ancient Art of Growing Architecture 15:07

4M ago15:07

15:07

In one of the wettest regions on Earth Meghalaya, India a remarkable tradition thrives: bridges made not from steel or stone, but from the living roots of rubber fig trees. In this episode, I speak with Morningstar Khongthaw, founder of the Living Bridge Foundation, to learn how these extraordinary living structures are created, maintained, and pas…

1
Pearling Stories from the Edge of Australia 28:56

4M ago28:56

28:56

In this solo episode, I share my raw, real story of how I stumbled into the mysterious and beautiful world of the pearling industry. From having no clue about oysters to spawning them by hand, I take you on my journey to Beagle Bay a remote Aboriginal community two hours north of Broome, Western Australia where I lived and worked for eight months o…

1
The Truth Behind Free Willy: Keiko’s Real Story 45:37

5M ago45:37

45:37

Dive into the untold story of Keiko, the beloved orca who captured the world’s heart in Free Willy. Join me as I sit down with environmentalist and wildlife filmmaker Karla, along with musician and director Theresa, to uncover the real life journey of Keiko beyond the Hollywood spotlight. This episode explores the truth behind his captivity, the ef…

1
Vanishing Dolphins: The Battle to Save Māui & Hector’s 35:53

5M ago35:53

35:53

In this episode, we sit down with Christine Rose founder and chair of Māui and Hector’s Dolphin Defenders to explore her remarkable three decade journey protecting two of the world’s rarest marine mammals. Christine shares powerful stories from her encounters with these elusive dolphins, both from the shoreline and at sea, and discusses what first …

1
The Orangutan Whisperer: Leif Cocks on Saving a Species 43:00

5M ago43:00

43:00

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Leif Cocks renowned primatologist and founder of The Orangutan Project. We explore Leif’s remarkable journey from zookeeper to one of the world’s most vocal advocates for orangutan conservation. Leif shares what inspired him to dedicate his life to protecting great apes, the early challenges of establishing…

1
A Journey into the Unknown 16:22

5M ago16:22

16:22

In this debut episode, I share the story of how I left the UK in 2015 and began a life of travel and adventure. From working on the road to encountering incredible wildlife across continents, this episode kicks off the podcast with personal stories, lessons learned, and what it’s like to live a nomadic life close to nature. Follow me on YouTube for…

1
Dan Raven-Ellison – Founder and CEO of Slow Ways 47:18

8M ago47:18

47:18

Dan Raven-Ellison describes himself as a guerrillageographer and creative explorer. He is the Founder and CEO of Slow Ways, a groundbreaking initiative to create a national walking network that connects all of Britain’s towns, cities, and National Parks. Check out Slow Ways and see how you can contribute: https://beta.slowways.org/. The movement ne…

1
Tim Jepson – Climber, walker, paddler, BMC Cymru Gogledd/North Wales Chair. 42:31

8M ago42:31

42:31

Tim Jepson is best known for working the Bangor UniversityOutdoor Education PGCE. In that role he trained over 600 teachers of OutdoorEducation and as such he holds a special affection in the outdoor world. Healso worked at Plas y Brenin and more recently has been very involved with theBMC. We talk about how Tim got into the outdoors, the career he…

1
Mehmet Karatay - Mountaineering Instructor and MWIS weather forecaster 58:39

9M ago58:39

58:39

Mehemet Karatay is a Mountaineering and ClimbingInstructor, Winter Mountain Leader and Orienteering coach based in the Cairngorms. He is part of the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) team and has a doctorate in Glaciology. Mehmet reveals the origins of his name, howhe came to be a walker, climber and instructor in Scotland. We also talk a…

1
New Year Special - Celyn Kehoe Welsh Upland Farmer 45:08

9M ago45:08

45:08

What do you really know about upland farming? Given the farming protests going on currently I think it's really important to talk to real farmers about the issues affecting them. Listen to this podcast with Celyn from 2021 then come and meet her in person on the farm in June to find out more... ⁠https://www.mikeraine.co.uk/event-details/up-on-the-f…

1
Dr. Cath Flitcroft - Head of Access and Environment at the BMC 37:06

9M ago37:06

37:06

Dr Flitcroft is responsible for managing the BMC'srelationship with the Government and other countryside and recreational organisations. She is often to be found lobbying hard for the rights of hill walkers, climbers and mountaineers. She leads the BMC on policy and legislation issues affecting the cliff and mountain environment and is responsible …

1
Esther Foster MCI and Development Coach in the Lake District. 39:02

10M ago39:02

39:02

Esther does a lot of rock climbing work from beginners tocoaching for progression. She works on Mountain training Courses, she is Director of the Women’s Climbing Symposium and, with a Post Graduate Qualification in Environmental Education, she works with the Field Studies Council too. We talk about but her pathway to success, the Women’s Climbing …

1
Jonny Hulson, Land Managment Development Officer at North Wales Wildlife Trust 38:01

10M ago38:01

38:01

A big chat about land management, particularly in the uplands. And what changes to the way we support farmers could mean for the hills.

1
Lou Tully - Freedom Outdoors 35:34

10M ago35:34

35:34

Lou runs Freedoms Outdoors based her in Eryri National Park. She, with her partner john, also run an accommodation base called Capel Tanrallt. In the podcast we find out how Lou got into the outdoors and the incredible range of pursuits in which she has, and does, take part. Lou has become known as one of the largest providers of ML training and as…

1
Iago Thomas, National Trust Peatland Officer in North Wales 32:00

10M ago32:00

32:00

Iago is managing upland peat restoration on the National Trust Ysbyty Ifan estate here in Eryri National Park. He helps to understand why peat and blanket bogs are incredibly important and how they are trying to enhancethe status quo.

1
Gus Routledge - ecoologist talks to Nathan Chrismas 51:49

10M ago51:49

51:49

Gus Routledge is a Scottish ecologist with a particularinterest in bryophytes, though he also puts a good case for grasses and sedges. He operates in the uplands, where he has found several very rare plants. In this podcast he discusses with Nathan what he does and the projects in which he is involved. Take a look at his inspiring posts on Instagra…

1
Darren Johnson - Mountain Leader and Chair of BMC Midlands 51:55

10M ago51:55

51:55

Darren Johnson is a Midlands based Mountain Leader who is currently the Chair of the BMC Midlandscommittee. Darren has a lifetime of diverse experience and a passion for bringing people together, he brings more to the outdoors than a love for adventure. Over the years, he’s built a multi-faceted career, spanning localgovernment management, social s…

1
Hazel Moran of the Martin Moran Foundation talks to Dr. Nathan Chrismas for the Outdoor Lives Podca 40:29

11M ago40:29

40:29

Helen Moran of the Martin Moran Foundation talks to Dr.Nathan Chrismas for the Outdoor Lives PodcastThe https://www.martinmoranfoundation.co.uk/aims to inspire people through the power of mountain adventure, climbing and community in wild places. To elevate the lives of young people through purpose,passion and powerful experiences in the mountains …

1
Lou Reynolds, International Mountain Guide 43:27

11M ago43:27

43:27

Lou, from Devon, is now living and working in the FrenchAlps as a Mountain Guide. She talks through gaining her Mountain Training Qualifications and then becoming a Guide. She tells us what it's like to work as a Guide. She now lives in Chamonix with her Mountain Guide husband and they are expecting their first child, which is always a challenge fo…

1
Outdoor Lives - Guided by Nature 52:39

11M ago52:39

52:39

Mia and Caroline are Dilyn Nature/Guided by Nature and they run the excellent Practical Mental Health Skills Workshop for Outdoor Leaders. I wanted to find out more about them, what they do and how they do it. We talk about each one of their personal journeys to form Guided by Nature/Dilyn Nature. We discover the range of work they do and more abou…

1
Outdoor Lives series five - introduction 6:22

12M ago6:22

6:22

Hello, this is a short introduction to the forthcoming series with special news of a new development.

1
Snowdonia Society - Make a Difference Weekend 29:51

1y ago29:51

29:51

This is a special, bonus summer edition of the podcast. I visited the Cymdeithas Eryri/Snowdonia Society weekend in Nant Gwynant to find out more about the Society and the event. Cymdeithas Eryri's Make A Difference (MAD) weekend was funded by the UK Government, with funds administered by Gwynedd Council. A full new series will start in November…

1
Angela Charlon - Director of Ramblers Cymru 33:27

1+ y ago33:27

33:27

Angela heads up the Ramblers in Wales. She leads a team campaign on behalf of footpaths and walkers. We chat about what the Ramblers are doing and how they are going about it. We touch on many topics, such asworking with Welsh Government, volunteers and landowners.

1
Sarah Price, Lowland Leader at Walk Hay 45:21

1+ y ago45:21

45:21

Sarah believes passionately in the importantance of walking for all. Her business is based in a lowland area and she thinks the Lowland Leader could be more valued. “There are such a high percentage of the population that, if you have ‘hill’, ‘mountain’, ‘challenge’ or ‘hike’ in the title of anything, they won’t even consider it.” Sarah Price.…

1
Nathan Jones - Discover a Guide 30:20

1+ y ago30:20

30:20

Staff Sergeant Nathan Jones is an Adventurous TrainingInstructor (ATI) in the Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC), Nathan is on a mission to transform people's lives through the power of the outdoors by connecting wannabe adventurers with professional guides and instructors through the Discover A Guide platform.…

1
Rhys Wheldon-Roberts - Partnerships officer at Cwm Idwal. 45:19

1+ y ago45:19

45:19

Rhys works for a combination of the National Trust, theEryri National Park and Natural Resources Wales. He is the warden and public engagement officer for the National Nature Reserve that contains Cwm Idwal.

1
Rob Pugh - Chair of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors 43:22

1+ y ago43:22

43:22

Rob is the current Chair of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI). He is a keen climber, freelance mountaineering instructor and technical advisor based in the South Lakes. He offers offer Rock Climbing Instructor (RCI), Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) and Climbing Wall Development Instructor(CWDI) courses. He can provide guiding, and …

1
David Elias – Author of Shaping the Wild 54:02

1+ y ago54:02

54:02

David is a conservationist and naturalist, and this book isa story of nature, farming, conservation and reconciliation in the Welsh uplands. It is set on one particualr farm and we get to learn about that farm, the people who work there, their history and the story of their land. It's a great read. In this podcast we discuss some of the issuesraise…

1
Shane Ohly – CEO of Ourea Events 49:56

1+ y ago49:56

49:56

Shane is the Chief Executive Officer of Ourea events. OureaEvents are well known as the organisers of challenging running events such asthe Dragon’s Back Race and the Cape Wrath Trail Run. He is a seasoned eliterunner and extreme climber himself; he currently holds the record for thefastest unsupported round of the Lake District Classic Rock Routes…

1
Chris Forrest – Chief Instructor Joint Services Mountain Training, 43:26

1+ y ago43:26

43:26

Chris Forrest – Chief Instructor Joint Services Mountain Training, former Senior Instructor at Plas y Brenin and Instructor at Glenmore Lodge. UIAGM Guide, Kayak and Canoe Coach, Climber, skier, paddler and family man.

1
Alec Young - Plastic Free yr Wyddfa Officer 52:14

1+ y ago52:14

52:14

Alec works for the Eryri National Park and is the projectmanager for the Yr Wyddfa Plastic Free project. The project is about much more than just plastic. Listed to Alec explain what is going on, why it's important, how it's making a difference and how you can help. Can Snowdon become the world’s first ‘plastic free’ mountain?…

1
Rich Griffiths, Chair Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team 43:16

1+ y ago43:16

43:16

Rich is a climber, walker, biker and A&E Consultant. He heads up the medical team for Ourea Events and is an active member of, and doctor with, the busiest mountain rescue team in the country.

1
Rory Francis, Director of the Snowdonia Society 50:27

1+ y ago50:27

50:27

The Snowdonia Society is a member-based conservation charity that works with local communities, organisations, businesses and individuals to help look after Snowdonia. Since 1967 the Snowdonia Society has worked tirelessly to ensure that Snowdonia is well-protected, well-managed and enjoyed by all.

1
Helen Pye – Assistant Director, Head of Consultancy, of the National Trust in Wales 49:46

1+ y ago49:46

49:46

Mountain Leader, Nature Friendly Farmer, former Bannau Brycheiniog Ranger, former Yr Wyddfa Warden, Former Head Warden and Senior Manager at Eryri National Park; Helen Pye chats about her new role at the National Trust theland the Trust own, how it’s managed and a few other tangents besides.

1
Fiona and Rob Nicholson - Plas Coch Hotel, Llanberis 45:14

1+ y ago45:14

45:14

Former headteachers Fiona and Rob Nicholson have beenrunning Gwesty Plas Coch in Llanberis since 2019. Their vision was to develop Plas Coch as part of the outdoor community whilst themselves working hard to become part of their new home village community. Their knowledge of the Eryri mountains and lakes have helped them to establish themselves and…

1
Phill George 43:19

2y ago43:19

43:19

Phill has been an active mountaineer for over 40 years.During that time he has completed the Winter Mountain Climbing Instructor (WMCI) qualification and the British Mountain Guides scheme (IFMGA) which qualifies him for all aspects of mountaineering activities world wide. Phill is a qualified teacher and has worked for private and local Education …

1
Pete Edwards - Climbing Coach 46:36

2y ago46:36

46:36

Pete Edwards owns and runs his own business, Prowess Climbing Coaching; helping climbers of all abilities and ages to not only improve their climbing grade but also their enjoyment of their climbing by helping improve technical, tactical and psychological skills. Prowess also provides coach education courses, including the BMC FUNdamentals of Climb…

1
Tom Carrick, BMC Wales Access and Conservation Officer 57:23

2y ago57:23

57:23

In a wide ranging conversation with Tom about his role and how he comes to be doing it we touch on all sorts of things, including the fact that it didn't freeze on Clogwyn Ddu (850m) at all last winter!

1
Mal Creasey - retired 47:52

2y ago47:52

47:52

Mal Creasey has influenced thousands of mountain leaders, instructors and guides in a climbing career spanning over 60 years. He worked as the Technical Officer for Mountain Training England, as a Guide in the Alps and as amember of staff at Plas y Brenin. He was involved in the first two MIA (now MCI) courses, he’s an author, writer and is still a…

1
Dewi Davies - revisited 54:45

2y ago54:45

54:45

Dewi Davies is the Project Manager for National Trust Cymru focussing on the Uwch Conwy catchment in the east of Eryri National Park. Dewi leads a team of people on the restoration of nature,predominantly peatland at the head of the river basin, but also working on rivers and their catchments to improve habitats by restoring natural processes and i…

1
Paule Poole of Paul Poole Mountaineering 1:07:31

2y ago1:07:31

1:07:31

Paul Poole runs a range of mountain based training courses in north Wales. He's a very popular provider of the Mountain Leader Courses and the Rock Climbing Instrucotor courses. Paul also runs trips to Scotland, Morocco and Nepal. Listen in to find out more about him and the way he does things.