Should housing be a human right? Today we delve into a transformative solution to homelessness, inspired by Finland’s success. Our guest, Juha Kahila, brings over a decade of expertise and currently serves as the international coordinator of the Y Foundation (Y-Säätiö) in Finland. This episode explores the Housing First approach, showcasing its effectiveness and potential as a global blueprint for ending homelessness. Key Takeaways: Understanding Homelessness in Finland: Juha provides an...

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Continuing with the food theme… today we explore the vital relationship between agriculture and ecology. Join me as I sit down with George Young, a visionary farmer who has transitioned from conventional to agroecological farming practices. Discover how George integrates biodiversity and sustainable methods to enhance the 'aliveness' of his family farm and the broader implications for our environment and food...

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Enjoying your lunch break? Not so fast… Today, we dive into the pressing issue of junk food marketing and its impact on youth with Luke, an 18-year-old school student, food justice campaigner for Bite Back 2030, and youth parliament member. Join us as Luke shares his journey into activism, the significant challenges posed by unhealthy food marketing, and the collective efforts required to forge a healthier future for...

Good data, good decision making, values and accountability! A recipe for change. Join us as we engage in a profound conversation with Craig Bennett, CEO of The Wildlife Trusts. This episode navigates Craig's journey to becoming a beacon of environmental activism, the intertwining of politics and conservation, and how leadership shapes the course of environmental advocacy. Delve into Craig's critical views on current global environmental policies, and the imperative role of diverse, youthful...

Brace yourself, as we embark on a voyage through the profound insights and stories of ex-lawyer turned documentary filmmaker John Boyle and an array of personalities. This episode unravels the complex tapestry of global issues—from piracy and environmental crises to revolutionary politics—through the lens of individual experiences. Most importantly, it poses some questions: Who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? And who get’s to decide? Key Takeaways: John Boyle's Pioneering...

Today, we delve into the complex relationship between renewable energy development and biodiversity conservation. Gillian speaks with Mike Webb from the Gwent Wildlife Trust, exploring the nuanced challenges that solar power station developments pose to biodiversity-rich habitats in South Wales and beyond. While recognising the crucial shift towards green energy, our discussion uncovers the need for strategic, sustainable planning to ensure that this transition supports both progress and...

Today, I’m joined by Rosa Curling and Martha Dark from Foxglove, a pioneering digital rights law firm in the UK. Rosa and Martha share their insights into the tech industry's exploitative practices and Foxglove's role in challenging these behaviours to ensure technology serves the greater good. Key Takeaways: The Mission of Foxglove: Introduction to Foxglove and its commitment to fighting for digital rights and against tech exploitation. The inspiration behind Foxglove's name and its...

Today, is a moment to reflect and express gratitude for our amazing audience & sponsors, and consider the global changes and challenges that have emerged since the inception of the podcast. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel is discussed with strong emphasis on the ever-increasing need for international law to address these issues. I recall conversations with Jojo Mehta, co-founder of 'Stop Ecocide International', around ecocide as an international crime. But most importantly I...

Today, we explore the complex interplay of social, industrial, and environmental factors in shaping our world. In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by Candace Rondeaux, a distinguished investigative journalist and academic. Candace delves into the pressing issues of climate change, discussing the intricate connections between digitisation, decarbonisation, and the future of democracy, and the urgent need for ethical leadership in addressing these global challenges. Key...

Today, we delve into the inspiring world of conservation and intergenerational learning. In this episode, we are joined by Hendrikus van Hensbergen and Hannibal Rhoades, affectionately known as 'Driky' and 'Hal'. Together, they share insights from their work with Action for Conservation (AFC) and the transformative Penpont project, a far-reaching nature restoration effort set in a 2,000-acre Welsh estate in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Key Takeaways: Action for Conservation - The Early...

Welcome back to If I Ruled the World! Today, we explore the transformative power of traditional farming practices. In this insightful episode, we're joined by Edie Mukiibi, a Ugandan agronomist, smallholder farmer, and the President of Slow Food International. Eddie brings a passionate perspective on the critical need to embrace traditional agricultural methods in Africa. He delves into the adverse effects of industrial farming and champions the health, dignity, and sustainability that...

Today, we delve into the profound connections between humans and nature. In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Robbie Blackhall-Miles, a renowned botanist, conservation scientist, and Vice President of the Linnean Society of London (Amongst many other things!). Robbie takes us on a journey through his deep bond with the natural world, sharing experiences as guardian of some of the world’s rarest and most endangered plant specimens, to the creation of his backyard botanical garden in...

"Never get so far ahead of your army that you look like the enemy”. In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Kéne Umeasiegbu, a sustainability and corporate affairs leader with a rich background extending from Nigeria to international arenas. Listen as Kéne shares profound insights on the interplay of patience, understanding, and community in shaping a sustainable future. Key Takeaways: Journey from Nigeria to Global Stage: Kené's upbringing and experiences in Nigeria, setting the...

In this compelling episode, Gillian welcomes JoJo Mehta, co-founder and Executive Director of Stop Ecocide International. Join us as we explore the pressing concept of 'Ecocide' and its potential recognition as a criminal act under international law. JoJo discusses the transformative impact such legislation could have on environmental practices and the path to sustainable solutions. Key Takeaways: Understanding Ecocide: Introduction to the concept of 'Ecocide' and its importance. Advocating...

In the inaugural episode of Gillian Burke's podcast, 'If I Ruled the World,' she shares the purpose and planned trajectory of the series. The podcast aims to explore ideas around system change, engaging with change makers across various sectors to discuss how they would enact positive change if they ruled the world. The podcast intends to delve into how different sectors can contribute to making the world a better place, examining the interconnectedness of human and natural worlds. Burke also...