If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

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 Path:Boyle's early life and transition from a legal career to documentary filmmaking, fuelled by his love for the ocean.Insights into his unique filming methods and the challenges of capturing the ocean's depths.Confronting Piracy on the High Seas:Experiences with Somali pirates, offering a window into the socio-economic and geopolitical factors at play.Discussion on the international response, including jailing pirates and the involvement of the Russian Navy.Revolutionary Figures and Global Crises:A historical perspective on Cuba under leaders like Castro and Batista.Exploring the duality of good and bad in revolutionary figures.Humanity's Response to Crises:Reflecting on the community spirit during the COVID pandemic and contrasting it with ongoing global crises in places like Yemen and Somalia.Boyle's hypothetical approach to world leadership, focusing on pollution control and population management through radical policies.Advocacy for Systemic Change:The importance of understanding the complexities of global issues and the role of storytelling in advocating for change.Boyle's vision for the future and the need to address systemic issues affecting the most vulnerable populations.Correction:Abduwali Muse was sentenced to 33 years and 9 months (not 99) for hijacking, kidnapping and hostage-taking.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/Mentions & ResourcesBlood Ransom BookThe Rise and Fall of Somali PiratesWaste Dumping off Somali Coast May Have Links to Mafia, Somali WarlordsModern Pirates | Menace On Africa CoastBehind the scenes video from John’s film ‘Pirates in Paradise - Seychel✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 nature preservation. Importantly, we also learn the importance of soldiering on to win the war even if you lose the battle.Key Takeaways:Journey to Environmental Advocacy:Mike Webb shares insights into his early life, university years, and the journey that led him to advocate for nature and politics.The Gwent Levels - A Case Study:Examination of the Gwent Levels, highlighting the area's ecological significance and the threats posed by proposed solar farm developments.The Environmental Cost of Progress:Discussion on the delicate balance between renewable energy profitability and environmental sustainability.The critical need for independent research to fully understand the potential impacts of renewable energy infrastructure on biodiversity.Public Involvement and Policy Challenges:The importance of public involvement in environmental protection efforts.A look into contentious political issues, international law, and the role of legislation in safeguarding natural habitats.Navigating Developer Hurdles and Community Perspectives:The big NIMBY question!Strategies for reconciling community concerns with environmental and development goals.The Future of Renewable Energy and Biodiversity:Mike’s vision for a sustainable future for the Gwent Levels and similar ecosystems.Practical advice for planners and developers on incorporating biodiversity conservation into renewable energy projects.Reflections on Leadership and Environmental Stewardship:Mike's humorous musings on being the 'King of Wales' and ruling the world, tying back to the serious theme of responsible leadership in environmental conservation.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/Mentions & ResourcesGwent Wildlife TrustThe Wildlife TrustsWhat would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedbac✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 relevance to their mission.Exposing Tech Giants:Discussion on the exploitative practices within the tech industry.Foxglove's legal battles against tech giants and government agencies to protect public interests.Case Study - Palantir and NHS Data:A deep dive into the controversies surrounding Palantir's handling of NHS data.The implications for privacy and public health governance.Advocacy for Content Moderators:Foxglove's efforts to secure better treatment and working conditions for content moderators.The broader impact of these battles on labor rights and workplace ethics.Challenging Tech Dominance:Analysis of the adverse effects of tech monopolies on privacy, democracy, and labor rights.Strategies for dismantling such monopolies and promoting a fairer tech landscape.Call to Action:Encouraging collective efforts among tech workers and the public to regulate big tech.How listeners can support Foxglove and similar initiatives in advocating for corporate responsibility and technological equity.Conclusion and Engagement: Rosa Curling and Martha Dark offer a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance and action in the face of digital exploitation. Join us in supporting their cause and taking a stand for a tech world that benefits everyone. For more information on Foxglove and how you can get involved, visit https://www.foxglove.org.uk/References and LinksChris SmallsDaniel MotaungFrances HaugenMercy MutemiPalantir’s own page on their role in healthcare: https://www.palantir.com/uk/healthcare/And :https://www.cityam.com/us-tech-giant-palantir-rejects-concerns-over-role-in-nhs-data-platform-plans/And latest article: https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/palantir-us-tech-firm-with-lucrative-nhs-contract-sees-ai-sales-soar/ar-BB1hQuS2Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 remind myself of the question posed to me by Hal Rhoades of Action for Conservation: “What am I not saying, that I would like to say?”. Join me as I try to power through the ‘red light syndrome’, let the guard rails down, and say what I’ve wanted to say for some time.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/What would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on podcast@gillianburkevoice.comA final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.Produced by SoundquakeEdited by Jake-Lee Savage✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 Takeaways:Candace's Journey into Russian Affairs:An overview of Candace's unexpected foray into studying Russian mercenaries.Her journey from journalism to academia.Nature, Climate Crisis, and Geopolitics:Exploring the intersection of natural phenomena, the climate crisis, and global politics.The impact of these factors on the current geopolitical landscape.Global Changes and Personal Impact:How major global shifts affect individual lives and societal norms.Reflecting on political stories from the 90s and their relevance today.Energy Transition Challenges:Discussing the difficulties in transitioning to sustainable energy sources.The potential workforce implications of such transitions.Digitisation, Decarbonisation, and Democracy:The role of digitisation and decarbonisation in shaping the future of democracy.Candace's insights on digital currencies and their energy consumption.Ethical Leadership for Industrial Change:The critical need for progressive and ethical leadership in industrial and environmental sectors.Candace's views on the moral compass required for preserving a balanced ecosystem.Personal and Global Environmental Connections:Candace's personal relationship with nature and the environment.Discussions on the influence and responsibilities of billionaires in shaping humanity's future.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with Candace:X (Twitter)Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/Soundscape from Ulvenhout, NetherlandsWhat would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on podcast@gillianburkevoice.comA final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 Days:Hendrikus van Hensbergen's founding of AFC, initially a youth-focused charity.The evolution of AFC to encompass broader conservation goals.The Penpont Project Explained:A detailed look at the Penpont project, its aims, and activities.Understanding the project's intergenerational and ecological approach.Cultural and Historical Layers:Exploring the cultural, historical, natural history, and farming aspects integrated into the project.Discussions on identity, indigenous culture, and colonisation.Youth Engagement in Conservation:The significance of involving young people in nature restoration and regeneration.The role of underrepresented perspectives in shaping conservation efforts.Intergenerational Learning and Outdoor Education:The importance of intergenerational learning in environmental stewardship.The impact of outdoor education in fostering a deeper connection to nature.Challenges and Opportunities:Addressing the invisible barriers to change in conservation.Reflections on the potential and challenges faced by environmental charities.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guests:Action for Conservation: https://www.actionforconservation.org/Driky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendrikus-van-hensbergen-a6a2ba37/Penpont Project: https://www.actionforconservation.org/penpontFollow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/Shout outs and mentions:Robert MacfarlaneDavid OlusogaLaura MartinSoundscape from Lake Erie, Ohio, USAWhat would you do if✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 traditional farming offers.Key Takeaways:Challenging Industrial Farming in Africa:Edie's critical view on the adoption of industrial farming practices in Africa.Discussing the negative impacts these practices have on the continent's health and sustainability.Advocating for Traditional Practices:The importance of returning to traditional agricultural methods.Edie's personal experiences as a farmer in the Mukono District of Uganda.Biodiversity and Organic Farming:The role of biodiversity and organic farming in sustainable agriculture.The benefits of agroforestry systems in enhancing ecological health.Impact of Western Consumerism:Critique of the influence of western industrial farming and supermarket consumerism on Africa's food systems.The disconnect between these practices and the needs of African farmers.Preserving Local Knowledge and Seeds:Edie’s commitment to education and advocacy for indigenous farming methods.The importance of preserving local seed biodiversity for future generations.A Call to Action:Positioning African farmers and traditional farming systems as key in resisting the narrative of aggressive industrial farming.Edie's call to recognise and value native knowledge and practices.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Follow Edie on XFind out more about Slow Food International: https://www.slowfood.com/Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/What would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on podcast@gillianburkevoice.comA final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen, and to ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 North Wales. Get ready to explore the transformative power of mindset system change, and why it makes sense to make room for a little bit of magic in our lives! (CORRECTION: Robbie is no longer the chair of the Australasian Plant Society) Key Takeaways:Awe-Inspiring Connection with Nature:Robbie's profound bond with the natural world and how this shapes his worldview.Insights into the creation and significance of his botanical garden in North Wales.Mindset and Systemic Change:The importance of reconnecting with nature from a mindset perspective.How this connection can drive systemic environmental change.Conservation and Spirituality:Discussing how Robbie's conservation work intertwines with his spirituality and reverence for nature.Exploring the holistic approach to environmental conservation.Indigenous Ecological Knowledge:Delving into the concept of indigenous ecological knowledge.Emphasising the value of understanding nature beyond just the scientific lens.Interconnectedness of Life:Robbie's perspective on the interconnectedness of all living things, including humans.The role of humans as part of a larger ecological system.Nurturing Biodiversity:The significance of appreciating each species' role in our ecosystem.Understanding the importance of biodiversity for ecological health.Personal Reflection for Change:Robbie's assertion that systemic change begins from within.Encouraging listeners to introspect, evaluate their beliefs, and consider their role in environmental stewardship.This week's soundscape is from the Grand Sabana region in Venezuela. Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Robbie Blackhall-Miles - ✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

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 introduces Triodos Bank UK, the podcast's sponsor, and shares her excitement about her first guest, Jojo Mehta, the Co-Founder and director of Stop Ecocide International. Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ What would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on podcast@gillianburkevoice.com A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen, and to The Wildlife Trusts for their continued support. Produced by SoundquakeEdited by Jake-Lee Savage✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening

"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 foundation for his perspective on sustainability.The influence of diverse cultural and environmental experiences on his approach to global sustainability challenges.The Role of Patience and Understanding:The importance of empathy in connecting with different groups.Building bridges towards a common vision for a sustainable world.The Transformative Power of Questions:How asking the right questions can lead to impactful actions and decisions.The importance of critical thinking in sustainability.Global Impact of Local Choices:Discussing the ripple effect of decisions made in one part of the world on global communities.The interconnectedness of our actions and their implications.Redefining Sustainability:Challenging traditional concepts of sustainability.Making sustainability more accessible and practical for all.The value of operating both within and outside organisational structures for sustainable goals.Follow the show:You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.Connect with our guest:Kené Umeasiegbu - LinkedInFollow GillianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/What would you do if you ruled the world?If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on podcast@gillianburkevoice.comA final thank you to our wonderful sponsors **Triodos Bank UK** for making this podcast happen, and to The Wildlife Trusts for their continued support.Produced by SoundquakeEdited by Jake-Lee Savage✍️ Sign up for the newsletter on gillianburkevoice.com 🤝 Connect with Gillian on Instagram or email podcast@gillianburkevoice.com 💚🌍✌🏾 Thanks for listening