Ep.48 (Part 2): Tom Opre – Filmmaker, Conservationist & Wildlife Advocate

Filmmaker, conservationist, and wildlife advocate Tom Opre sits down with Tarek on Y'all Street to explore the differences between conservation and preservation, and why sustainable wildlife management remains one of today's most debated environmental topics. Known for his documentaries Killing the Shepherd and the upcoming Operation: Return of the Wild, Tom uses storytelling to educate audiences on the realities of conservation. In this conversation, Tom explains how modern conservation was built on responsible resource management and the historical role hunters and anglers have played in funding wildlife conservation. He also discusses the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, the challenges facing hunting today, and why active stewardship is essential for protecting natural resources. Tom also shares insights from conservation efforts in Africa, where sustainable use programs help restore wildlife, combat poaching, and support local communities, illustrating how conservation can benefit both people and wildlife. To close the episode, Tom discusses the mission behind Shepherds of Wildlife and why educating the public through storytelling is essential to preserving wildlife for future generations.