Learning from the Wild — Writing, Conservation, and Hope with Brenda Scott Royce

What if hope isn’t a feeling—but something you do?From caring for orphaned rhinos to writing books that spark curiosity, this episode explores how learning, conservation, and community come together in powerful ways.In Episode 167 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor is joined by Brenda Scott Royce, author, former primate caregiver, and conservation advocate, for a heartfelt conversation about learning from the natural world.Brenda shares her journey from publishing and primate care to writing books that connect children with animals and conservation. Together, Diane and Brenda reflect on their recent trip to South Africa with Children’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)—from reading aloud to preschoolers to hands-on conservation work at a rhino orphanage.This episode is a reminder that learning happens through curiosity, connection, and action—and that, as Brenda reminds us, hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up.🕒 Episode Chapters & Timestamps01:00 — Writing, Primates, and PurposeFollowing curiosity instead of a straight career path06:30 — Writing Books That Connect Kids to AnimalsStories, nonfiction, and nurturing curiosity08:20 — Helping Children Fall in Love with NatureAccess, observation, and letting kids lead10:05 — Why CBCC and South AfricaTraveling with like-minded creators for conservation15:20 — Meeting Lazula: A Rhino Full-Circle MomentFrom fundraiser photo to bottle-feeding a rhino18:40 — Conservation, Community, and ResponsibilityWhat real change looks like on the ground24:00 — Seeing the Whole EcosystemWhy animals—and learning—aren’t isolated33:30 — Continuing the Work: Chimps in ZambiaSolo conservation work after South Africa38:00 — Hope Is a VerbWhat brings hope right now🔗 Links & ResourcesChildren’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)Wild Tomorrow and blog about the tripPublishers Weekly article about the tripBrenda Scott Royce — books & writingConnect with Brenda on LinkedIn, Instagram, and BlueskySupport the showShare this episodeIf this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague.Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friendStay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.