Sound, Grief & How Nature Helps Us Heal — A Walk with Brian d’Souza

In this episode, we walk with sound artist and producer Brian d’Souza to explore the power of deep listening, nature, and sound as tools for creativity and healing. Brian shares the story behind his work with bio-sonification, field recording and Ambient Flo, and opens up about losing his father during lockdown. A grounded, thoughtful conversation about sound, grief and how nature helps us reconnect. In this reflective walk through London’s Alexandra Palace grounds, we’re joined by Brian d’Souza — award-winning sound artist, DJ and founder of A State Of Flo and Ambient Flo. Together, we explore how nature, sound and creative practice can become lifelines during overwhelming moments in life. Brian shares: How lockdown shifted his awareness of the seasons, soundscapes and the natural world The origins of Ambient Flo, and why listening became essential during a time of global uncertainty How field recording and “deep listening” changed his relationship with creativity and presence The science and art behind bio-sonification — turning the electrical signals of plants into music What nature teaches us about interconnectedness, sound, and attention His experience of losing his father during lockdown, and how walking and nature became part of navigating grief The role of responsibility, lineage and “stepping up” after loss This episode beautifully weaves together creativity, sound, ecology, grief and healing — all through the lens of a walk outside. KEY THEMES / TAKEAWAYS Nature as lifeline: How walking and open space helped Brian through lockdown and loss. Deep listening: Using attention and presence to reconnect with the natural world. Soundscapes & ecology: Understanding the layers of sound — geological, biological, human — and their impact on wellbeing. Bio-sonification: Turning plant bioelectricity into musical expression. Grief & responsibility: Processing the death of a parent through nature, movement and reflection. Creativity & healing: How sound, attention and ritual connect us to ourselves. Brian d’Souza is an award-winning sound artist, DJ, producer and live performer known for blending field recording, global influences and electro-acoustic techniques. Through his work as Auntie Flo, A State Of Flo and Ambient Flo, Brian explores the psychological, ecological and healing potential of sound. His innovative work has been featured by the BBC, Tate Modern, Glastonbury, New Scientist, The Guardian and more. http://www.briandsouza.in/ http://www.astateofflo.com www.soniferous.app https://www.instagram.com/auntie._.flo/ https://auntieflo.bandcamp.com/ Join the journey https://linktr.ee/whereareweheadingpod Credits Hosts: Kim and Dan Guest: Brian d’Souza Podcast: Where Are We Heading? Logo Design: Jane Hogan Illustrates Music & Production: Kim Recorded in: Alexandra Palace, UK