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Mama Earth Talk

by Mariska Nell

What happens when you wear your own trash for 30 days?You start a podcast. Welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for eco-curious individuals and conscious businesses who want to make a real difference, live lighter on the planet, and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell, founder and host of Mama Earth Talk—a sustainability advocate, and passionate believer in progress over perfection. With a Master’s in Sustainable Design, postgraduate studies in Environmental Science, and years of hands-on experience, I’m here to help you take meaningful, heart-led action that works in real life. Mama Earth Talk shares an episode every second month packed with inspiring guest interviews, uplifting good news stories, and practical insights to keep you grounded and motivated. We also offer themed seasons, each diving deeper into specific topics like low-waste living, sustainable business, and planet-positive design—giving y

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Episodes

  1. 208: How to Grow Your Own Food in a Small Space with Christy Wilhelmi

    TL;DR In this episode of the Mama Earth Talk podcast, host Mariska Nell talks with Christy Wilhelmi, founder of Gardenerd and author of five books, who grows 50–70% of her family’s produce in under 300 square feet using bio-intensive gardening. The big takeaway: healthy soil, not chemicals,...

  2. 207: Why Table Salt Isn’t Real Salt (And the Desert Salt That Is) with Samantha Skyring

    TL;DR In this episode, we talk to Samantha Skyring, founder of Oryx Desert Salt. She grew up in South Africa, built and sold an aviation refurbishment business by 21, ran a kayaking expedition company on Lake Malawi, and eventually sold her house to buy 34 tons of Kalahari Desert salt with no...

  3. 206: Solving the Global Water Crisis for Just 30 Cents with Kurt Avery

    In this episode, we talk to Kurt Avery. He is the owner and founder of Sawyer Products and someone who has dedicated his life to solving one of the world’s most urgent challenges, access to clean water, through innovation, partnerships, and a business model that gives back by donating 90% of…

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  4. 205: Earth Month: Small Steps, Big Impact (Plus a Special Gift for You!) with Mariska Nell

    In this episode, I share why Earth Month holds such a special place in my heart, how a bold experiment in 2018 sparked meaningful conversations around waste, and why sustainability doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We explore how small, realistic steps can create real impact, and I also share an...

  5. 204: What It Really Takes to Build a Sustainable Product (From a Bootstrapped Founder)

    In this episode, I shares the real story behind building a sustainable hard-goods brand in the pet industry, unpacking the engineering, manufacturing, certification, and financial trade-offs that most people never see. From design constraints and material decisions to B Corp, 1% for the Planet…

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  6. 203: It’s Not Just Toilet Paper: The Hidden Cost of Everyday Products (and What to Do Instead) with Sahar Karoubi

    In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, we talk to Sahar Karoubi, founder of Bambuyu, a sustainable tissue company challenging the way everyday household products are made and consumed. Together, we unpack something most of us use daily, toilet paper, and explore the hidden systems behind it, from...

  7. 202: How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe with Julia Dietmar, Co-Founder of OpenWardrobe.

    In this episode, we chat with Julia Dietmar, Co-Founder and CEO of OpenWardrobe, a platform helping people use what they already own and make smarter fashion choices. Julia shares how a messy closet sparked her sustainability journey, how OpenWardrobe helps digitize closets and plan outfits with...

  8. 201: Plant-Based Holiday Tips with Molly Patrick: Simple, Joyful, and Sustainable Eating for You and Mama Earth

    In this episode, we talk to Molly Patrick, — co-founder & CEO of Clean Food Dirty Girl, certified life coach, and straight-talking expert in whole-food, plant-based eating. Molly shares her unconventional roots, why progress beats perfection, and specific ways to add joyful, plant-powered dishes…

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  9. 200: Embrace your Ideas: The world needs you, celebrating our 200th episode.

    In this conversation, Mariska emphasizes the importance of sharing unique ideas and stories, highlighting that the world needs diverse voices rather than a few perfect examples. She advocates for embracing imperfection, especially in the context of sustainability, and encourages listeners to…

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  10. 199: Beyond Box-Ticking: Building Trust and Impact with Jim Massey

    In this episode, we talk to Jim Massey. He is the best-selling author of Trust in Action and the soon-to-be-released Risk in Action. He’s also the founder of Eastward, a company rethinking how organizations see and act on risk. A former Chief Sustainability Officer at AstraZeneca and Zai Lab, Jim...

  11. 198: Coffee Watch: A Mission for Change with Etelle Higonnet

    In this episode, we talk to Etelle Higonnet. She is the Founder & Director of Coffee Watch. A graduate of Yale Law School, she's an attorney and environmental and human rights activist. She previously worked at Mighty Earth, National Wildlife Federation, Greenpeace, Amnesty International, and…

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  12. 197: The Role of Earthworms in Soil Health with Sam Baker

    In this episode, we talk to Sam Baker. He shares his journey from studying chemistry and pyrotechnics to founding Wriggle Brew, a company focused on creating sustainable fertilizers using earthworms. He discusses the environmental challenges posed by synthetic fertilizers, the importance of soil...

  13. 196: Why National Parks Matter

    In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, host Mariska shares her transformative experience hiking through Yellowstone National Park, emphasizing the beauty and importance of national parks for conservation, mental health, and cultural heritage. She discusses the challenges these parks face, including...

  14. 195: The Ground Beneath Our Feet: A Hidden Climate Solution — with Rebecca Tickell

    In this episode, we talk to Rebecca Tickell. She is an award-winning environmental filmmaker, activist, and co-director of Kiss the Ground and Common Ground, two powerful documentaries that spotlight the role of regenerative farming in healing our planet. During this episode, we dive into the...

  15. How to Support the Mama Earth Talk Podcast

    Ever wondered how you can support Mama Earth Talk? In this special bonus episode, I (Mariska) answer the many requests from our amazing community about how to help us grow and continue spreading sustainability inspiration. Ways to Support the Podcast: 1. Listen to...

  16. Mama Earth Talk: Real Stories, Honest Advice & a Greener Way Forward – Why Mama Earth Talk? What to Expect & How You’ll Be Inspired [Trailer]

    Hello and welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for busy, eco-curious individuals and businesses who want to make a real difference, live a little lighter on the planet... and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell, Founder and host of Mama Earth Talk and Tails and Tones....

  17. Mama Earth Talk: The Thank You Episode – Behind the Mic, Beyond the Mission

    In this special episode, I’m hitting pause—not on the podcast, but on the journey—to say thank you. From the very first episode to now, over 180 episodes later, Mama Earth Talk has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined… and it’s all thanks to you—our amazing guests, loyal...

  18. 194: Is Coldplay’s Eco-Tour the Real Deal or Just Greenwashing? A Deep Dive into Sustainable Touring

    In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, Mariska explores Coldplay's sustainability efforts during their world tour. She discusses the band's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, innovative solutions for sustainable touring, and the importance of transparency in their environmental claims. The...

  19. 193: Hope in Action with Dr. Jane Goodall

    In this episode, we celebrate the incredible life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall — world-renowned primatologist, environmentalist, and lifelong advocate for animals and the planet. During this very special episode, we reflect on her 91st birthday and share highlights from a rare and personal...

  20. 192: Plugging the Past, Protecting the Future: Curtis Shuck on Fixing Abandoned Wells

    In this episode, we talk to Curtis Shuck. He is the Founder and Chairman of the Well-Done Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to tackling the environmental challenges posed by the millions of orphaned and abandoned oil and gas wells. During this episode we dig deep into the scale of…

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  21. 191: Revolutionizing Philanthropy and Fighting Factory Farming with Thom Norman

    In this episode, we talk to Thom Norman. He is trailblazer in the fight against factory farming and the founder of FarmKind—the first organization to use research-backed insights from GivingMultiplier.org to address this critical issue. FarmKind helps donors maximize their impact by splitting...

  22. 190: Empowering Conservation with Brett Jenks: Rare’s Global Impact on Climate and Sustainability

    In this episode, we talk to Brett Jenks, who leads Rare, a global organization empowering communities to protect and manage natural resources sustainably. As CEO, he has driven initiatives like Fish Forever—the world’s largest coastal fishery recovery effort—and has blended behavioral science…

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  23. 189: Sustainable Packaging Unwrapped with Wendy Jedlička

    In this episode, we talk to Wendy Jedlička. She has a strong background in design, manufacturing, and business. As a Lifetime Certified Packaging Professional and certified Sustainability Associate, she brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable design and business strategies. She is the…

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  24. 188: Bread, Buckwheat, and Bold Moves: Maddie Hamann’s Journey with PACHA

    In this episode, we talk to Maddie Hamann, a remarkable individual with a journey that spans diverse fields. She began with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, followed by a Ph.D. in Oceanography, and went on to manage large-scale projects, ranging from research campaigns to art installations.…

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  25. 187: Sustainable Business Insights: Paul Hargreaves on B Corp and The Fourth Bottom Line

    In this episode, we talk to Paul Hargreaves, the CEO of Cotswold Fayre and Flourish, two award-winning businesses committed to sustainability. Paul's company was one of the first in the UK to certify as a B Corp, setting a powerful example for other companies looking to balance purpose and…

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  26. 186: Circular Economy in Action

    In this episode, we dive into the concept of the circular economy, exploring how it differs from the traditional linear model and why it’s essential for a sustainable future. From understanding the role of design in extending product lifecycles to discovering innovative companies like Loop by...

  27. 185: From Milestones to Community A Journey in Sustainability and Connection

    In this episode, I am thrilled to return after a brief hiatus to share some exciting personal and professional updates. I recently graduated with a post-grad degree in Environmental Science, making the Dean's List, and am now diving into a Master's in Sustainable Design with a focus on…

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  28. 184: Virtual Reality, Real Impact with Briege Whitehead

    In this episode, we talk to Briege Whitehead. She is the Founder and Creative Director of White Spark Pictures, driven by a passion for storytelling. Through her innovative work in film, she inspires change and elevates environmental awareness. A critically acclaimed director and executive...

  29. 183: How Environmental Impact Assessment Shapes Our Sustainable Future: Insights with Angus Morrison-Saunders

    In this episode, we talk to Angus Morrison-Saunders. He is an Environmental Impact Assessment expert with over 35 years of experience. He has excelled in academia, research, and consultancy as well as an editor of leading EIA journals and a dedicated environmental consultant, who has…

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  30. 182: From Green Hues to Environmental Blues: Decoding Eutrophication's Impact with Mariska Nell

    In this episode, I share with you one of the important topics that I looked out in depth this year, that is eutrophication. It might seem like a big word and if you are wondering what am I talking about, well it simple terms it is mainly the greenish water that you might often come across in some...

  31. 181: Adventures for change with Lisa Blair

    In this episode, we talk to Lisa Blair. She is a record holding sailor, that only started her sailing journey at the age of 25 and in seven short years, started making history. She was the first woman to sail solo around Antarctica with one stop, overcoming a dramatic dismasting at sea. She went…

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  32. 180: 1% for the Planet: Pioneering Global Environmental Solutions with Kate Williams

    In this episode, we talk to Kate Williams. She is the CEO at 1 % for the Planet. Founded in 2002 it is a global movement inspiring businesses and individuals to support environmental solutions. Her relentless dedication to environmental sustainability has made her a driving force in corporate...

  33. 179: Green Amendments for a Sustainable Future with Maya van Rossum

    In this episode, we talk to Maya van Rossum. She is the founder of Green Amendments For the Generations, a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to securing constitutional recognition and protection of environmental rights. She has been a passionate advocate for the health of the Delaware...

  34. 178: Sailing the waves of change a conversation with Captain Paul Watson

    In this episode, we talk to Captain Paul Watson. He is a true legend in, marine wildlife conservation and environmental activist. As one of the founding members of Greenpeace (which he left in 1977) and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, Captain Watson has spent his life fighting…

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  35. 177: Reducing Plastic Pollution with Doug Woodring

    In this episode, we talk to Doug Woodring. He is the Founder and Managing Director at Ocean Recovery Alliance. He was also awarded the coveted Prince's Prize for Innovative Philanthropy from Prince Albert of Monaco for his work in this space. He is the originator and initiator of Rebound Plastic...

  36. 176: Changing the way we milk with Alicia Long

    In this episode, we talk to Alicia Long. She is the founder and CEO of Nutr, a sustainable wellness brand that is changing the way we consume milk. She has been featured in major outlets such as Good Morning America, TODAY Show, Forbes, New York Magazine, Women’s Health. During this episode we...

  37. 175: Why saying no to shark fin soup is so important with Andrea Richey

    In this episode, we talk to Andrea Richey. She is an animal activist, educator, TEDx Speaker and know by many as the Shark Lady. She is the Executive director of the Hong Kong Shark Foundation where she is reaching out to over 10,000 students annually to encourage them to say no to shark fin…

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  38. 174: How dogs are assisting with scientific research with Kayla Fratt

    In this episode, we talk to Kayla Fratt. She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and the founder of K9 Conservationists and extremely dedicated to effective and humane dog training methods. During this episode we talked about how these K9’s are doing their part for the environment when it…

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  39. 173: One Green Thing with Heather White

    In this episode, we talk to Heather White. She is the founder and CEO of One Green Thing, Sustainability and climate leader, eco-anxiety expert, speaker and the author of “One Green Thing: Discover Your Hidden Power to Help Save the Planet” and referred to by Erin Brockovich as the Brené Brown of...

  40. 172: Setting Goals with Mariska Nell

    In this episode, I share with you some of the important progress we have made in the climate change fight. What I am excited for in 2023 and also provide you with some tips on how you can start setting goals for your sustainable journey. Links from the episodes: 143: How To Save Our Oceans With…

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  41. 171: Why Coral Reefs are important with Shelby Thomas

    In this episode, we talk to Shelby Thomas. She is the founder and CEO of the Ocean Rescue Alliance a marine conservation and restoration non-profit organization. She is also the CEO of the 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project as well as a PhD Candidate with the University of Florida. During this...

  42. 170: Green Business making a difference with Billy Fetzner

    In this episode, we talk to Billy Fetzner. He is an ecopreneur, podcaster, and coach working to make the world a greener place by helping ecopreneurs scale their businesses through the power of harnessing their own creativity. During this episode we talked about how his sustainable journey…

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  43. 169: The future of farming with Lina Yarysh

    In this episode, we talk to Lina Yarysh. She is the Head of Customer Success Manger at EOS Data Analytics, a global provider of AI-powered satellite imagery analytics. During this episode we talked about how satellites and AI can revolutionize the agricultural industry, reducing food and water...

  44. 168: Sustainable Investing with Zach Stein

    In this episode, we talk to Zach Stein. He is the co-founder of Carbon Collective, the first online investment advisor 100% focused on solving climate change with a clear theory of change around 100% divestment from fossil fuels, reinvestment into science-based climate solutions, and shareholder...

  45. 167: Sailing to sustainability with Leonardo Zangrando

    In this episode, we talk to Leonardo Zangrando. He is a Transformational Coach helping gamechangers who want to make the World a better place, look beyond their current horizon to multiply their impact. Founder of Startups 4 Oceans. During this episode we talked about Leonardo’s upcoming journey...

  46. 166: How to create Sustainability Starter Kits with Mariska Nell

    In this episode I will be sharing with you How to create Sustainability Starter Kits, This three sustainability kits will reduce the time you spend searching for your reusable items and zero waste essentials. Making it easier for you to be zero waste with less effort. MY SUSTAINABILITY DRAWER...

  47. 165: Why is creativity important in sustainability with Mari Reisberg

    In this episode, we talk to Mari Reisberg. She is a therapist, performer, creativity coach, and host of the Sustaining Creativity Podcast. She holds a BFA in Acting from the Hartt School and an MA in Somatic Counseling Psychology, Dance/Movement Therapy, from Naropa University. During this…

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  48. 164: Zero Waste Tips for the bathroom with Mariska Nell

    In this episode, we take a look at Zero Waste Tips for the bathroom. How you can reduce your waste with a few simple steps During this episode we talked about what is zero waste, tips on reducing waste and then take a deep dive into what pesky plastics are lurking in your bathroom and provide you...

  49. 163: How we can use all the resources from sustainable energy with John Belizaire

    In this episode, we talk to John Belizaire. He is the CEO of Soluna Computing, Inc. John is on a mission to reimagine the renewable energy grid and to make renewable energy more efficient and environmentally friendly. Soluna is currently focused on some of the biggest unsolved problems for the...

  50. 162: How ethical and sustainable are Lithium batteries with John Cooley

    In this episode, we talk to Dr. John Cooley. He is the co-founder and Chief of Products and Innovation of Nanoramic Laboratories. Where he focus on technology development and commercialization. He has led the execution of Nanoramic’s first product lines. He co-authored multiple winning grant...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

What happens when you wear your own trash for 30 days?You start a podcast.

Welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for eco-curious individuals and conscious businesses who want to make a real difference, live lighter on the planet, and do it all without the pressure to be perfect.

I’m Mariska Nell, founder and host of Mama Earth Talk—a sustainability advocate, and passionate believer in progress over perfection. With a Master’s in Sustainable Design, postgraduate studies in Environmental Science, and years of hands-on experience, I’m here to help you take meaningful, heart-led action that works in real life.

Mama Earth Talk shares an episode every second month packed with inspiring guest interviews, uplifting good news stories, and practical insights to keep you grounded and motivated.

We also offer themed seasons, each diving deeper into specific topics like low-waste living, sustainable business, and planet-positive design—giving y

HOSTED BY

Mariska Nell

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Mama Earth Talk have?

Mama Earth Talk currently has 212 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Mama Earth Talk about?

What happens when you wear your own trash for 30 days?You start a podcast. Welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for eco-curious individuals and conscious businesses who want to make a real difference, live lighter on the planet, and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell,...

How often does Mama Earth Talk release new episodes?

Mama Earth Talk publishes regularly with 212 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to Mama Earth Talk?

You can listen to Mama Earth Talk on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Mama Earth Talk?

Mama Earth Talk is created and hosted by Mariska Nell.
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