If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! It’s stock taking time! Today I’m checking in with some of the previous guests on the show to see how they’re getting on and what progress they have made since we last spoke. This episode threw up some real curve balls and I had no idea what to expect! Sit back and relax as we kick off the episode with a beautiful quote from Angela Davis speaking back in 1972… Key Takeaways: Global Student Activism:Advancements in Ecocide Law:JoJo MehtaPersonal and Ecological Grief:Robbie Blackhall-MilesCombatting Global Hunger Amidst Climate Crisis:Slow Food InternationalConservation Efforts by Mike Webb:Gwent Wildlife Trust’sChallenging Big Tech's Exploitative Practices:Foxglove LegalYouth-Led Environmental Restoration:Action for Conservation Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian

Should housing be a human right? Today we delve into a transformative solution to homelessness, inspired by Finland’s success. Our guest, Juha Kahila, brings over a decade of expertise and currently serves as the international coordinator of the Y Foundation (Y-Säätiö) in Finland. This episode explores the Housing First approach, showcasing its effectiveness and potential as a global blueprint for ending homelessness. Key Takeaways: Conclusion and How to Get Involved: Juha Kahila’s insights provide a hopeful vision of a world where homelessness can be effectively addressed. For listeners inspired to learn more about initiatives like Housing First, visit the Y Foundation. 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: Juha Kahila Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources Public attitudes towards homelessness: wave one

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Continuing with the food theme… today we explore the vital relationship between agriculture and ecology. Join me as I sit down with George Young, a visionary farmer who has transitioned from conventional to agroecological farming practices. Discover how George integrates biodiversity and sustainable methods to enhance the 'aliveness' of his family farm and the broader implications for our environment and food security. Key Takeaways: Conclusion and How to Connect: George Young's transformative approach to farming not only enhances the biodiversity of his land but also serves as an inspiring model for future generations of farmers. For listeners looking to learn more about sustainable farming practices or to connect with George, visit his blog. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources United Kingdom Food Security Report 2021

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Enjoying your lunch break? Not so fast… Today, we dive into the pressing issue of junk food marketing and its impact on youth with Luke, an 18-year-old school student, food justice campaigner for Bite Back 2030, and youth parliament member. Join us as Luke shares his journey into activism, the significant challenges posed by unhealthy food marketing, and the collective efforts required to forge a healthier future for his, and future generations. Key Takeaways: Conclusion and How to Support the Cause: Luke's passionate call to action highlights the critical need for a united stand against junk food marketing and the implementation of effective solutions to safeguard the health of future generations. For listeners inspired to join the movement or learn more about Bite Back 2030, visit their website. Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources Sigma Nutrition PodcastIt’s Not Your Fault You Can’t Resist Film

Good data, good decision making, values and accountability! A recipe for change. Join us as we engage in a profound conversation with Craig Bennett, CEO of The Wildlife Trusts. This episode navigates Craig's journey to becoming a beacon of environmental activism, the intertwining of politics and conservation, and how leadership shapes the course of environmental advocacy. Delve into Craig's critical views on current global environmental policies, and the imperative role of diverse, youthful voices in forging a sustainable future. Key Takeaways: Conclusion and Insights: Craig Bennett shares valuable lessons from his extensive experience in environmental advocacy, highlighting the critical need for systemic change, personal resilience, and inclusive policymaking. His vision for a sustainable future underscores the complexities of environmental challenges and the collective effort required to address them. For more insights and to support The Wildlife Trusts, visit their website. Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world! Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3700https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow's_hierarchy_of_needs 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 Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

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: Correction: Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources Blood 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 - Seychelles’ 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

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: Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice. Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Mentions & Resources Gwent Wildlife TrustThe Wildlife Trusts 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...

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: 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 Links Chris Smalls Daniel Motaung Frances Haugen Mercy Mutemi Palantir’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-BB1hQuS2 Follow the show: You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts,

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 Gillian Instagram: 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. Produced by Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

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: 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 Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Soundscape from Ulvenhout, Netherlands 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. Produced by Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable -...

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: 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: https://www.actionforconservation.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendrikus-van-hensbergen-a6a2ba37/https://www.actionforconservation.org/penpont Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/ Shout outs and mentions: Robert MacfarlaneDavid OlusogaLaura Martin Soundscape from Lake Erie, Ohio, USA 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

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: 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: Xhttps://www.slowfood.com/ Follow Gillian Instagram: 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 Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for...

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: 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: Instagram Follow Gillian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/ Website:

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 Gillian Instagram: 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 Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

In this compelling episode, Gillian welcomes JoJo Mehta, co-founder and Executive Director of Stop Ecocide International. Join us as we explore the pressing concept of 'Ecocide' and its potential recognition as a criminal act under international law. JoJo discusses the transformative impact such legislation could have on environmental practices and the path to sustainable solutions. Key Takeaways: 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: Stop Ecocide Website Follow Gillian Instagram: 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 Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

"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: 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: LinkedIn Follow Gillian Instagram: 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 Soundquake Edited by Jake-Lee Savage This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy