29 Jan 2026
1h 30m

Bertie Gregory: Saving the Animals (Even the Ones That Are Assholes)

Podcast cover

What Now? with Trevor Noah

Bertie Gregory, a wildlife explorer and documentarian, joins Trevor Noah to discuss his work and the importance of conservation. Gregory emphasizes that his goal is to excite people about the natural world and make them aware of the challenges it faces, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature and human well-being. Gregory explains the concept of "whale pump," where whales facilitate nutrient distribution in the ocean, boosting phytoplankton and krill populations, which aids in carbon capture. He also recounts a harrowing experience in the Arctic where a drug-addicted team member became violent, underscoring that humans can often be the most dangerous element in wildlife expeditions. The discussion also explores the complexities of wildlife tourism, balancing economic benefits with the need to protect animal habitats and behaviors.

Outlines

Part 1: Perspective, Purpose, and Whales

Part 2: Animal Behavior and Fieldwork Realities

Part 3: Conservation Philosophy and Rewilding

Part 4: Tourism and Economic Incentives

Part 5: Lessons from the Wild

Part 6: Industry Impact and Success Stories

Part 7: Inspiration and Coexistence

Sign in to continue reading, translating and more.

Open full episode in Podwise