A monthly show where we get to talk and learn about all things ecological, including interviews with top ecologists (both employers and employees), those workin...
#50 - The Life of Batman: An In-depth Conversation with Richard Crompton
Welcome to the Ecology Academy podcast, where host Richard Dodd interviews Richard Crompton from Ecology On Demand. Dive into a fascinating discussion as Richard shares insights from his 26-year career in bat and ecology work, focusing on his unique consulting service dedicated to supporting fellow ecologists. Discover the intricacies of ecological licenses, the significance of staying updated with technological advancements, and the importance of hands-on training through Richard's ventures like Team Bat.
Explore Richard's ambitious project aimed at transforming a country estate into a sanctuary for bats while fostering community and employment. Learn about the upcoming tech conference for ecologists, designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their field. Richard also touches upon the evolving ecology guidelines and their impact on the industry.
Engage with this conversation to gain insights into the challenges and triumphs within the ecological sector and find inspiration to contribute to a sustainable natural environment. Stay curious, be adventurous, and build bridges for a better tomorrow.
About Richard Crompton
Richard started studying bats whilst volunteering with the National Trust aged just 16. He was licensed in Wales by the age of 22 and undertaking commercial bat surveys. Skip forward 25 years and he has surveyed well over one thousand sites for bats, held dozens of European Protected Species licences since 2001 for more than a dozen different species of bats, delivered training throughout the England and Wales (to several thousand people). He spent nine years as a Trustee for the Bat Conservation Trust and has been an author/editorial board member for all four editions of the bat survey guidelines. Founder and co-director of award winning consultancy Wildwood Ecology Ltd until 2016 he now runs the Ecology on Demand bat advice service, the Bat Training partnership (who have trained over 300 people for their bat licences between 2008-2020) and the Team Bat online platform. He was elected to the Bat Conservation Trusts' Batty Hall of Fame in 2022 and is their 'agony uncle' for the Ecologists Anonymous - bat mitigation workshops. He is currently the resident bat advisor for the Crown Estate at Windsor Park, Cardigan Castle, The Museum of Welsh Life at St Fagans Cardiff, and Margam Park and Castle near Port Talbot - all great sites for bats!
Connect with Richard Crompton on LinkedIn
Find out more at Ecology on Demand or Team Bat
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#49 - The Travelling Ecologist: Mark Roper shares tales from New Zealand and Europe
Happy New Year!
Join Richard Dodd in this episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he sits down with Mark Roper, an experienced ecologist and consultant from New Zealand, who shares his fascinating journey in the world of ecology. With over 15 years in ecological consulting, Mark discusses his transition from freshwater fish surveys to a deep passion for bat conservation, both in New Zealand and Europe.
Mark delves into the challenges and opportunities he encountered while working with bats, including the rigorous certification process in New Zealand and the hands-on experience he gained in Finland and Sweden. He highlights the importance of social media in connecting with experts worldwide, allowing him to expand his knowledge and contribute to various conservation projects.
The conversation also explores the parallels and differences in ecological consultancy between New Zealand and Europe, emphasizing the significance of communication, project management, and understanding the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Mark's dedication to lifelong learning and collaboration shines through as he shares insights on how aspiring ecologists can leverage technology and global networks to enhance their careers.
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markroyroper/
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#48 - Unlocking Biodiversity Net Gain: Insights and Challenges for Ecologists
Join Richard Dodd and repeat guest Julia Baker on the final Ecology Academy podcast of 2024 as they delve into the significant legal changes surrounding biodiversity net gain in 2024. This episode explores the roles of ecologists, developers, and local authorities in implementing these new practices, focusing on both small and large-scale projects. Discover what practitioners have learned over the year, the challenges faced, and the collaborative efforts across various sectors to enhance our natural environments.
Julia shares her personal experiences and highlights the importance of early engagement in development projects. The episode also covers the need for effective communication and training to support all stakeholders involved, and how case studies are now starting to emerge as valuable resources for best practice.
Don't miss out on this informative discussion about biodiversity conservation, the regulatory landscape in different regions, and the outlook for the coming year. Whether you're an experienced ecologist or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the evolving world of biodiversity net gain.
Wishing you Happy Holidays too and see you in the New Year!
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Julia is the Technical Director of Nature Services at Mott MacDonald. Julia is the lead author of the UK’s Good Practice Principles on Biodiversity Net Gain, and has designed BNG for several infrastructure developments including transport, energy and housing. Julia was named on the ENDS Power List in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and is Chair of the ICE’s Nature and Biodiversity Taskforce.
Link to the Mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain - New Guidance for Practitioners from IEMA: https://www.iema.net/resources/blogs/2024/06/mandatory-biodiversity-net-gain-new-guidance-for-practitioners-from-iema-june-2024/
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#47 - Exploring AI's Role in Ecology and Beyond: A Conversation with Tim Cook on becoming more AI Confident
Join Richard Dodd in this episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he delves into the intersection of ecology and artificial intelligence with Tim Cook, the founder of AI Confident. Tim shares insights about his company, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering organizations to make informed decisions about AI adoption, particularly those new to the technology.
The conversation explores how AI can be responsibly integrated into various sectors, including education and ecology, and addresses the ethical considerations and biases associated with AI technologies. Tim also discusses the importance of maintaining human elements in workflows and the potential of AI to enhance rather than replace human skills.
The episode provides valuable perspectives on the future of AI, its implications for jobs and skills in the ecology sector, and the importance of fostering informed discussions within organizations. Whether you're an ecologist, an AI enthusiast, or just curious about the future of technology, this episode offers thoughtful insights and practical advice.
Connect with Tim Cook on LinkedIn or visit AI Confident to learn more about how they help organisations with a purpose, to adopt and adapt to AI technology responsibly, thoughtfully & mindfully.
Also, here's the link to Better Images of AI as discussed in the pod: https://betterimagesofai.org/
Join us for a live event to equip managers, leaders, and business owners of environmental consultancies with essential and ethically-led AI skills and tools. Unlock the Power of AI for Your Environmental Consultancy
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#46 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Join host Richard Dodd in this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast as he delves into the topic of imposter syndrome and its impact on ecologists. After a summer hiatus, Richard returns to explore the challenges faced by professionals in the ecological field, particularly those striving for career advancement and leadership roles.
Richard shares his personal journey with imposter syndrome, discussing the common feelings of self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud. He provides valuable insights into recognizing and acknowledging these feelings, along with practical strategies to challenge negative thoughts and celebrate achievements.
Listeners will gain an understanding of how imposter syndrome can manifest in their lives and learn techniques to manage it effectively. Richard emphasizes the importance of seeking support, embracing growth opportunities, and practicing self-compassion to overcome imposter syndrome and thrive as an ecologist.
Tune in to discover how to navigate the imposter cycle and turn challenges into opportunities for personal and professional development.
Hidden Potential Coaching
If Imposter Syndrome is holding you back, then schedule a call with Richard Dodd, accredited Coach and Mentor. Understand what motivates you, your team or your business. Uncover resistances to change. Take action that aligns with what is truly important to you and others.
Schedule a free and confidential consultation call and discussion with Richard by visiting his website: https://hiddenpotentialcoaching.net/
Ecology Academy Courses
The Ecology Academy has a range of courses that can help you acquire and build the skills you need to succeed as an effective ecologist. Find out what's on offer here: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
A monthly show where we get to talk and learn about all things ecological, including interviews with top ecologists (both employers and employees), those working with ecologists, and also aspiring and inspiring career-seeking individuals setting out to make a difference. New episodes released first Monday of the month.
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