This interview provides valuable insights into Jack’s career journey and practical advice for aspiring conservationists.

Introduction

Join me in this conservation chat with Jack Cole, a WildHub Core Community member, and the Project and Fundraising Coordinator at Restore Our Planet. Jack has been working at Restore Our Planet since August 2021 and is also host of its podcast series, which started during COVID.

Previously Jack worked as a journalist and English teacher in South America, focusing on South American policy issues. He pursued a master’s degree in Development Management via the Open University, where his thesis explored illegal gold mining in the Amazon. In our conversation, Jack describes how journalism led him to conservation work.

He discusses how firsthand exposure to illegal gold mining and the realities of local communities shaped his understanding of conservation and advocates for community-led approaches rather than top-down methods.

Jack returned to the UK in late 2020 and secured his current position through networking and previous collaborations with Restore Our Planet. Jack highlights the difficulties of entering the conservation field (16:30–20:00 min), including the prevalence of unpaid work and the importance of networking.

Developing a career in conservation (20:00–22:30 min)

Navigating conservation careers can be challenging, but persistence, communication, and passion play key roles. Reflecting on podcasting experiences, Jack highlights that people are generally eager to share their stories, particularly about work they care deeply about. Hosting conversations often helps individuals feel connected to a larger community, especially when they might feel isolated in their work.

The podcast interviews with over 67 experts and reveals a diversity of opinions about pressing conservation issues, but a shared enthusiasm for making a difference. These conversations spotlight personal passions and challenges, showcasing the breadth of approaches and solutions within conservation.

Jack's key advice for aspiring conservationists includes:

• Stay Persistent: Continue applying, networking, and showing up. Even if it takes time, the odds will eventually align.
• Be Passionate: Lead with genuine interest and curiosity—it often resonates with others and opens unexpected opportunities.
• Explore Different Pathways: There’s no single way into conservation; be open to unconventional approaches.

• Be a Facilitator: Networking and collaboration can foster growth—for individuals and communities alike. Jack's personal legacy is focused on amplifying others’ stories rather than seeking the spotlight. His approach emphasizes being a connector and a catalyst for impactful work.

Participation in WildHub has been especially valuable, providing opportunities for sharing knowledge, networking, and even coaching emerging conservationists. Through initiatives like podcasting and coaching, Jack continues to build and contribute to a vibrant, supportive WildHub conservation community.

Jack's Future Vision for the WildHub Community:
The WildHub community has significant growth potential in terms of membership, training opportunities, and networking initiatives. Its expansion could enable more connections, shared resources, and innovative programmes to support conservationists worldwide.

A big thank you to Jack for sharing your insights with me and the wider community! We appreciate everything you do for WildHub!