Renowned British naturalist and BAFTA-winning presenter Steve Backshall is venturing into the world of podcasting with his latest project, That’s Just Wild. Teaming up with wildlife biologist Lizzie Daly and environmental journalist Sarah Roberts, this twice-weekly podcast promises to deliver enthralling tales from the natural world, combining scientific insights with personal anecdotes and a touch of humor. Set to launch on June 3, 2025, the podcast aims to captivate nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
🎙️ Meet the Hosts: A Trio of Nature Enthusiasts
Steve Backshall: The Adventurous Naturalist
Steve Backshall is a household name in wildlife broadcasting, known for his dynamic presentations and fearless explorations. With a career spanning over two decades, he has brought the wonders of the natural world to audiences through shows like Deadly 60 and Expedition with Steve Backshall. His extensive field experience and engaging storytelling make him a compelling voice in nature conservation.
Lizzie Daly: The Marine Biologist and Communicator
Lizzie Daly is a wildlife biologist and broadcaster with a passion for marine life. Her work often focuses on ocean conservation, and she has been featured in various BBC programs discussing marine species and ecosystems. Lizzie’s ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible narratives makes her an invaluable asset to the podcast.
Sarah Roberts: The Environmental Journalist
Sarah Roberts brings a journalistic perspective to the team, with a focus on environmental issues and wildlife conservation. Her reporting delves into the intricate relationships between humans and nature, shedding light on pressing ecological concerns. Sarah’s investigative approach adds depth to the podcast’s discussions.
🐾 What to Expect from “That’s Just Wild”
That’s Just Wild is structured to offer listeners a blend of adventure, education, and entertainment. Each week, the podcast will release two episodes:
- Main Episode (Tuesdays): These episodes will feature firsthand accounts of wildlife encounters, survival stories, and fascinating animal facts. Listeners can anticipate tales from remote expeditions, insights into animal behavior, and discussions on ecological phenomena.
- Q&A Episode (Fridays): In a more interactive format, the hosts will answer questions submitted by listeners. Topics will range from the scientific to the whimsical, such as “Are octopuses aliens?” and “Should zoos still exist?”
The podcast aims to foster a deeper connection between audiences and the natural world, encouraging curiosity and environmental awareness.
❄️ Episode Spotlight: “Freezing”
The inaugural episode, titled “Freezing,” draws from Steve Backshall’s recent Arctic expedition. Listeners will be transported to icy landscapes, exploring themes such as:
- Ice Diving: Experiencing the challenges and wonders of diving beneath frozen surfaces.
- Animal Adaptations: Understanding how Arctic species have evolved to survive extreme cold.
- Close Encounters: Recounting a memorable interaction with walruses in their natural habitat.
This episode sets the tone for the series, combining thrilling narratives with educational content.
🎧 Accessibility and Engagement
That’s Just Wild will be available across all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. To cater to a broader audience, the podcast will also share “snackable” clips on YouTube and TikTok, offering bite-sized insights and highlights.
🌍 The Vision Behind the Podcast
The hosts share a unified vision of inspiring a greater appreciation for the natural world:
- Steve Backshall: “This is the podcast I’ve always wanted to make – wild stories from the front lines of nature, told with honesty, humour, and the occasional scar.”
- Lizzie Daly: “Imagine wildlife, science and funny stories from expeditions in the field, all mixed into a raw and funny conversation… that’s this podcast.”
- Sarah Roberts: “We’re wired to share stories – it’s how humans connect. This show taps into that instinct with wild encounters, narrow escapes, and awe-inspiring facts that help us reconnect with the natural world.”
Their combined expertise and enthusiasm aim to create a platform that is both informative and entertaining, bridging the gap between scientific discourse and public engagement.
📅 Launch Details
- Launch Date: June 3, 2025
- Release Schedule: New episodes every Tuesday and Friday
- Platforms: Available on all major podcast platforms, with additional content on YouTube and TikTok
