Mongabay Newscast

Mongabay is one of the most respected names in environmental journalism, and their podcast delivers the same level of rigor in audio form. Hosted and produced by Mike DiGirolamo, the Mongabay Newscast drops every other week and features in-depth interviews with scientists, conservationists, activists, and investigative reporters covering environmental stories from around the globe. What makes this show valuable is its scope. While many nature podcasts stick to charismatic megafauna or North American ecosystems, Mongabay regularly covers tropical forests in Southeast Asia, mining conflicts in South America, wildlife trafficking in Africa, and ocean conservation everywhere. The show includes a "stop the tape" segment for fact-checking and context, which is a nice journalistic touch that sets it apart from more casual interview formats. With 344 episodes and a 4.7 rating, it has earned credibility over years of consistent output. The tone is serious without being heavy-handed. DiGirolamo gives his guests space to explain complex environmental issues, and the conversations often reveal stories that get zero coverage in mainstream media. If you care about biodiversity loss, deforestation, or climate policy beyond just the headlines, this is essential listening. Episodes typically run 30 to 45 minutes and provide enough depth to genuinely inform your understanding of what's happening on the ground in critical ecosystems worldwide.