Mama Earth Talk

Mariska Nell
  • 5.0 (50)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

What happens when you wear your own trash for 30 days? You start a podcast. Welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for eco-curious individuals and conscious businesses who want to make a real difference, live lighter on the planet, and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell, founder and host of Mama Earth Talk—a sustainability advocate, and passionate believer in progress over perfection. With a Master’s in Sustainable Design, postgraduate studies in Environmental Science, and years of hands-on experience, I’m here to help you take meaningful, heart-led action that works in real life. Mama Earth Talk shares monthly episodes packed with inspiring guest interviews, uplifting good news stories, and practical insights to keep you grounded and motivated. We also offer themed seasons, each diving deeper into specific topics like low-waste living, sustainable business, and planet-positive design—giving you the tools and inspiration to make real, lasting impact. Whether you're here to learn something new, feel inspired, or connect with a global community of changemakers—this space is for you. No guilt. No overwhelm. Just real talk, soulful progress, and hopeful stories—one small step at a time. Listen on your favorite podcast app—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, or anywhere you tune in. You can also subscribe at https://mamaearthtalk.com/listen If something in the show speaks to you—or you know someone who’d love it—please share it and leave a review on Podchaser. https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mama-earth-talk-713574 Got questions or just want to say hi? I’m always around on Instagram @mamaearthtalk Mama Earth has a voice—and it is us Crazy Birds. Instagram: @mamaearthtalk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575371374179 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mamaearthtalk Website: https://mamaearthtalk.com/

  1. 203: It’s Not Just Toilet Paper: The Hidden Cost of Everyday Products (and What to Do Instead) with Sahar Karoubi

    2D AGO

    203: It’s Not Just Toilet Paper: The Hidden Cost of Everyday Products (and What to Do Instead) with Sahar Karoubi

    In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, we talk to Sahar Karoubi, founder of Bambuyu, a sustainable tissue company challenging the way everyday household products are made and consumed. Together, we unpack something most of us use daily, toilet paper, and explore the hidden systems behind it, from deforestation and material sourcing to the real impact of “eco” alternatives. Sahar shares how her personal sustainability journey as a mother led her to build Bambuyu, why bamboo stood out as a powerful alternative to traditional tree-based tissues, and what it actually takes to create a sustainable product in a very conventional industry. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00]-Intro [02:59]- The Birth of Bamboo You: A Sustainable Solution [06:02]- Understanding Bamboo vs. Traditional Trees [08:59]- The Process of Creating Bamboo Products [12:03]- The Impact of Small Choices on Sustainability [14:57]- Challenges in Building a Sustainable Business [18:11]- The Journey of a Startup: Lessons Learned [21:05]- Shark Tank Experience and Its Impact [23:55]- Navigating Sustainability and Business Decisions [26:58]- Transparency and Customer Engagement [29:56]- Future Plans for Bamboo You [32:54]- Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners Links from the episodes:Bambuyu on SharkTank Living Lighter, A Practical Guide to Reducing Waste - Online Course by Mariska Nell Download your Free Beginner's Guide To Waste-Free Living Join our newsletter to be part of the change Watch the interview on YouTube Where can people find our guest?Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn - Bambuyu LinkedIn - Sahar TikTok Key Takeaways:Sustainability starts with everyday choices.Bamboo is a sustainable alternative to traditional trees.27,000 trees are cut down daily for toilet paper.Bamboo grows back quickly, making it a renewable resource.Everyday products can be tools for sustainability.Quality matters in sustainable products.Recycled paper involves extensive processing and chemicals.Building a sustainable business comes with unique challenges.Transparency with customers fosters trust and engagement.span...

    39 min
  2. 202: How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe with Julia Dietmar, Co-Founder of OpenWardrobe.

    JAN 5

    202: How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe with Julia Dietmar, Co-Founder of OpenWardrobe.

    In this episode, we chat with Julia Dietmar, Co-Founder and CEO of OpenWardrobe, a platform helping people use what they already own and make smarter fashion choices. Julia shares how a messy closet sparked her sustainability journey, how OpenWardrobe helps digitize closets and plan outfits with AI, and why the most sustainable choice is wearing what you already have. We also explore her Style Blueprint approach and the real impact of fashion’s overproduction and waste.In this episode, we talk to Julia K. Dietmar, Co-Founder & CEO of OpenWardrobe, a platform helping people use what they already own, plan outfits with AI, and plug into circular options like repairs, alterations, and resale. During this episode we look at how a messy closet sparked Julia’s sustainability journey and unpacks what OpenWardrobe actually does—digitize your closet, help you plan outfits, spark AI styling ideas, and plug you into repairs, alterations, and resale, while making the case that the “most sustainable” choice is usually wearing what you already own (cost-per-wear). We share practical ways to buy less and love your wardrobe more, walk through Style Blueprint 101 (your colors, body shape/silhouettes, and style personality), and get real about fashion’s overproduction problem—from “52 seasons” to landfill stats and water impacts. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00]-Intro [02:20] – Welcome to Mama Earth Talk + episode setup [03:17] – Guest intro: Julia K. Dietmar (OpenWardrobe) [04:36] – Julia’s sustainable journey (personal & professional) [05:50] – What is OpenWardrobe? Tools for mindful dressing [06:52] – “I’d never have paired these!”—AI outfit ideas feedback [11:00] – Empowering consumers vs. “just buy sustainable brands” [12:40] – What is sustainable fashion? (The “30 wears” idea) [14:34] – Platform or movement? Why OW is a toolkit first [16:11] – Buying less without trying: versatility kills the urge to shop [21:28] – Style tip: don’t imitate—dress for how you want to feel [23:25] – Resale & repairs: Poshmark integrations; US alterations/repairs [27:40] – Stats you can use: cost-per-wear; carbon footprint (coming later) [29:45] – From 2 to 52 seasons: the overproduction problem [31:55] – Landfill reality; existing clothes could dress six generations [33:12] – One T-shirt = ~700 gallons of water perspective [37:01] – Personal shifts: buying less; avoiding plastic packaging [37:01] – Style Blueprint deep-dive: colors, silhouettes, personality [41:33] – Brand lists by style personality & learning resources [42:56] – Final 5 begins [43:20] – Hope for the Planet [43:35] – Eco Tip of the Week [43:53] – A sustainability fact that lands in any room [44:30] – Where to find Julia & OpenWardrobe Links from the episodes:OpenWardrobe Bonus video: Wardrobe + Blueprint walk-through YouTube Video of the podcast 30% off the Style Blueprint with code MAMMAEARTH (all caps) at checkout on OpenWardrobe. Where can people find our guest?OpenWardrobe Facebook Instagram a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-k-dietmar-083810/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    47 min
  3. 201: Plant-Based Holiday Tips with Molly Patrick: Simple, Joyful, and Sustainable Eating for You and Mama Earth

    12/01/2025

    201: Plant-Based Holiday Tips with Molly Patrick: Simple, Joyful, and Sustainable Eating for You and Mama Earth

    In this episode, we talk to Molly Patrick, — co-founder & CEO of Clean Food Dirty Girl, certified life coach, and straight-talking expert in whole-food, plant-based eating. Molly shares her unconventional roots, why progress beats perfection, and specific ways to add joyful, plant-powered dishes to your holiday table. During this episode, Molly shares how her off-grid upbringing shaped a lifelong sustainability compass and the playful, imperfect ethos behind Clean Food Dirty Girl. She busts the “but what about protein?” myth and offers simple swaps to start eating more whole plants today. We dig into a holiday game plan that keeps the joy and nostalgia while adding clean, crowd-pleasing dishes for Christmas—plus mains, sides, plating tips, and pantry staples that make weeknights (and festivities) easy. Along the way, we talk family buy-in without pressure or perfection, and why plant-forward choices create a micro–macro win-win for our bodies and for Mama Earth. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00]-Intro [00:00] – Intro – Why the holidays are perfect for plant-based joy [02:21] – Trash Talk: Eco-Wins and Fails – Host update + new tools/waitlist [02:34] – Guest – Welcome, Molly Patrick [04:08] – Off-grid childhood, adobe homes, and a built-in sustainability mindset [09:52] – Clean Food Dirty Girl: mission, community, and imperfect action [12:00] – Protein myths, social media noise, and trusting the process [20:43] – Simple Shifts – Easy day-one swaps for more whole plants [24:45] – Holiday Playbook – Keep the joy, add the plants (no all-or-nothing) [26:40] – Holiday Dishes – Mashed potatoes, stuffed squash, tofu “centerpieces,” gravies, glazes [30:34] – Family Buy-In – Hybrid meals, low expectations, lots of love [34:56] – Staples – Tofu, soy curls, canned beans, tahini, herbs/spices, nutritional yeast [36:15] – Food x Planet – Local sourcing, lower footprint, everyday wins [43:30] – Final 5 – Faves to follow, weekly eco-tip list, hope for the planet [51:48] – Hope for the Planet – Compassionate, pragmatic optimism Links from the episodes:Clean Food Dirty Girl WTF with Marc Maron (podcast) Rancho Gordo (heirloom beans) Holiday Receipes from Molly Where can people find our guest?Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Podcast Webstie YouTube Key Takeaways:Progress > perfection.Holiday tables don’t need a total overhaul—add a few stellar plant-based sides and keep the traditions you love.Simple swaps work.Brown rice for white, whole-grain breads/tortillas, beans instead of chicken one night, fruit at breakfast—easy,...

    54 min
  4. 200: Embrace your Ideas: The world needs you, celebrating our 200th episode.

    11/03/2025

    200: Embrace your Ideas: The world needs you, celebrating our 200th episode.

    In this conversation, Mariska emphasizes the importance of sharing unique ideas and stories, highlighting that the world needs diverse voices rather than a few perfect examples. She advocates for embracing imperfection, especially in the context of sustainability, and encourages listeners to trust in the value of their contributions. Our 200th episode, we could not have done this withouth everyone of you listening, so this is the biggest Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00] -Intro [01:15] – A Spark in 2018: Wearing My Trash for 30 Days [02:20] – – The New York Moment [04:00] – Vision Boards and Full Circles [04:50] – Honoring Dr. Jane Goodall [06:40] – Lessons from 200 Conversations [08:10] – The Heart of Mama Earth Talk [09:20] – The Early Podcast Days [11:10] – The Growth Journey [12:30] – Launch Announcement: Mama Earth Online Course [13:50] – Inside the Course [15:10] – Founder’s Offer & Giveaways [16:30] – Gratitude and Acknowledgments [18:00] – Lessons Worth Remembering [19:20] – What’s Next for Mama Earth Talk [21:00] – The Power of Imperfect Action [22:30] – Closing Message Links from the episodes:Living Lighter A Practical Guide to Reducing WasteOnline CourseDr. Jane Goodall InstituteDr. Sylvia Earle — Mission BlueCaptain Paul Watson FoundationKate Williams — 1% for the PlanetMaya van Rossum — Green Amendments for the GenerationsEmy Kane - Lonely WhaleClaude Silver - VaynerMediaNatalie Banks Key Takeaways:If you are sitting on an idea, share it.Every story or dream has value.The world needs diverse voices.Imperfection can lead to meaningful change.Sustainability is about heart, not perfection.Trust in your unique perspective.Small actions can have a big impact.Embrace your individuality in storytelling.Don't wait for the perfect moment to act.Your contributions matter, no matter how small.

    24 min
  5. 199: Beyond Box-Ticking: Building Trust and Impact with Jim Massey

    10/06/2025

    199: Beyond Box-Ticking: Building Trust and Impact with Jim Massey

    In this episode, we talk to Jim Massey. He is the best-selling author of Trust in Action and the soon-to-be-released Risk in Action. He’s also the founder of Eastward, a company rethinking how organizations see and act on risk. A former Chief Sustainability Officer at AstraZeneca and Zai Lab, Jim has spent his career helping leaders turn trust, ethics, and innovation into impact. During this episode Jim shares how he’s advised boards, led bold ESG agendas, and built simple models that cut through the noise so leaders can act. Outside of work, he’s a traveller, a dad, and co-author of the Amazon #1 bestseller GeoKids. Jim’s all about turning big talk into bold action. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00]- Introduction to Sustainability and Business Ethics [03:05]- The Journey into Sustainability [06:11]- Trust and Human Behavior in ESG [09:14]- Navigating Certifications and Transparency [12:07]- Focusing on Sustainable Development Goals [17:57]- Innovation as a Catalyst for Change [24:43]- Navigating the Land of Next: AI and Innovation [31:43]- The Path to Net Zero: Understanding Emissions [36:10]- Transformational Leadership: Bridging the Gap [41:09]- Risk, Trust, and Fear: A New Framework for Action Where can people find our guest?LinkedIn Website Book Key Takeaways:Businesses must move beyond box ticking to create real impact.Trust and ethics are essential for sustainable business practices.Transparency is more valuable than certifications in building trust.Focusing on specific Sustainable Development Goals can drive meaningful change.Innovation should be viewed as a catalyst for sustainable practices.Human behavior plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of ESG initiatives.Risk should be seen as an opportunity for growth and change.Companies need to address core issues rather than just the fringe parts.The journey to sustainability often requires a shift in mindset.Building trust involves doing what you say you will do. AI is advancing faster than regulations can keep up.Participation in AI contributes to its advancement.Risk should be seen as an invitation to innovate.Companies often have outdated policies on AI.The fear of job loss due to AI is prevalent.Transformational leadership is essential for change.Focus on scope one and two emissions for net zero.Transparency in corporate goals is crucial.Action is necessary to address climate change.Understanding and addressing fear can lead to progress.

    53 min
  6. 198: Coffee Watch: A Mission for Change with Etelle Higonnet

    09/01/2025

    198: Coffee Watch: A Mission for Change with Etelle Higonnet

    In this episode, we talk to Etelle Higonnet. She is  the Founder & Director of Coffee Watch. A graduate of Yale Law School, she's an attorney and environmental and human rights activist. She previously worked at Mighty Earth, National Wildlife Federation, Greenpeace, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch, as well as two war crimes courts. She was knighted as a Chevalier de l'ordre national du Mérite in her home country of France for her pioneering efforts to curb deforestation in high-risk commodities with an emphasis on cocoa, rubber, palm oil, cattle, and soy industries. She has worked in over 30 countries, is widely published, speaks 9 languages, and is now dedicated to trying to end deforestation and slavery in the global coffee industry Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00] -Introduction to Etelle Higonnet [02:52] -The Birth of Coffee Watch [04:22] -The Dark Side of Coffee Production [08:27] -Child Labor in Coffee Farming [15:04] -Breaking the Cycle of Poverty [18:52] -The Role of Law in Corporate Accountability [23:56] -Greenwashing and Consumer Power [34:37] -Impact of Coffee Watch and Future Goals [47:18] - Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links from the episodes:How Your Coffee Can Make A Difference with RAW Coffee Where can people find our guest?Coffee Watch Etelle Higonnet Key Takeaways:Etelle's journey into human rights began in Guatemala as a teenager.Coffee Watch aims to combat human rights and environmental abuses in the coffee industry.Most coffee consumed globally is linked to child labor and deforestation.Parents of child laborers want their children in school but face economic obstacles.Living income for farmers can eliminate child labor and poverty in coffee production.Certifications often do not guarantee a living wage for farmers.Consumer demand can drive companies to adopt better practices.Greenwashing is prevalent in the coffee industry, making it hard to identify ethical products.Law enforcement is crucial for addressing illegal practices in the coffee industry.The future of coffee production can be sustainable with consumer awareness and action.

    54 min
  7. 197: The Role of Earthworms in Soil Health with Sam Baker

    08/04/2025

    197: The Role of Earthworms in Soil Health with Sam Baker

    In this episode, we talk to Sam Baker. He shares his journey from studying chemistry and pyrotechnics to founding Wriggle Brew, a company focused on creating sustainable fertilizers using earthworms. He discusses the environmental challenges posed by synthetic fertilizers, the importance of soil health in combating climate change, and the role of decomposers in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Sam also highlights the challenges faced in developing their product and the significance of perseverance in scientific research. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of sustainability and the responsibility we all have to protect our planet. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00]- The Journey Begins: From Pyrotechnics to Sustainability [04:36]- Wriggle Brew: Revolutionizing Fertilizers with Earthworms [06:41]- Soil Health: The Connection to Climate Change [09:56]- The Impact of Synthetic Fertilizers on Soil and Ecosystems [20:13]- The Science of Earthworms: Nature's Decomposers [24:55]- Overcoming Challenges: The Trials of Wriggle Brew [29:57]- Scaling Up: The Future of Wriggle Brew and Sustainable Practices [36:57]- Final 5 Where can people find our guest?Instagram - WriggleBrew Instagram - Sam Baker Facebook LinkedIn - WriggleBrew LinkedIn - Sam Baker TikTok Website Key Takeaways:Sam's journey began with a passion for chemistry and pyrotechnics.Environmental challenges led Sam to focus on sustainable solutions.Wriggle Brew uses earthworms to create organic fertilizers.Synthetic fertilizers harm soil health and ecosystems.Healthy soil is crucial for combating climate change.Earthworms play a vital role in nutrient recycling.The use of nitrogen fertilizers creates a feedback loop of soil depletion.Science often involves trial and error in research.Sustainability requires collective effort and responsibility.The future of our planet depends on our actions today. In next months episode we are are looking at some sustainability certifications. What it means and that to whatch out for.

    42 min
  8. 196: Why National Parks Matter

    07/07/2025

    196: Why National Parks Matter

    In this episode of Mama Earth Talk, host Mariska shares her transformative experience hiking through Yellowstone National Park, emphasizing the beauty and importance of national parks for conservation, mental health, and cultural heritage. She discusses the challenges these parks face, including poaching and budget cuts, and highlights the need for protection and expansion of these vital spaces for future generations. Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:[00:00] Exploring the Beauty of Nature [01:48] The Importance of National Parks [08:51] Challenges Facing National Parks [13:49] Why We Must Protect National Parks Links from the episodes:Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone’s national park’s 150th year anniversary with Kevin Costner Wildland Trekking 5 Day hiking tour that we took Bob Brown Foundation Black Mamba's Key Takeaways:The beauty of untouched landscapes is transformative.National parks are crucial for our mental and physical health.Conservation and biodiversity are key reasons to protect parks.National parks play a vital role in climate resilience.Cultural and historical preservation is essential in national parks.Spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety.Budget cuts can lead to trail despair and increased poaching.Education programs in parks are vital for awareness and protection.Corporate encroachment poses a risk to national parks.We must value and protect our national parks for future generations. In our next episode, we’ll be talking worms, looking at some amazing ways they are playing their part.

    22 min
See All (207)

Trailer

5
out of 5
50 Ratings

About

What happens when you wear your own trash for 30 days? You start a podcast. Welcome to Mama Earth Talk—a podcast for eco-curious individuals and conscious businesses who want to make a real difference, live lighter on the planet, and do it all without the pressure to be perfect. I’m Mariska Nell, founder and host of Mama Earth Talk—a sustainability advocate, and passionate believer in progress over perfection. With a Master’s in Sustainable Design, postgraduate studies in Environmental Science, and years of hands-on experience, I’m here to help you take meaningful, heart-led action that works in real life. Mama Earth Talk shares monthly episodes packed with inspiring guest interviews, uplifting good news stories, and practical insights to keep you grounded and motivated. We also offer themed seasons, each diving deeper into specific topics like low-waste living, sustainable business, and planet-positive design—giving you the tools and inspiration to make real, lasting impact. Whether you're here to learn something new, feel inspired, or connect with a global community of changemakers—this space is for you. No guilt. No overwhelm. Just real talk, soulful progress, and hopeful stories—one small step at a time. Listen on your favorite podcast app—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, or anywhere you tune in. You can also subscribe at https://mamaearthtalk.com/listen If something in the show speaks to you—or you know someone who’d love it—please share it and leave a review on Podchaser. https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mama-earth-talk-713574 Got questions or just want to say hi? I’m always around on Instagram @mamaearthtalk Mama Earth has a voice—and it is us Crazy Birds. Instagram: @mamaearthtalk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575371374179 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mamaearthtalk Website: https://mamaearthtalk.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Mariska Nell
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    207
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © mamaearthtalk.com
  • Show Website
    Mama Earth Talk