The Sustainable Voice® Podcast Presented by Big Five Tours and Expeditions

Ashish Sanghrajka
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

Bringing you big successes from small places worldwide, The Sustainable Voice Presented by Big Five is hosted by Ashish Sanghrajka (President of Big Five Tours & Expeditions) and focuses on bringing awareness to sustainability, sustainable projects, and making the world a better place for the next generation. Ashish has boots-on-the-ground experience implementing and deploying several different sustainability-based projects around the world and wants to share that with you. Join us each episode as we journey around the world and dive into the unheard success stories of those trying to make it a better, safer, and more sustainable place for not only everyone in their community but the global community at large.

  1. Jun 12

    Disappearing Bloodlines: Racing Against Time - The Sustainable Voice® | ep. 81 |

    When cultural heritage weakens, entire generations lose the ability to trace where they come from. In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, host Ashish Sanghrajka explores how Indigenous communities are impacted when economic pressure forces migration to cities, and what is lost when traditions, land, and lived knowledge are left behind. The conversation connects data, lived experience, and real-world tourism models that show a different path forward.✨ Key Takeaways✅ Indigenous migration to cities often leads to cultural erosion and loss of generational identity✅ Community-based tourism can directly increase local employment and preserve heritage on ancestral lands✅ Data from multiple destinations shows tourism can generate 30–72 jobs per visitor when structured inclusively✅ Elders and Indigenous knowledge systems carry lessons on leadership, grief, and community service✅ Preserving culture requires intentional economic models that prioritize local voices at the center📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: personal story and cultural identity loss03:10 – Indigenous migration and erosion of ancestral heritage07:45 – Real-world examples of land loss and corporate pressure12:30 – Community-based employment and tourism job data model17:20 – Peru case study and shifting employment ratios22:05 – Danilo and cultural teachings through lived tradition27:40 – Maasai perspectives on grief and generational wisdom32:15 – Tourism, AI, and the future of community employment36:50 – Exploitation vs. cultural exchange in travel41:10 – Closing reflections on teachers, elders, and learning👉 True sustainability begins when communities are not observers of progress, but active participants in shaping it.Engage with Us:👍 Like this video if cultural preservation matters to you🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for more conversations on sustainable tourism and global communities💬 How do you think travel can better support Indigenous voices today?Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFigTag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnULike us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    46 min

  2. May 29

    Living Wages in Tourism: Can Luxury Lead the Way? l Ep. 80 l The Sustainable Voice®

    Ashish Sanghrajka sits down with special guest Aziz Hajee, Tanzania Country Manager and longtime safari expert, for an honest conversation about luxury tourism, living wages, and the future of African safaris. Using the backdrop of the New York Times article on Maasai Mara overcrowding, this episode of The Sustainable Voice® explores the real cost of travel, the pressure of “lowest price” marketing, and why protecting natural destinations requires a shift in mindset. From safari logistics to ethical guiding standards, Ashish and Aziz discuss what responsible tourism actually looks like on the ground.✨ Key Takeaways✅ Why 70% of safari costs are tied to government fees and logistics before luxury even begins✅ How “race to the bottom” pricing impacts wages, guide quality, wildlife protection, and traveler experiences✅ The difference between travel being accessible versus being treated as disposable✅ Why luxury tourism can support better staffing ratios, conservation, and long-term sustainability✅ How overcrowding in destinations like the Maasai Mara reflects larger global tourism challenges📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome and Aziz Hajee’s connection to Ashish’s family03:00 – The real cost structure behind safari tourism07:10 – Luxury tourism, staffing, and wage realities11:40 – Why competing on lowest price hurts the industry15:20 – Safari overcrowding and irresponsible wildlife viewing20:05 – Vehicle maintenance, sustainability, and operating costs23:10 – Is travel a privilege or a right?26:00 – Can higher pricing help protect natural resources?👉 What are your thoughts on balancing accessibility, conservation, and fair wages in tourism? Join the conversation below.Engage with Us:👍 Like this video if you believe tourism should protect both people and places🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for more conversations on global tourism, culture, and sustainability💬 Have you experienced overcrowding while traveling? Share your perspective in the comments.Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFigTag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnULike us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    50 min

  3. May 8

    The All-Inclusive Trap: Who Owns the Place You're Staying At? l Ep. 79 l

    Step aboard The Sustainable Voice® as host Ashish Sanghrajka reconnects with Ines Orihuela of Delphine Cruises to revisit the idea of “locally owned” tourism and why it matters more than ever. Building on a previous episode, this conversation looks at what really happens behind the scenes when travelers choose locally rooted experiences over convenience-driven models. Key Takeaways ✅ Locally owned tourism keeps revenue within communities, supporting thousands of livelihoods beyond what travelers see. ✅ The ripple effect is real—one booking can impact families, farmers, artisans, and entire supply chains. ✅ Economic leakage isn’t abstract; it directly affects food security, education, and long-term stability for local communities. ✅ Sustainable luxury comes with responsibility—high-end travel can actively protect ecosystems and cultural heritage. ✅ Choosing local isn’t just ethical—it helps preserve traditions, prevent exploitation, and create lasting opportunities. 📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome back + revisiting “locally owned” tourism 02:30 – What “all-inclusive” really means in sustainable travel 05:00 – Why local ownership matters in Peru’s Amazon 09:00 – Following the money: where does traveler spending go? 14:30 – The ripple effect of jobs, farms, and suppliers 18:30 – What happens when local businesses lose support 22:00 – Conservation, community, and preventing exploitation\ 27:00 – Convenience vs. consequence in travel choices 31:00 – Investing back into communities and restoration efforts 👉 Travel decisions shape real lives. What kind of impact do you want your next trip to have? Engage with Us: 👍 Like this video if you believe travel should benefit local communities 🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for global perspectives on responsible travel 💬 Have you chosen locally owned experiences? What did you notice? Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFig Tag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnU Like us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1 Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8 Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    47 min

  4. Apr 24

    Fair Trade Tourism: What It Really Means l Ep. 78 l

    In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, Ashish Sanghrajka breaks down what fair trade tourism really means, beyond the labels and marketing. From fair wages and community ownership to environmental responsibility and cultural preservation, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how tourism can either empower or exploit. Through real-world stories from Africa, South America, and beyond, Ashish challenges listeners to rethink how travel decisions impact people, places, and long-term sustainability. Key Takeaways ✅ Fair trade tourism starts with four pillars: fair wages, community ownership, environmental responsibility, and cultural preservation ✅ Deep discounts in travel often come at the cost of someone’s livelihood on the ground ✅ Local and indigenous communities must have a seat at the decision-making table — not just participation, but real ownership ✅ Tourism done responsibly can stabilize economies, protect ecosystems, and preserve cultural identity ✅ Asking better questions as a traveler leads to more meaningful and ethical experiences 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & why fair trade tourism matters 01:30 – What “fair trade” should actually mean 04:30 – The danger of deep discounts and hidden costs 08:00 – Community ownership and why it drives stability 14:00 – Real examples from Kenya and safari tourism 20:00 – Environmental responsibility and its ripple effects 27:00 – Cultural preservation and authentic connection 34:00 – Charity vs. empowerment: understanding the difference 41:00 – The Amazon example and corporate impact 50:00 – What equity looks like on the ground 58:00 – Marketing vs. reality: performative sustainability 01:06:00 – Token gestures vs. measurable impact 01:15:00 – How travelers can make better choices Next time you travel, ask: who truly benefits from my experience? Engage with Us: 👍 Like this video if you care about responsible and meaningful travel 🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for conversations that go beyond the surface 💬 What’s one question you’ve never asked when booking a trip? Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFig Tag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnU Like us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1 Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8\ Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    54 min

  5. Apr 17

    Beyond the Headlines: Understanding Colombia’s Political Reality l Ep. 77 l

    Step beyond the headlines and into the real Colombia. In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, host Ashish Sanghrajka sits down with Abraham Dau—entrepreneur and owner of El Arsenal: The Rum Box in Cartagena—to explore the country’s evolution, its challenges, and the vibrant culture often overlooked. From politics and economic shifts to hospitality and resilience, this conversation offers a grounded, human perspective on a destination redefining itself. ✨ Key Takeaways ✅ Colombia’s global image is still shaped by its past—but its culture, food, and people tell a far richer story ✅ Rapid economic reforms can uplift communities, but also place real pressure on local business owners ✅ Leadership and corruption remain complex, deeply human challenges that impact everyday life ✅ Cartagena is emerging as a hub of entrepreneurship, creativity, and immersive travel experiences ✅ Hospitality experiences—like rum, chocolate, and culinary storytelling—are reshaping how travelers connect with Colombia 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Abraham’s impact during the pandemic 03:00 – Why Colombia is one of the most misunderstood countries 07:00 – Cartagena, family legacy & political influence 10:30 – Corruption, leadership, and democratic realities 20:30 – Economic reforms and their impact on businesses 34:40 – How Colombia’s political system works 44:00 – Tourism, perception, and global double standards 46:00 – Entrepreneurship & the evolution of El Arsenal 👉 If you’ve ever questioned what lies beyond a destination’s reputation, this episode offers a perspective worth hearing. Engage with Us: 👍 Like this video if you believe travel should go deeper than headlines 🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for global conversations that connect culture, people, and place 💬 What’s one destination you think the world misunderstands? Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFig Tag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnU Like us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1 Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8 Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    57 min

  6. Mar 27

    Rethinking “Developing Nations”: Lessons from Uganda’s Elections l Ep. 76 l The Sustainable Voice®

    In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, host Ashish Sanghrajka explores what it’s really like to witness democracy in action while traveling. After being in Uganda during a presidential election and nationwide internet shutdown, Ashish shares firsthand observations from conversations with voters waiting in line across cities and rural villages. The discussion offers a deeper look at civic pride, cultural context, and why understanding elections around the world requires listening before judging.✨ Key Takeaways✅ Why many Ugandans travel hours—or even days—just for the chance to cast their vote✅ How local and municipal elections often matter more to citizens than presidential races✅ Why the terms “developed” and “developing” countries fail to capture today’s economic realities✅ How global supply chains reveal the true importance of countries often overlooked in world narratives✅ Why travel offers perspective that media headlines and political narratives often miss📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Ashish shares travel updates and introduces the election experience in Uganda02:30 – Internet shutdown and arriving during a presidential election05:20 – Conversations with voters waiting in line across villages and cities10:15 – The pride of voting and why citizens travel long distances to participate16:45 – Why local and municipal elections matter most to communities23:10 – Rethinking “developed” vs. “developing” nations31:40 – How global supply chains reveal economic influence and power39:20 – Why media narratives oversimplify elections in emerging democracies46:00 – How travel creates deeper understanding across cultures👉 If this episode gave you a new perspective on global democracy and cultural understanding, share it with someone who loves travel and learning about the world.Engage with Us:👍 Like this video if global perspectives and cultural understanding matter to you🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for conversations exploring travel, sustainability, and global leadership💬 Have you ever experienced a cultural or political moment while traveling that changed your perspective?Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFigTag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnULike us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    48 min

  7. Mar 13

    Water Wars: Tourism vs. Local Communities l Ep. 75 l The Sustainable Voice®

    Water is not a future crisis — it’s a present responsibility. In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, host Ashish Sanghrajka sits down with special guest James Currie, former South African field guide and current host of A Wild Connection, to explore the delicate balance between tourism, water scarcity, and local communities. From safari camps in Botswana to drought-stricken Cape Town, this conversation examines what sustainable tourism truly requires.✨ Key Takeaways✅ Only 1% of Earth’s water is drinkable — and less than 1% of that is accessible above ground.✅ Tourism can use 8–10x more water per guest than local communities — balance is essential.✅ Reverse osmosis systems and eliminating plastic bottles reduce both waste and long-term costs.✅ Wastewater management and above-ground treatment systems protect fragile ecosystems like the Okavango Delta.✅ Small daily actions — from shorter showers to rainwater harvesting — create meaningful impact at home.📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & James’ journey from safari guide to conservation communicator05:46 – Luxury tourism and expanding green frontiers in Africa12:18 – Cape Town’s water crisis & tourism’s role16:35 – The global water myth: volume vs. potable supply23:30 – Sustainable lodge practices that protect ecosystems27:13 – Practical water-saving habits you can implement today👉 If you care about where you travel — and how your choices affect communities — this episode offers grounded insight you can apply immediately.Engage with Us:👍 Like this video if responsible travel matters to you🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for global conversations rooted in impact💬 How do you conserve water at home or while traveling?Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFigTag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnULike us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    55 min

  8. Feb 27

    Tipping Cultures: Ethics, Economics & Expectations l Ep. 74 l The Sustainable Voice®

    Tipping is more than a transaction, it reflects culture, dignity, and human connection. In this episode of The Sustainable Voice®, host Ashish Sanghrajka sits down with special guest Cris Vera to explore the ethics, economics, and expectations behind global tipping culture. From Peru to the United States and Europe, they unpack how gratuities shape traveler behavior, influence livelihoods, and reveal deeper power dynamics in tourism.✨ Key Takeaways✅ Why tipping face-to-face preserves dignity and strengthens authentic cultural exchange.✅ How international travel has influenced tipping norms in Peru and beyond.✅ The subtle power imbalance between traveler and service professional — and how respect keeps it in check.✅ Why education and experience matter in guiding, and how gratuities impact local livelihoods.✅ The difference between entitlement and gratitude in modern travel culture.📌 Timestamps:00:00 – Viral episode reflections & public discourse03:20 – Anxiety around tipping and prepaid gratuities06:30 – The roots of tipping culture in Peru10:30 – Global tipping differences: U.S. vs. Europe14:30 – How tipping becomes normalized in tourism hubs18:15 – Power dynamics between guest and guide28:45 – Do guides rely on tips? The economic reality31:00 – Education, expertise, and professional respect👉 If you travel internationally, this conversation will shift how you think about generosity, responsibility, and cultural awareness.Engage with Us:👍 Like this video if you believe travel should honor local communities.🔔 Subscribe to The Sustainable Voice® for thoughtful conversations on sustainable tourism.💬 How do you approach tipping when you travel abroad?Connect with Us:Follow us on X: https://bit.ly/3TdnFigTag us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OXkFnULike us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Te1Tv1Find us on Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3UNwKj8Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/42VuDf8

    59 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Bringing you big successes from small places worldwide, The Sustainable Voice Presented by Big Five is hosted by Ashish Sanghrajka (President of Big Five Tours & Expeditions) and focuses on bringing awareness to sustainability, sustainable projects, and making the world a better place for the next generation. Ashish has boots-on-the-ground experience implementing and deploying several different sustainability-based projects around the world and wants to share that with you. Join us each episode as we journey around the world and dive into the unheard success stories of those trying to make it a better, safer, and more sustainable place for not only everyone in their community but the global community at large.

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