On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Table & Compass" Podcast, hosts Lisa D. Smith, Joelle Machia, and Ryan Slough welcome acclaimed author, naturalist, explorer, and photographer James Michael Dorsey for an inspiring conversation about protecting indigenous cultures, wildlife, and global heritage through respectful travel, education, and storytelling. Drawing from decades of travel to more than 60 countries, James shares remarkable firsthand experiences with remote indigenous communities, endangered languages, threatened wildlife, and fragile ecosystems. Together, the panel explores how responsible travel, cultural understanding, and international cooperation can help preserve our shared human and natural heritage while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conversation also examines UNESCO World Heritage Sites, biodiversity conservation, the impact of war on people and landscapes, sustainable tourism, disappearing oral traditions, and why every traveler can help become a steward of culture, history, and nature. Learn more about James Michael Dorsey, his books, photography, and global work: https://jamesmichaeldorseyauthor.com/ Listen to the Big Blend Radio "Before They Vanish" Podcast with James Michael Dorsey: https://before-they-vanish.podbean.com/ Learn more about Joelle Machia & Ryan Slough, Founders & PUblishers of Wanderers Compass: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ Learn more about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: https://sdgs.un.org/goals Explore Big Blend Radio and Big Blend Magazines: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ New episodes of Big Blend Radio's "Table &Compass" Podcast air every first Monday, here: https://table-and-compass.podbean.com/
