The Art Of Actual Change Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:09:25 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1770403 en-us © 2026 The Art Of Actual Change yes 71ec204a-2028-5fe1-b9b2-d9b7ad35c874 Derek Nielsen episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Derek Nielsen https://storage.buzzsprout.com/8mk17hk1i6soahe2igbw0ivdana0?.jpg The Art Of Actual Change Episode #19 Tony Gareri Corporate Culture, Giving Back, and Personal Growth Episode #19 Tony Gareri Corporate Culture, Giving Back, and Personal Growth Inside this episode, I had the pleasure to find out what helps make Tony Gareri, the CEO of Roma Moulding, tick. Tony has built Roma's brand into an industry-leading brand synonymous with quality and luxury while fostering a family-like corporate culture that resonates deeply with his customers. Their commitment to giving back and sustainability further cements Roma as an organization worth modeling. 

During our roughly one-hour conversation, Tony glows with an exuberance only someone deeply in love with what he does can display. 

A brief background on Tony Gareri from his personal brand's website - 

"Tony is a family man, a curious CEO, a prolific speaker, and a culture & leadership junkie. He lives in gratitude daily and as such, has a passion for making a positive impact around the world. 

As the CEO of Roma Moulding, a frame manufacturer that is world-renowned for its iconic design, Tony laid the foundations for a culture shift when he was appointed in 2011. He implemented a progressive strategy that prioritizes the happiness of his team. This transformation would profoundly reframe the way Roma Moulding would do business. 

By establishing a clear mission, vision, and a series of core values, he constructed a strong framework for effective leadership. During the last decade, Roma Moulding has achieved a number of accolades including Manufacturer of the Year and Most Admired Company Culture to name a few. Tony is a frequent guest on numerous podcasts, a lecturer at universities across Canada, and featured on blogs; all of which are focused on his passions: business, leadership, mission work, culture, and employee happiness. He’s been acknowledged for his work in notable publications such as Forbes, Toastmasters, Inc.com, and The Drive." 

Tony can be found at
- Website - https://www.tonygareri.com
- Company Website - https://www.romamoulding.com
- Instagram - @tonygareri

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Inside this episode, I had the pleasure to find out what helps make Tony Gareri, the CEO of Roma Moulding, tick. Tony has built Roma's brand into an industry-leading brand synonymous with quality and luxury while fostering a family-like corporate culture that resonates deeply with his customers. Their commitment to giving back and sustainability further cements Roma as an organization worth modeling. 

During our roughly one-hour conversation, Tony glows with an exuberance only someone deeply in love with what he does can display. 

A brief background on Tony Gareri from his personal brand's website - 

"Tony is a family man, a curious CEO, a prolific speaker, and a culture & leadership junkie. He lives in gratitude daily and as such, has a passion for making a positive impact around the world. 

As the CEO of Roma Moulding, a frame manufacturer that is world-renowned for its iconic design, Tony laid the foundations for a culture shift when he was appointed in 2011. He implemented a progressive strategy that prioritizes the happiness of his team. This transformation would profoundly reframe the way Roma Moulding would do business. 

By establishing a clear mission, vision, and a series of core values, he constructed a strong framework for effective leadership. During the last decade, Roma Moulding has achieved a number of accolades including Manufacturer of the Year and Most Admired Company Culture to name a few. Tony is a frequent guest on numerous podcasts, a lecturer at universities across Canada, and featured on blogs; all of which are focused on his passions: business, leadership, mission work, culture, and employee happiness. He’s been acknowledged for his work in notable publications such as Forbes, Toastmasters, Inc.com, and The Drive." 

Tony can be found at
- Website - https://www.tonygareri.com
- Company Website - https://www.romamoulding.com
- Instagram - @tonygareri

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-11232839 Thu, 01 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0500 2564 2 19 full false Episode #18 Katherine Mason Painted With Lipstick for a cause Episode #18 Katherine Mason Painted With Lipstick for a cause Inside this episode, Katherine Mason shares with us her love for painting but a deeper love for helping others. How her faith guides her life and how she wants her legacy to be more about art but how well she treated others.  

From an early age, Katherine was a talented painter excelling in advanced art classes in high school.  In called she lost motivation by being pushed through the system without challenge. Her love for art began to fade when a favorite professor pulled her aside to help her refocus. For all of us, we are thankful he did. Her work delicately touches the soul as does her mission. 

A word from Katherine - 

I started my Lipstick Series in order to support women who have battled, or are currently battling, Breast Cancer. When asking women what the hardest part of their journey with cancer had been, they had a shockingly similar answer:

They didn't feel beautiful anymore.

After finding out a good friend was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, I had the opportunity to sit down with her and try to better understand the battle she was fighting. She told me that before her chemotherapy treatments, she would apply lipstick because it was the only thing that made her feel strong and beautiful again. From then on, I decided to create this series entirely out of lipstick.

My series continues to grow thanks to the generosity of those who have donated lipstick in honor and in memory of their loved ones. I’m privileged to be able to incorporate these people into my work, keeping their spirits alive!

This body of work will be sold to raise money for The Rose clinic and the National Breast Cancer Foundation in hopes of finding a cure, and in the meantime, reminding women just how beautiful they truly are.

  If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Website - https://paintedwithlipstick.com
- Instagram - @paintedwithlipstick
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/paintedwithlipstick
- Tick Tock - @paintedwithlipstick

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change

]]> Inside this episode, Katherine Mason shares with us her love for painting but a deeper love for helping others. How her faith guides her life and how she wants her legacy to be more about art but how well she treated others.  

From an early age, Katherine was a talented painter excelling in advanced art classes in high school.  In called she lost motivation by being pushed through the system without challenge. Her love for art began to fade when a favorite professor pulled her aside to help her refocus. For all of us, we are thankful he did. Her work delicately touches the soul as does her mission. 

A word from Katherine - 

I started my Lipstick Series in order to support women who have battled, or are currently battling, Breast Cancer. When asking women what the hardest part of their journey with cancer had been, they had a shockingly similar answer:

They didn't feel beautiful anymore.

After finding out a good friend was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, I had the opportunity to sit down with her and try to better understand the battle she was fighting. She told me that before her chemotherapy treatments, she would apply lipstick because it was the only thing that made her feel strong and beautiful again. From then on, I decided to create this series entirely out of lipstick.

My series continues to grow thanks to the generosity of those who have donated lipstick in honor and in memory of their loved ones. I’m privileged to be able to incorporate these people into my work, keeping their spirits alive!

This body of work will be sold to raise money for The Rose clinic and the National Breast Cancer Foundation in hopes of finding a cure, and in the meantime, reminding women just how beautiful they truly are.

  If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Website - https://paintedwithlipstick.com
- Instagram - @paintedwithlipstick
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/paintedwithlipstick
- Tick Tock - @paintedwithlipstick

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change

]]> Buzzsprout-11226183 Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:00:00 -0500 4513 2 18 full false Episode #17 Priya Shah and The Simple Good. Healing and Community Through Sharing What Makes Them Happy Episode #17 Priya Shah and The Simple Good. Healing and Community Through Sharing What Makes Them Happy Inside this episode, Priya Shah opens our eyes to the connection between art, community and healing. Her organization The Simple Good (TSG) was created out of a blog started in March 2011 on the need to share what people found to be their "happy" from around the world. The blog quickly went viral. 

By April 2013 TSG’s first pilot youth arts program took place in Auburn Gresham, Chicago, and resulted in an incredible wave of interest from schools across Chicago. The Simple Good had arrived, and became an official non-profit organization on August 2014.

In 2015 TSG continued their global reach by facilitating a photography exchange between high school students in Roseland, Chicago and students in Moshi, Tanzania.

TSG formalized our SEL & Mindfulness-based Arts Residency curriculum, and expanded their projects into the programs they currently teach in schools and community organizations.

Its mission is to connect the meaning of good from around the world to empower youth to become positive activists through art and discussion.

Through mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) based art programming and public art projects, their mission is to transcend the message that no matter where you go in the world, good means the same to all of us and that is what connects us as human beings.

TSG BUSINESS SERIES
This series of workshops and training programs help corporate partners create space for more empathetic and inclusive workplaces using our expertise in Social Emotional Learning and experience working in diverse communities. It is through these conversations that we empower those in positions of influence to recognize and address what is dividing them to uncover the commonalities that build bridges of community, hope and positive connection.

My conversation with Priya reminded me how necessary it is to remain open to others and to find what makes us happy.


City Of Big Creams Fundraiser

Thursday, September 29th

VIP Pre-Dinner: 5:30 – 7:00 PM

City of Big Dreams: 7:00 – 11:00 PM

The Simple Good invites you to their 10 year anniversary celebration, City of Big Dreams Fundraiser – the only immersive arts experience celebrating the simple good of Chicago and a one of a kind evening of music, visual arts, dance, and poetry complete with interactive experiences to take you on a journey to celebrate the dreams that we can make a reality together.

As guests of their intimate evening, you will connect with Chicago’s diverse and vibrant arts culture, while intentionally engaging with arts activism to support The Simple Good youth. 


If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Website - https://thesimplegood.org
- Instagram - @thesimplegood
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesimplegood
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheSimpleGood

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Inside this episode, Priya Shah opens our eyes to the connection between art, community and healing. Her organization The Simple Good (TSG) was created out of a blog started in March 2011 on the need to share what people found to be their "happy" from around the world. The blog quickly went viral. 

By April 2013 TSG’s first pilot youth arts program took place in Auburn Gresham, Chicago, and resulted in an incredible wave of interest from schools across Chicago. The Simple Good had arrived, and became an official non-profit organization on August 2014.

In 2015 TSG continued their global reach by facilitating a photography exchange between high school students in Roseland, Chicago and students in Moshi, Tanzania.

TSG formalized our SEL & Mindfulness-based Arts Residency curriculum, and expanded their projects into the programs they currently teach in schools and community organizations.

Its mission is to connect the meaning of good from around the world to empower youth to become positive activists through art and discussion.

Through mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) based art programming and public art projects, their mission is to transcend the message that no matter where you go in the world, good means the same to all of us and that is what connects us as human beings.

TSG BUSINESS SERIES
This series of workshops and training programs help corporate partners create space for more empathetic and inclusive workplaces using our expertise in Social Emotional Learning and experience working in diverse communities. It is through these conversations that we empower those in positions of influence to recognize and address what is dividing them to uncover the commonalities that build bridges of community, hope and positive connection.

My conversation with Priya reminded me how necessary it is to remain open to others and to find what makes us happy.


City Of Big Creams Fundraiser

Thursday, September 29th

VIP Pre-Dinner: 5:30 – 7:00 PM

City of Big Dreams: 7:00 – 11:00 PM

The Simple Good invites you to their 10 year anniversary celebration, City of Big Dreams Fundraiser – the only immersive arts experience celebrating the simple good of Chicago and a one of a kind evening of music, visual arts, dance, and poetry complete with interactive experiences to take you on a journey to celebrate the dreams that we can make a reality together.

As guests of their intimate evening, you will connect with Chicago’s diverse and vibrant arts culture, while intentionally engaging with arts activism to support The Simple Good youth. 


If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Website - https://thesimplegood.org
- Instagram - @thesimplegood
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesimplegood
- Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheSimpleGood

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Buzzsprout-11182520 Tue, 23 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0500 2791 2 17 full false Episode # 16 Rachel Wood Solo Travel, Photography, NFTs, Artverse, And An Infectious Love For Life Episode # 16 Rachel Wood Solo Travel, Photography, NFTs, Artverse, And An Infectious Love For Life Inside this episode, Rachel Wood dives deep into the world of solo travel, photography, NFTs, and van life.

Rachel spent most of her childhood and early adult life traveling the world. Early on, her parents would bring Rachel on Habitat For Humanity mission trips through church creating a love for exploration and adventure. Now in her late twenties, Rachel continues to value real-life experiences over possessions as she works her way around the globe. 

Just 3 years ago Rachel was traveling in South America exploring her new love for photography where she landed her first paid photography job. Since then, Rachel has built an impressive library of photography while amassing tens of thousands of Twitter followers all around their love for art and travel.

Rachel has become a growing force to be reconed with in the NFT space selling everything from traditional landscape pieces, abstract, cultural images to composites.  She now mentors other artist and individuals who are looking to make a change in their lives toward persuing their passions.

In the summer of 2022, Rachel launched the Artverse. A platform connecting digital artist to collectors. Here digital artist can display 1 or 1 works or editions linking back to their chosen auction platform for purchase.  Web 3 is coming and Rachel is outfront of the curve with understanding monitization and community inside this space.   

I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Her energy, smile and personality quickly make you fall in love with her and her work.       

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Instagram - thetravelingelf
- Open Sea - Macroni Penguin Lovers
- Foundation - @ray.thetravelingelf
- Sloika - Rachelwood.eth

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Inside this episode, Rachel Wood dives deep into the world of solo travel, photography, NFTs, and van life.

Rachel spent most of her childhood and early adult life traveling the world. Early on, her parents would bring Rachel on Habitat For Humanity mission trips through church creating a love for exploration and adventure. Now in her late twenties, Rachel continues to value real-life experiences over possessions as she works her way around the globe. 

Just 3 years ago Rachel was traveling in South America exploring her new love for photography where she landed her first paid photography job. Since then, Rachel has built an impressive library of photography while amassing tens of thousands of Twitter followers all around their love for art and travel.

Rachel has become a growing force to be reconed with in the NFT space selling everything from traditional landscape pieces, abstract, cultural images to composites.  She now mentors other artist and individuals who are looking to make a change in their lives toward persuing their passions.

In the summer of 2022, Rachel launched the Artverse. A platform connecting digital artist to collectors. Here digital artist can display 1 or 1 works or editions linking back to their chosen auction platform for purchase.  Web 3 is coming and Rachel is outfront of the curve with understanding monitization and community inside this space.   

I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. Her energy, smile and personality quickly make you fall in love with her and her work.       

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Instagram - thetravelingelf
- Open Sea - Macroni Penguin Lovers
- Foundation - @ray.thetravelingelf
- Sloika - Rachelwood.eth

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change


]]> Buzzsprout-11146847 Tue, 16 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0500 4149 2 16 full false Episode #15 Friends Of Wildlife Uganda with Richard Tumusiime Episode #15 Friends Of Wildlife Uganda with Richard Tumusiime Inside this episode, Richard Tumusiime and I have an in-depth conversation about the past, current, and future state of conservation in Uganda.  As a boy growing up in the mountains of Uganda, Richard was always fascinated with wildlife and the people who traveled the world to see them. He admired foreign travelers and knew at an early age he wanted to be a part of the tourism industry in his country.

After training to be a field ranger and completing years of conservation education Richard was ready to make the transition into his dream role as a tour operator. Wildlife tourism is one of the main economic supporters of people throughout Africa and particularly in Uganda where endangered species can be found throughout the country.

Richard is part of an organization called Friends of Wildlife Uganda. This organization educates locals on the importance of wildlife. In a region where wild animals could kill their livestock or destroy their crops, it is important for people not to retaliate against them.  These wild animals support so much of Uganda's economy. Friends of Wildlife Uganda is also installing flash strobe systems across conflict regions but they need our help and funding to make a difference.  Please check out their go-fund-me page and donate what you can to this important cause. 

In my short time with Richard, I learned so many interesting facts about ecotourism, East Africa, and the wildlife driving our shared passion.  I am honored to call him a friend and a colleague devoted to conservation.       

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Facebook - Friends Of Wildlife Uganda

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change



]]> Inside this episode, Richard Tumusiime and I have an in-depth conversation about the past, current, and future state of conservation in Uganda.  As a boy growing up in the mountains of Uganda, Richard was always fascinated with wildlife and the people who traveled the world to see them. He admired foreign travelers and knew at an early age he wanted to be a part of the tourism industry in his country.

After training to be a field ranger and completing years of conservation education Richard was ready to make the transition into his dream role as a tour operator. Wildlife tourism is one of the main economic supporters of people throughout Africa and particularly in Uganda where endangered species can be found throughout the country.

Richard is part of an organization called Friends of Wildlife Uganda. This organization educates locals on the importance of wildlife. In a region where wild animals could kill their livestock or destroy their crops, it is important for people not to retaliate against them.  These wild animals support so much of Uganda's economy. Friends of Wildlife Uganda is also installing flash strobe systems across conflict regions but they need our help and funding to make a difference.  Please check out their go-fund-me page and donate what you can to this important cause. 

In my short time with Richard, I learned so many interesting facts about ecotourism, East Africa, and the wildlife driving our shared passion.  I am honored to call him a friend and a colleague devoted to conservation.       

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- Facebook - Friends Of Wildlife Uganda

Share this episode across whatever platforms you enjoy listening to podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. Photography For Change



]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-10959048 Wed, 13 Jul 2022 20:00:00 -0500 4026 2 15 full false Episode #14 Save The Bell Bowl Prairie with Robb Telfer of Friends Of Illinois Forest Preserves Episode #14 Save The Bell Bowl Prairie with Robb Telfer of Friends Of Illinois Forest Preserves Inside this special episode I have the honor of speaking with Robb Telfer about what is happening with the Bell Bowl Prairie at the Chicago - Rockford International Airport.

Under new leadership, the several thousand year old prairie is under threat to be bulldozed to make way for a new road. To our understanding, this road is essentially pointless and only adds to shave off a small amount of time to the shipping route. This ecosystem only exists in a few small pockets left on earth and is home to several rare and endangered species. Robb expresses his hope for the right decision to be made by the powers at large. He educates us on  just how important these last remaining natural places are for Illinois and the world.  He equates this as our "rainforest" or "coral reefs" that need protecting.

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- https://www.savebellbowlprairie.org 
- https://www.instagram.com/bellbowlprairie/
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/savebellbowlprairie

Share this episode across what ever platforms you enjoy listening to podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. 

]]> Inside this special episode I have the honor of speaking with Robb Telfer about what is happening with the Bell Bowl Prairie at the Chicago - Rockford International Airport.

Under new leadership, the several thousand year old prairie is under threat to be bulldozed to make way for a new road. To our understanding, this road is essentially pointless and only adds to shave off a small amount of time to the shipping route. This ecosystem only exists in a few small pockets left on earth and is home to several rare and endangered species. Robb expresses his hope for the right decision to be made by the powers at large. He educates us on  just how important these last remaining natural places are for Illinois and the world.  He equates this as our "rainforest" or "coral reefs" that need protecting.

If you are inspired by this podcast and want to get involved please check out
- https://www.savebellbowlprairie.org 
- https://www.instagram.com/bellbowlprairie/
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/savebellbowlprairie

Share this episode across what ever platforms you enjoy listening to podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. Share this with anyone you feel would be inclined to help or even just become more educated on the topic.

Check out https://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change outside themselves to make this planet a better place to live. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-10258554 Wed, 16 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0500 3057 2 2 full false The Business of Conservation with Gwen Obermeyer The Business of Conservation with Gwen Obermeyer Inside this episode, Gwen Obermeyer and I dive into the potential career paths inside the conservation industry.  She shares with us her own career journey and lessons she wished she had known when she was just staring out. We dive into the current state of our planets health. Cover ways anyone can get involved in conservation and so much more.



To find out more about the work she has been involved in check out:
- The Nature Conservancy -www.tnc.org
- Tompkins Conservation @https://www.tompkinsconservation.org
- Instagram - @gwenobermeyer
-www.tumalocreekpartners.org
-www.prairy.org
-www.adastrafoodanddrink.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Inside this episode, Gwen Obermeyer and I dive into the potential career paths inside the conservation industry.  She shares with us her own career journey and lessons she wished she had known when she was just staring out. We dive into the current state of our planets health. Cover ways anyone can get involved in conservation and so much more.



To find out more about the work she has been involved in check out:
- The Nature Conservancy -www.tnc.org
- Tompkins Conservation @https://www.tompkinsconservation.org
- Instagram - @gwenobermeyer
-www.tumalocreekpartners.org
-www.prairy.org
-www.adastrafoodanddrink.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Buzzsprout-9895937 Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0600 3837 2 1 full false Episode #12 How One Mothers Fight For Her Family Turned Into A Sustainable Fashion Brand To Help Save The Planet And Her Family Episode #12 How One Mothers Fight For Her Family Turned Into A Sustainable Fashion Brand To Help Save The Planet And Her Family Inside this episode Tracy Strandness of Barefoot Eco Outfitters opens up about the sustainable fashion industry. The pros and cons the industry has to offer and why the pros far outweigh the cons. She shares the intimate details about her very personal encounter with domestic abuse. How through the painful process she managed to strengthen her relationship with her children through nature. How the entire ordeal lead her and her children to start a sustainable fashion line. We both open up to each other about our own journey as survivors and how therapy, reflection and determination has lead us both to unforeseen positions of strength.

If you are triggered by conversations about domestic abuse or sexual assault please hold off on listening to this episode until you're are ready.

Tracy and Barefoot Eco Outfitters can be found at :

Website - https://barefooteco.com

Instagram - Barefootecooutfitters  https://www.instagram.com/barefootecooutfitters/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BarefootEcoOutfitters

Twitter - @BFecooutfitters  https://twitter.com/BFecooutfitters

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/BarefootEcoOutfitter?ref=seller-platform-mcnav


If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Inside this episode Tracy Strandness of Barefoot Eco Outfitters opens up about the sustainable fashion industry. The pros and cons the industry has to offer and why the pros far outweigh the cons. She shares the intimate details about her very personal encounter with domestic abuse. How through the painful process she managed to strengthen her relationship with her children through nature. How the entire ordeal lead her and her children to start a sustainable fashion line. We both open up to each other about our own journey as survivors and how therapy, reflection and determination has lead us both to unforeseen positions of strength.

If you are triggered by conversations about domestic abuse or sexual assault please hold off on listening to this episode until you're are ready.

Tracy and Barefoot Eco Outfitters can be found at :

Website - https://barefooteco.com

Instagram - Barefootecooutfitters  https://www.instagram.com/barefootecooutfitters/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BarefootEcoOutfitters

Twitter - @BFecooutfitters  https://twitter.com/BFecooutfitters

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/BarefootEcoOutfitter?ref=seller-platform-mcnav


If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-9798275 Tue, 28 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0600 4588 1 12 full false Episode #11 One Small Step At A Time Could Save This Planet. Tyson Suda On Why He Is Planning To Cross Iceland By Foot Episode #11 One Small Step At A Time Could Save This Planet. Tyson Suda On Why He Is Planning To Cross Iceland By Foot Inside this episode Tyson explains why he decided to take on this several hundred mile solo trek across Iceland. Why he believes it requires making a splash these days to raise awareness  for important causes, like climate change. He speaks for his love of the outdoors from an early age and how seeing the disastrous toll climate change has had across the globe sparked his desire to lead by example.

With little knowledge of or social media presence, Tyson hopes to grow his following through instagram, reaching out for sponsorships, and conducting interviews like this. We are lucky enough to be taken along through the process, before, hopefully during and certainly after.

He is a great example of how an ordinary person can help save this planet.

Follow his journey at :

Instagram - the.eco.athlete

Support his journey at :

Go Fund Me - Solo Walking The Iceland Divide 

]]> Inside this episode Tyson explains why he decided to take on this several hundred mile solo trek across Iceland. Why he believes it requires making a splash these days to raise awareness  for important causes, like climate change. He speaks for his love of the outdoors from an early age and how seeing the disastrous toll climate change has had across the globe sparked his desire to lead by example.

With little knowledge of or social media presence, Tyson hopes to grow his following through instagram, reaching out for sponsorships, and conducting interviews like this. We are lucky enough to be taken along through the process, before, hopefully during and certainly after.

He is a great example of how an ordinary person can help save this planet.

Follow his journey at :

Instagram - the.eco.athlete

Support his journey at :

Go Fund Me - Solo Walking The Iceland Divide 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-9597250 Tue, 23 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0600 2699 1 11 full false Episode #10 Saving The Boundary Waters And Our Remaining Natural Untouched Landscapes With Alex Falconer Episode #10 Saving The Boundary Waters And Our Remaining Natural Untouched Landscapes With Alex Falconer Inside this episode Alex Falconer dives into how one person with a dream can help save this planet. How he started his crusade to help save over 1,000,000 acres of untouched natural area with only an idea. He shares with us all the details about planning his incredible 110 mile run across the rouged terrain. So many people think you have to be a professional athlete to accomplish what he did. What it took was courage and determination. He is a shining example of how one person can make a difference. 

Because of Alex, his team and supporters the Boundary Waters Wilderness Protection and Pollution Prevention Act is on its way to congress after being addressed by President Biden.

To find out more about the work he and his team are doing or how you can get involved please visit.  https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org

Instagram - @alexfalconrt

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Inside this episode Alex Falconer dives into how one person with a dream can help save this planet. How he started his crusade to help save over 1,000,000 acres of untouched natural area with only an idea. He shares with us all the details about planning his incredible 110 mile run across the rouged terrain. So many people think you have to be a professional athlete to accomplish what he did. What it took was courage and determination. He is a shining example of how one person can make a difference. 

Because of Alex, his team and supporters the Boundary Waters Wilderness Protection and Pollution Prevention Act is on its way to congress after being addressed by President Biden.

To find out more about the work he and his team are doing or how you can get involved please visit.  https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org

Instagram - @alexfalconrt

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful.

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-9523018 Tue, 09 Nov 2021 22:00:00 -0600 2359 1 10 full false Episode # 9 Tim Spalla With The Horn of Africa Conservation Alliance. Why Sitting On The Sidelines Of Conservation Is Not An Option Episode # 9 Tim Spalla With The Horn of Africa Conservation Alliance. Why Sitting On The Sidelines Of Conservation Is Not An Option Inside this episode Tim dives deep into the illegal wildlife trade and reveals the behind the scenes work going on to fight it. With his extensive military intelligence background, Tim has developed a skillset fine-tuned to work with locals, police and governments to bring these criminals to justice.

Global wildlife crime has been estimated by the UN to be worth between US $7 and $23 billion dollars per year, run by sophisticated criminal enterprises looking to capitalize on the high return and relatively low risks of the trade (UN, 2017; GEF, 2020). Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) has become the 4th most profitable global crime, behind the trafficking of drugs, arms, and humans. International criminal syndicates operating between the Middle East and the Horn of Africa (HOA) that specialize in the trade of live exotic animals are exploiting the insecurity and limited capacities of law enforcement agencies in the region, adding further pressure. As many as 300 cheetah cubs are being moved through the HOA corridor annually, mainly through Somaliland, making it by far the largest live cheetah smuggling corridor in the world (IAFW, CCF). This is particularly concerning because the entire Cheetah population is estimated at less than 7500, and as a result, scientists are pushing for reclassification on the IUCN Red List from vulnerable to endangered status (PNAS, 2017); CCF; IFAW). The HOA corridor also supports substantial illicit trade in other animal and forestry products, including antelopes, tortoises, birds, ivory, hardwood timber, and charcoal, utilizing the same highly advanced transnational crime networks. According to a Somaliland official, in Somaliland alone, more than 1,100 various exotic animals were seized from traffickers by authorities between 2018 and 2020. Countless others are sacrificed along the trade route, perishing in grueling trafficking conditions. Apart from the animal trade, the trade of illicit forestry products is generating substantial criminal revenues.

HOA conservation and CWT efforts are grossly underfunded in the region because conventional organizations are unable to operate. High risk, cultural barriers and political unrest have created an unfavorable working environment. His team is uniquely qualified to manage and mitigate risk in the HOA. Rather than a top-down approach, they are unique in their ability to come in on the ground, map out the problem and individual needs of the host country, and turn that into policy and capacity-building recommendations. They are able to work in this capacity because of the extensive partner networks they’ve built on the ground, backed by local knowledge, political connections and trusted community relations. The size and expertise of their team also allow them to be agile. By adjusting quickly to rapidly evolving conditions, they are able to maximize our potential to disrupt IWT activities. They were also able to work closely with their Government partners to build prosecution capacity and provide much-needed technical support.

Tims work can be found at

Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/horn-of-africa-conservation-alliance-hoaca

Facebook: https://fb.me/hornofafricalliance

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HOA_Alliance

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hornofafricalliance/

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Inside this episode Tim dives deep into the illegal wildlife trade and reveals the behind the scenes work going on to fight it. With his extensive military intelligence background, Tim has developed a skillset fine-tuned to work with locals, police and governments to bring these criminals to justice.

Global wildlife crime has been estimated by the UN to be worth between US $7 and $23 billion dollars per year, run by sophisticated criminal enterprises looking to capitalize on the high return and relatively low risks of the trade (UN, 2017; GEF, 2020). Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) has become the 4th most profitable global crime, behind the trafficking of drugs, arms, and humans. International criminal syndicates operating between the Middle East and the Horn of Africa (HOA) that specialize in the trade of live exotic animals are exploiting the insecurity and limited capacities of law enforcement agencies in the region, adding further pressure. As many as 300 cheetah cubs are being moved through the HOA corridor annually, mainly through Somaliland, making it by far the largest live cheetah smuggling corridor in the world (IAFW, CCF). This is particularly concerning because the entire Cheetah population is estimated at less than 7500, and as a result, scientists are pushing for reclassification on the IUCN Red List from vulnerable to endangered status (PNAS, 2017); CCF; IFAW). The HOA corridor also supports substantial illicit trade in other animal and forestry products, including antelopes, tortoises, birds, ivory, hardwood timber, and charcoal, utilizing the same highly advanced transnational crime networks. According to a Somaliland official, in Somaliland alone, more than 1,100 various exotic animals were seized from traffickers by authorities between 2018 and 2020. Countless others are sacrificed along the trade route, perishing in grueling trafficking conditions. Apart from the animal trade, the trade of illicit forestry products is generating substantial criminal revenues.

HOA conservation and CWT efforts are grossly underfunded in the region because conventional organizations are unable to operate. High risk, cultural barriers and political unrest have created an unfavorable working environment. His team is uniquely qualified to manage and mitigate risk in the HOA. Rather than a top-down approach, they are unique in their ability to come in on the ground, map out the problem and individual needs of the host country, and turn that into policy and capacity-building recommendations. They are able to work in this capacity because of the extensive partner networks they’ve built on the ground, backed by local knowledge, political connections and trusted community relations. The size and expertise of their team also allow them to be agile. By adjusting quickly to rapidly evolving conditions, they are able to maximize our potential to disrupt IWT activities. They were also able to work closely with their Government partners to build prosecution capacity and provide much-needed technical support.

Tims work can be found at

Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/horn-of-africa-conservation-alliance-hoaca

Facebook: https://fb.me/hornofafricalliance

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HOA_Alliance

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hornofafricalliance/

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-9376491 Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0500 3141 1 9 full false Episode #8 Why Education Is The Key To Saving This Planet. Hollywood Actress Nina Bergman Episode #8 Why Education Is The Key To Saving This Planet. Hollywood Actress Nina Bergman Nina Bergman is a multi-hyphenated actress, singer and songwriter with several high profile film roles soon to be released in theaters across the country. Nina can next be seen as the female lead in the November 5th indie theatrical release "Hell Hath No Fury." In this World War II historical female empowering action drama Nina stars as Marie, a French resistance fighter who falls in love with an SS officer who becomes prisoner of a rogue group of corrupt US soldiers.  Directed by Jesse Johnson, Nina is in virtually every scene  giving a heartbreaking and haunting tour de force performance.   Born in Denmark, Bergman is the granddaughter of Russia's greatest actor Pavel Kadochnikov. Nina spent her early childhood traveling around Europe with her Russian Gypsy grandparents and speaks 4 languages (Danish, Russian, Swedish & Norwegian). 

Inside this episode we discuss why education is the key to saving this planet. Nina is a proud, strong and supportive vegan. She lives her life helping others understand the importance of treating our fellow earth inhabitants with respect. We cover her early days growing up in Denmark and how she survived her teenage years and early 20's living in New York City. She explains how seeing the reality of commercial farming heavily weighed on her emotionally and what she does to deal with that trauma. We talk about the current state of this planet and what she feels the future will bring environmentally. I can't tell you enough how much I enjoyed this conversation. She is well on her way to building a huge personal brand as an actress.  With this public platform she intends to serve, make a difference and change the world.  

Nina can be found 
website - https://www.ninabergman.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ninabergman/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NinaBergmanWorld
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ninabergman
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/DEADROSEBEAUTY

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on what ever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Nina Bergman is a multi-hyphenated actress, singer and songwriter with several high profile film roles soon to be released in theaters across the country. Nina can next be seen as the female lead in the November 5th indie theatrical release "Hell Hath No Fury." In this World War II historical female empowering action drama Nina stars as Marie, a French resistance fighter who falls in love with an SS officer who becomes prisoner of a rogue group of corrupt US soldiers.  Directed by Jesse Johnson, Nina is in virtually every scene  giving a heartbreaking and haunting tour de force performance.   Born in Denmark, Bergman is the granddaughter of Russia's greatest actor Pavel Kadochnikov. Nina spent her early childhood traveling around Europe with her Russian Gypsy grandparents and speaks 4 languages (Danish, Russian, Swedish & Norwegian). 

Inside this episode we discuss why education is the key to saving this planet. Nina is a proud, strong and supportive vegan. She lives her life helping others understand the importance of treating our fellow earth inhabitants with respect. We cover her early days growing up in Denmark and how she survived her teenage years and early 20's living in New York City. She explains how seeing the reality of commercial farming heavily weighed on her emotionally and what she does to deal with that trauma. We talk about the current state of this planet and what she feels the future will bring environmentally. I can't tell you enough how much I enjoyed this conversation. She is well on her way to building a huge personal brand as an actress.  With this public platform she intends to serve, make a difference and change the world.  

Nina can be found 
website - https://www.ninabergman.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ninabergman/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NinaBergmanWorld
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ninabergman
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/DEADROSEBEAUTY

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on what ever app you prefer to listen on. Share Share Share with anyone you believe could find this episode helpful. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-9292607 Fri, 01 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0500 3308 1 8 full false Episode #7 Our Great Lakes Are Not For Sale. The Never-ending Fight To Protect Our Fresh Water With Liz Kirkwood Of For Love Of Water Episode #7 Our Great Lakes Are Not For Sale. The Never-ending Fight To Protect Our Fresh Water With Liz Kirkwood Of For Love Of Water Liz Kirkwood is the Executive Director of For Love Of Water (FLOW). She and her team are in a constant battle to protect our fresh water resources in and around the Great Lakes. From trying to prevent oil spills to fighting invasive species, they are part of the unsung heroes protecting this planet. Fresh water is a fundamental building block to life on earth. Our Great Lakes contain 21% of the planets surface fresh water by volume. 

Inside this episode we discuss a few of the many projects FLOW is currently working on. Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac, Nestle and other water diversions, algal blooms, invasive species, environmental racism, climate change and so much more. We discuss how we all have a role in conservation and how business and conservation should be partners not enemies. 

FLOW can be found 
website - https://forloveofwater.org/programs/ 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/for.love.of.water/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/flowforwater
Twitter - https://twitter.com/FlowForWater
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgxfJvGGTXt0g-S7NjX2DXQ

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on what ever app you prefer to listen on. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Liz Kirkwood is the Executive Director of For Love Of Water (FLOW). She and her team are in a constant battle to protect our fresh water resources in and around the Great Lakes. From trying to prevent oil spills to fighting invasive species, they are part of the unsung heroes protecting this planet. Fresh water is a fundamental building block to life on earth. Our Great Lakes contain 21% of the planets surface fresh water by volume. 

Inside this episode we discuss a few of the many projects FLOW is currently working on. Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac, Nestle and other water diversions, algal blooms, invasive species, environmental racism, climate change and so much more. We discuss how we all have a role in conservation and how business and conservation should be partners not enemies. 

FLOW can be found 
website - https://forloveofwater.org/programs/ 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/for.love.of.water/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/flowforwater
Twitter - https://twitter.com/FlowForWater
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgxfJvGGTXt0g-S7NjX2DXQ

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on what ever app you prefer to listen on. 

Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world trying to make an actual change. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8823794 Tue, 06 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0500 3975 1 7 full false Episode #6 Overconsumption Of Our Planet, Indigenous Rights And How Jettie Word Of The Borneo Project Is Fighting To Make A Difference. Episode #6 Overconsumption Of Our Planet, Indigenous Rights And How Jettie Word Of The Borneo Project Is Fighting To Make A Difference. Jettie Word is the executive director of The Borneo Project. Her organization brings international attention and support to community-led efforts to defend forests, sustainable livelihoods, and human rights. Protecting human rights and environmental integrity in Borneo is a critical component of the global movement for a just and peaceful world.

Inside this episode we cover so many important global environmental concerns like systemic corporate greed, palm oil, indigenous rights as well as local problems facing the people of Borneo. She highlights some of the major victories in helping these communities her organization has celebrated. We address sustainable tourism and how, if done right, can have a lasting impact on threatened ecosystems. We shine light on deforestation and land grabbing, who's to blame, and what we can all do to help. Why it's important to get local communities involved in protecting their natural resources from corruption and greed. 

She has a great pulse on Melanesian culture, the problems indigenous groups are facing, and so much more. 

Jettie can be found at:

http://www.theborneoproject.org
Facebook - @borneoproject
Instagram - @borneoproject
Twitter - @borneoaction

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people from around the world. 

]]> Jettie Word is the executive director of The Borneo Project. Her organization brings international attention and support to community-led efforts to defend forests, sustainable livelihoods, and human rights. Protecting human rights and environmental integrity in Borneo is a critical component of the global movement for a just and peaceful world.

Inside this episode we cover so many important global environmental concerns like systemic corporate greed, palm oil, indigenous rights as well as local problems facing the people of Borneo. She highlights some of the major victories in helping these communities her organization has celebrated. We address sustainable tourism and how, if done right, can have a lasting impact on threatened ecosystems. We shine light on deforestation and land grabbing, who's to blame, and what we can all do to help. Why it's important to get local communities involved in protecting their natural resources from corruption and greed. 

She has a great pulse on Melanesian culture, the problems indigenous groups are facing, and so much more. 

Jettie can be found at:

http://www.theborneoproject.org
Facebook - @borneoproject
Instagram - @borneoproject
Twitter - @borneoaction

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people from around the world. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8714964 Wed, 16 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0500 2553 1 6 full false Episode #5 Why It's Never Too Late Or Too Early To Give. Learn A Recipe For Success With Athletico's Founder Mark Kaufman Episode #5 Why It's Never Too Late Or Too Early To Give. Learn A Recipe For Success With Athletico's Founder Mark Kaufman Mark Kaufman is the founder and now executive chairman for Athletico Physical Therapy. He grew Athletico from 1 outpatient clinic to over 500 clinics in 12 states. Mark shares with us how hard work paired with opportunity leads to success. We talk about his upbringing and how some of his childhood mentors influenced his moral compass. I dive into the early days of Athletico all the way down to where the name came from. 


Even with all the success, Mark wishes his company could have done more community outreach. His company literally helps people and changes their lives and he still wishes he could have done more. Along the way, his open heart and generosity lead him to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago where he now serves on the board of directors. Mark and I discuss why its important to actually care about charity and not just use it to pad your resume. We talk about sleep, mindset, personal reflection and so much more. 



Mark can be found at:

@Athltcoguy on Twitter
@Athltcoguy on Instagram

For more information on Athletico visit http://www.athletico.com 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people from around the world

]]> Mark Kaufman is the founder and now executive chairman for Athletico Physical Therapy. He grew Athletico from 1 outpatient clinic to over 500 clinics in 12 states. Mark shares with us how hard work paired with opportunity leads to success. We talk about his upbringing and how some of his childhood mentors influenced his moral compass. I dive into the early days of Athletico all the way down to where the name came from. 


Even with all the success, Mark wishes his company could have done more community outreach. His company literally helps people and changes their lives and he still wishes he could have done more. Along the way, his open heart and generosity lead him to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago where he now serves on the board of directors. Mark and I discuss why its important to actually care about charity and not just use it to pad your resume. We talk about sleep, mindset, personal reflection and so much more. 



Mark can be found at:

@Athltcoguy on Twitter
@Athltcoguy on Instagram

For more information on Athletico visit http://www.athletico.com 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow us on whatever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people from around the world

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8668675 Tue, 08 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0500 3366 1 5 full false Episode #4 A Young Tanzanian Man On A Mission To Save Wildlife Through Ecotourism In His Country. Steven Ngowi Of Ndifo Safari Episode #4 A Young Tanzanian Man On A Mission To Save Wildlife Through Ecotourism In His Country. Steven Ngowi Of Ndifo Safari Todays guest is Steven Ngowi. He was born and raised in Northern Tanzania. With his parents unable to raise him he was raised by his grandfather. A safari guide himself, his grandfather exposed Steven to wildlife in Tanzania at an early age. By the age of 6 he was exploring this wild and dangerous landscape learning and absorbing all he could. 

As he grew older he wanted to pursue accounting as a career but the bush kept calling him back. It was in his DNA. All those years of walking and learning from his grandfather were just laying the foundation for his career to come. Deciding to focus on safari guiding full time, Steven underwent extensive training over the past 2 years to learn the art of walking safari guiding. For anyone who has been on safari before knows just the experience alone can be thrilling, but the intimate encounters Steven can deliver for his guest by doing so on foot just blows my mind. 

Steven tells us not only about safari tours but the changes he has seen in his country's climate and the challenges they now face. It's a great interview with a fascinating young man. 

For more information visit http://www.dereknielsen.com or visit his safari website https://ndifosafari.com

Subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q if you'd like to watch the episode on your device or look up the Art Of Actual Change for more inspirational videos from past guest. 

Steven Ngowi can be found on:

His safari website : https://ndifosafari.com
Instagram --- https://www.instagram.com/ndifosafari/
Facebook --- https://www.facebook.com/ndifosafari

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow on what ever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world. 

]]> Todays guest is Steven Ngowi. He was born and raised in Northern Tanzania. With his parents unable to raise him he was raised by his grandfather. A safari guide himself, his grandfather exposed Steven to wildlife in Tanzania at an early age. By the age of 6 he was exploring this wild and dangerous landscape learning and absorbing all he could. 

As he grew older he wanted to pursue accounting as a career but the bush kept calling him back. It was in his DNA. All those years of walking and learning from his grandfather were just laying the foundation for his career to come. Deciding to focus on safari guiding full time, Steven underwent extensive training over the past 2 years to learn the art of walking safari guiding. For anyone who has been on safari before knows just the experience alone can be thrilling, but the intimate encounters Steven can deliver for his guest by doing so on foot just blows my mind. 

Steven tells us not only about safari tours but the changes he has seen in his country's climate and the challenges they now face. It's a great interview with a fascinating young man. 

For more information visit http://www.dereknielsen.com or visit his safari website https://ndifosafari.com

Subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q if you'd like to watch the episode on your device or look up the Art Of Actual Change for more inspirational videos from past guest. 

Steven Ngowi can be found on:

His safari website : https://ndifosafari.com
Instagram --- https://www.instagram.com/ndifosafari/
Facebook --- https://www.facebook.com/ndifosafari

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review and follow on what ever app you prefer to listen on. Check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people around the world. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8604845 Fri, 28 May 2021 09:00:00 -0500 2899 1 4 full false Episode #3 Two Men Changing Travel As We Know It. Gerard Baker and Phil Hunter of Arctic Tern Expeditions Episode #3 Two Men Changing Travel As We Know It. Gerard Baker and Phil Hunter of Arctic Tern Expeditions Today's guests are Gerard Baker and Phil Hunter of Arctic Tern Expeditions. Both men have spent years as guides, scientist and even chefs (Gerard) in our planets polar regions.  Now they bring their years of expertise to their own travel company in an intimate way.  You may never think of travel the same way again. 

Subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q or look up  The Art Of Actual Change for more inspirational videos

By complete random chance they forged a friendship sharing a small cabin on expeditions ships. Their deep respect for each other, the environment and providing an unforgettable experience is the perfect recipe for delivering travel perfection. 

Arctic Tern Expeditions will take advantage of every opportunity to give you the trip of a lifetime while maintaining the utmost regard for wildlife and the surrounding environment. They are passionate about providing you access to amazing locations around the globe, and will go the extra distance to deliver the trip of a lifetime for you. They feel it is their duty to demonstrate honest and responsible customer service throughout your experience with Arctic Tern Expeditions.

For more information visit http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ or visit their website http://www.arcticternexpeditions.com

They can be found on:
Instagram ----- https://www.instagram.com/arcticternexpeditions/
Facebook ----- https://www.facebook.com/arcticternexp

If you enjoyed this episode, check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people changing the world. 

]]> Today's guests are Gerard Baker and Phil Hunter of Arctic Tern Expeditions. Both men have spent years as guides, scientist and even chefs (Gerard) in our planets polar regions.  Now they bring their years of expertise to their own travel company in an intimate way.  You may never think of travel the same way again. 

Subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q or look up  The Art Of Actual Change for more inspirational videos

By complete random chance they forged a friendship sharing a small cabin on expeditions ships. Their deep respect for each other, the environment and providing an unforgettable experience is the perfect recipe for delivering travel perfection. 

Arctic Tern Expeditions will take advantage of every opportunity to give you the trip of a lifetime while maintaining the utmost regard for wildlife and the surrounding environment. They are passionate about providing you access to amazing locations around the globe, and will go the extra distance to deliver the trip of a lifetime for you. They feel it is their duty to demonstrate honest and responsible customer service throughout your experience with Arctic Tern Expeditions.

For more information visit http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ or visit their website http://www.arcticternexpeditions.com

They can be found on:
Instagram ----- https://www.instagram.com/arcticternexpeditions/
Facebook ----- https://www.facebook.com/arcticternexp

If you enjoyed this episode, check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people changing the world. 

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8499427 Tue, 11 May 2021 10:00:00 -0500 3790 Travel, Antarctica, eco-travel, expeditions 1 3 full false Episode #2 How to take your life back. Focusing on your health with Lianna Nielsen Episode #2 How to take your life back. Focusing on your health with Lianna Nielsen Today's guest is Lianna Nielsen. In her 20's, while chasing a career in acting, Lianna began to experience serious health issues. Learn how she fixed them. 
Follow https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q for more inspirational videos. 

She sought the help of doctors and nutritionist to no avail. This is when she decided to take matters into her own hands. Lianna found a holistic wellness specialist who implemented a program that changed her life. For the last 6 years she has grow her business as an integrated nutrition health and wellness coach diving deeper into the very practice that changed her life.  

She now host group wellness workshops, holds one on one coaching sessions and is a guest speaker for events. This episode is FULL of great information about taking back control of your mental and physical health. 

I won't be able to say this about all my guest but I have actually known Lianna my entire life. Right now she is blowing my mind with all the information she is digesting about wellness, turning it around and changing peoples lives. 

For more information visit. http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ or visit her website https://www.healthybylianna.com 

She can be found on:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healthybylianna/ 
Clubhouse @healthybylianna
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/healthybylianna


If you enjoyed this episode, check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people changing the world.

]]> Today's guest is Lianna Nielsen. In her 20's, while chasing a career in acting, Lianna began to experience serious health issues. Learn how she fixed them. 
Follow https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBvZ7kg_nRj0GAI34hEE04Q for more inspirational videos. 

She sought the help of doctors and nutritionist to no avail. This is when she decided to take matters into her own hands. Lianna found a holistic wellness specialist who implemented a program that changed her life. For the last 6 years she has grow her business as an integrated nutrition health and wellness coach diving deeper into the very practice that changed her life.  

She now host group wellness workshops, holds one on one coaching sessions and is a guest speaker for events. This episode is FULL of great information about taking back control of your mental and physical health. 

I won't be able to say this about all my guest but I have actually known Lianna my entire life. Right now she is blowing my mind with all the information she is digesting about wellness, turning it around and changing peoples lives. 

For more information visit. http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ or visit her website https://www.healthybylianna.com 

She can be found on:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healthybylianna/ 
Clubhouse @healthybylianna
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/healthybylianna


If you enjoyed this episode, check out http://www.dereknielsen.com/listen/ for more episodes with fascinating people changing the world.

]]> Derek Nielsen Buzzsprout-8459253 Tue, 04 May 2021 13:00:00 -0500 3318 1 2 full false Episode #1 With Dr. Gabby Wild Episode #1 With Dr. Gabby Wild Dr. Gabby Wild is a National Geographic wildlife veterinarian who travels the world saving animals. She recently co-authored a National Geographic kids book called "Wild Vet Adventures". Inside the book she tells her fascinating, real life, stories about working with these wild animals. She is the head of the Gabby Wild Foundation (https://gabbywild.org). The foundation works hard to save wild animals around the world, educate locals on wildlife and works hard to advocate eco-friendly sustainable fashion. Inside this episode Dr. Gabby and Derek talk about "Wild Vet Adventures", their own pets, complicated topics like poaching, eco-fashion and so much more. Find this episode and more at https://www.dereknielsen.com

]]> Dr. Gabby Wild is a National Geographic wildlife veterinarian who travels the world saving animals. She recently co-authored a National Geographic kids book called "Wild Vet Adventures". Inside the book she tells her fascinating, real life, stories about working with these wild animals. She is the head of the Gabby Wild Foundation (https://gabbywild.org). The foundation works hard to save wild animals around the world, educate locals on wildlife and works hard to advocate eco-friendly sustainable fashion. Inside this episode Dr. Gabby and Derek talk about "Wild Vet Adventures", their own pets, complicated topics like poaching, eco-fashion and so much more. Find this episode and more at https://www.dereknielsen.com

]]> Derek Buzzsprout-8429570 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0500 1732 1 1 full false