Behind the Lens: How Storytelling Shapes Conservation with Alex Goetz & Justin Grubb, Ep.102

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Wildlife filmmakers Justin Grubb and Alex Goetz have traveled from Costa Rica to Alaska capturing stories that connect people and wildlife in powerful ways. As co-founders of Running Wild Media, their work has appeared on National Geographic, PBS, Discovery+, and Disney+, and has been recognized with multiple awards and Emmy nominations.

In this conversation, Justin and Alex share the behind-the-scenes realities of wildlife filmmaking- the challenges, the ethics, and the unexpected humor that happens along the way. From hellbenders in Appalachia to red wolves in North Carolina, they reveal how the most effective conservation stories aren’t about animals alone, they’re about people.

You’ll also hear how they build campaigns that lead to tangible impact, why hopeful storytelling is their most powerful tool, and how each of us can use our own voice to spark change, no matter what our day job is.

Highlights

• From prairie dog turf wars to crocodile close calls, what it’s really like in the field.
• The ethics of getting the perfect shot while respecting the wildlife.
• Why the most powerful wildlife stories focus on the humans connected to the animals.

What YOU Can Do

Justin and Alex shared several simple yet meaningful ways listeners can help support wildlife and conservation storytelling:

1. Tell your own story.
   Use your phone, words, art, or photos to share the nature you love. A story told with authenticity and hope can inspire others to care. 
2. Be a hopeful voice.
    Social media can get dark. Choose to amplify the good instead. Share solutions, success stories, or even small wins happening in your community. 
3. Engage locally.
   Attend or support environmental or wildlife film festivals. Ask questions, start conversations, and connect with filmmakers and advocates in your area. 
4. Support authentic conservation media.
   Donate to or share films that are fact-based and community-centered. Look for productions that give voice to both people and wildlife. 
5. Stay curious and informed.
   Fact-check what you share, know your sources, and help counter misinformation about wildlife and conservation issues. 
6. Look closer to home.
   You don’t need to go to the rainforest to find wonder. Start by noticing and appreciating the wildlife in your own backyard.

Resources

• Running Wild Media website
• Hellbent (Film) – about hellbenders and the Rights of Nature movement  
• Running Wild Instagram  
• Running Wild YouTube 
• Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders (EWCL) program 

Want a free guide to help you become a force for nature? Get it HERE!

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What difference for the world are you going to make today?