Episode #171 Show Notes

Rediscovering Lost Species through Expeditions & Tech Innovations with Scott Trageser

May 23, 2024

Headshot photo of Scott Trageser
Scott TrageserExecutive Director of The Biodiversity Group

Episode #171 Summary

In the conservation world, few actions are more exciting than rediscovering a lost species, protecting hectares of vital habitat for wildlife, and developing revolutionary tech that transforms the way we study endangered, overlooked species. Now, imagine a career that includes all three. Today, we’re going to explore these and so much more.

Charismatic species receive the lion’s share of public attention, funding, and research, pushing lesser-known species out of the spotlight. Today’s guest, Scott Trageser, is changing this narrative through rediscovery expeditions and tech innovations. As the Executive Director of The Biodiversity Group, Scott has led several (Re)Discovery Expeditions to find lost or new species and protect habitat. He also designed a brand new 3D scanner for live animals, removing the need to take individuals out of the wild for biological research. Additionally, he’s created countless resources and raised a notable amount of money for NGOs across the globe.

While his accomplishment list is quite impressive, his journey is fraught with trials and tribulations, a few of which I can only fathom going through. He openly discusses being accused of unsavory activities by a Bangladeshi environmental journalist, which led to warrants for his arrest, betrayals by close colleagues, and more. If all of these struggles don’t push a person to quit the conservation field, then I don’t know what will. Scott then shares how he became the Executive Director of The Biodiversity Group, and together we explore the measurable impact they are generating for wildlife and other conservation NGOs worldwide.

Alright, friends, Please enjoy this conversation with Scott.

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