The Miles to Zen Podcast with Shannon Miles Halliday

The Call Back to the Wild, A conversation with Paul Lister on purpose, rewilding, and remembering what matters

Shannon Miles Halliday Season 2 Episode 51

Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.

0:00 | 49:11

Send us Fan Mail

Join us on the Miles to Zen podcast as host Shannon Miles Halliday sits down with Paul Lister, custodian of Alladale Wilderness Reserve and founder of The European Nature Trust. Discover Paul’s transformative journey from a business focussed life to a mission driven career in rewilding and philanthropy. This episode explores themes of purpose, resilience, and the importance of reconnecting with nature. Paul shares stories of childhood influences, business ventures, and his passionate efforts in restoring natural landscapes and supporting wildlife. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with insights on nature conservation and personal transformation. Paul's story will inspire you to connect with nature and think differently about our roles in preserving the planet.00:00 Introduction to Paul Lister's Journey

02:17 Paul Lister's Early Life and Influences

04:21 Transition to Business and Personal Challenges

08:44 Turning Point and Shift to Rewilding

11:47 Establishing the Alladale Wilderness Reserve

14:18 Rewilding Efforts and Ecotourism

20:45 Challenges and Future of Rewilding in Scotland

26:34 Challenges of Reintroducing Wolves to Alladale

27:24 Exciting Conservation Projects Across Europe

27:50 Impact of Demonstrating Rewilding Success

28:53 Journalistic Efforts to Promote Conservation

30:37 Success Stories: Iberian Lynx and Beyond

31:32 Changing Perspectives on Wildlife

34:41 Inspiration from Conservation Leaders

36:08 The Importance of Consciousness and Education

37:49 Rewilding Efforts in Scotland and Beyond

38:50 Rethinking Traditional Practices

40:12 The Role of Apex Predators in Ecosystems

40:44 Future Excitements and Industry Involvement

43:19 The Impact of AI and Population on Conservation

45:16 Encouraging Nature-Based Vacations

48:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

European Nature Trust Upcoming Trips 

Allade Wilderness Reserve

Clinging By a Claw Film Premiering in London April 21, 2026

Sarah Tompkin’s podcast on Miles to Zen about rewilding in South Africa:

You Tube

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Thank you so much for listening! Please Subscribe/ Follow, Like and Share! 
For additional content follow me on:

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@milestozen

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

Created by Shannon Miles Halliday 
Original music by Anna Wawrzyniak: www.annawritesmusic.com

See you next week!