Ask the Geographer
Ask the Geographer is a podcast from the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) that brings current geographical insights into the classroom. Each episode features experts who share their knowledge and perspectives on geographical topics relevant to students and teachers. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Society. It is aimed at supporting geography education with accessible, expert-led discussion.
Episodes
The Geography of Conflict with Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Nixon
Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Nixon of the Royal Engineers (British Army) talks about the role of geography in military operations and global geopolitics. Kenny shares insights into how geography influences conflict and relationships between regions. He highlights the importance of understanding terrain in military strategy and the impact of resources and climate change on global conflicts. The convers
Russia-China Migration with Professor Elena Barabantseva
Elena is a Professor of Chinese and International Politics at the University of Manchester. Elena discusses how migration connects with issues of citizenship, race, identity, and belonging, particularly in the context of China and the Chinese Russian borderlands. Elena looks at marriage migration, the experiences of culture on migrant communities. This podcast highlights power, relationships, and
Exploration of Antarctica with Max Worsley
This podcast looks at the most extreme environment on Earth – Antarctica.
Max Worsley who is planning an expedition to ski over 1,300km across Antarctica in November 2026 - a 2 month unsupported two person trek to raise awareness about Antarctica’s role in global systems from sea level to climate regulation.
Managing risk with Dr Tina Thomson
Risk assessment in insurance and reinsurance relies on many of the skills developed through studying geography. This podcast explores how insurers evaluate risk and how it is evolving with growing threats from climate change and urbanisation. Dr Tina Thomson also shares real-world examples of where hazards have - and have not - been effectively managed from an insurance perspective.
Disaster Management with Professor Ilan Kelman
Join us in our podcast where we speak with Professor Ilan Kelman on the role people play in hazard management. Ilan uses well known examples such as the 2010 Haiti earthquake to show the impact of poor planning and management has affected communities long after the hazard event.
Fluvial Geomorphology with Chrystiann Lavarini
This episode of ask the Geographer features a discussion with Chrystiann Lavarini, a senior fluvial geomorphologist at the environmental and engineering consultancy - WSP. The conversation explores how rivers behave, the impact of human activities on them, and sustainable management practices in the context of climate change.
Chrystiann shares insights on river regimes, systems, and the factors
Fieldwork with Chloe Searl
Join us as we talk to Island Geographer - Chloe Searl on all things fieldwork. From why it is more important than ever to how schools can weave it into their curriculum Chloe explains how fieldwork can help students learn beyond the classroom and how participating in meaningful fieldwork they can develop valuable skills for working life.
Embedding Sustainability and Climate Change into the Curriculum with Paul Turner
In this episode, Paul Turner discusses his journey in integrating climate and nature education into the core school curriculum through the Ministry of Eco Education. Paul gives examples of places which are becoming more sustainable using practical measures. He also gives advice to students who are thinking of entering a green career.
Coastal Geomorphology with Professor Larissa Naylor
Discover how climate change is reshaping our coastlines and what strategies can help us adapt. Larissa Naylor, a professor of Geomorphology and Environmental Geography at the University of Glasgow, shares insights on coastal processes, landform creation, human impacts, and future management.
Nature based solutions to climate change with Dr Stephen Cornelius
In this episode of Ask the Geographer, we look into the role of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change. Join us as Dr. Stephen Cornelius from WWF explains how ecosystems can be part of the response and why this is crucial for sustainable geography practices.
Fossil Fuel Pathways with Dr Angus McNelly
In this episode of Ask the Geographer podcast, Dr. Angus McNelly, a lecturer in international development at King's College London, discusses the intricate relationship between fossil fuels and the development of countries, particularly in China and Latin America.
He explains how the post-World War II era marked a significant shift in global politics and economics, leading to the rise of fossil
Wetlands with Dr David Anderson
Dr David Anderson joins us to talk about wetlands; how they can provide a nature-based solution to climate change and their importance to an abundance of different species which use them. He reflects on their current status and methods which are being adopted to restore them.
Climate Adapted Pathways in Education (CAPE)
In this podcast we hear from members of the Climate Adapted Pathways in Education (CAPE) and how it is working to improve today’s education for tomorrow’s climate. This podcast aimed at teachers and educators talks about their vision to equip teachers and school leaders with the knowledge and skills to help all children and young people take climate action and protect the environment.
Climate Action in Education with Professor Andrew Charlton-Perez OBE
Professor Andrew Charlton-Perez OBE, Head of the School of Mathematical, Physical & Computational Sciences at the University of Reading. He has played a key role in shaping the National Climate Education Action Plan (NCEAP), which brings together more than 80 organisations working on transformative climate education. As chair of the NCEAP Group, he helps ensure that these organisations’ efforts su
Climate Change in Central Asia with Dr Kate Leeming
In this podcast we welcome back Dr Kate Leeming who embarked on a 5-month, 9000km bicycle expedition following the Syr Darya River from its source in Kyrgyzstan to the Aral Sea and from there along the Amu Darya to discover its true source into the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan.
This amazing feat was conducted by a small team where the use of a bike meant that Kate could make connections with pe
Climate Education with Dr Andrew Lee
Dr Andrew Lee has been a geographer and geography educator for more than 25 years. He holds a doctorate in Geography from the University of Oxford, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a Chartered Geographer. He is an Associate Fellow and Honorary Lecturer at the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education at University College London.
21st Century Challenges with Professor Mark Maslin
Mark Maslin is a leading scientist with expertise in climate change and the major challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. He has published over 230 papers in journals, is a Professor of Earth System Science at UCL and the Lead for Climate, Health and Security at the United Nations University. In this podcast, Mark talks about the ways in which we can make a difference to changing the impac
Interview with David Burnip (The Wandering Turnip)
David Burnip ('aka' The Wandering Turnip) explores different aspects of places and life in the UK, documenting his findings on YouTube. In this podcast he shares insights from his vast and fascinating wandering to many different places - including discussions about the decline of the High Street, regeneration, sense of place and coastal erosion.
World Bank: Environment and Development
Environmental degradation of our land, water and air is not just an ecological but an economic issue which in turn has an impact on development.
The World Bank has recently released a report into the connection between the economy and the environment. The report titled ‘Reboot Development - The Economics of a Livable Planet’ explores the issues around a declining environment, its connection to t
Sustainable Cities
Join Professor James Evans – Associate Dean for Research at the University of Manchester and a former Head of the Department of Geography and Director of the Manchester Urban Institute, whose specialism focuses on the development of smarter and more sustainable cities.
National Education Nature Park (NENP)
Listen to Dr. Jessica Tipton and Richard Irvine talk about the National Education Nature Park - an initiative to change school spaces into a biodiverse landscape and encourage children to be more engaged with nature.
Urban Geography - Battersea Power Station
Sophie Blake - Head of Geography at Channing School, London has created a new set of learning resources around the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station. Listen to her insights in why it is important to study this iconic landmark and the potential for fieldwork in the area.
Evolution of the environmental movement
This podcast explores the history of the environmental movement with Chris Church and Professor Oli Mould from the Department of Geography at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Oral Histories
Join Dr. Toby Butler and Dr. Saskia Papadakis - part of the team behind the History of the Environmental Movement project for the Department of Geography at Royal Holloway University, London as they reflect on the use of oral history interviews as a tool within geography projects and explore the unique insights gained from interviewing environmental activists.
Reflections on an expedition: Oman
Catch up with explorer Mark Evans as he reflects on his expedition to Oman - the opportunities, challenges and how his adventure compared with 20th Century explorer Bertram Thomas.
Breaking the Cycle
Join us for an exciting podcast with expedition cyclist Dr. Kate Leeming who is embarking on a 10,500 km bicycle journey through the heart of Central Asia. Kate will be travelling for 5 months exploring the geography, history and cultural importance of this region with a particular focus on water resources - a topic that is critical not only to Central Asia but to the world.
Climate Change, a Russian Perspective
Russia is often overlooked with respect to its role in climate change conversations. However, this vast country with a population of over 140 million, a wealth of fossil fuels, and diverse ecosystems, has an important role to play in the causes and effects of climate change. Join us as we talk to Professor Jonathan Oldfield from the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences at the Univ
Voices from the Global South with the OU
In this podcast we speak to Michael Pryke, Colin Lorne and Benjamin Newman who have collaborated on an inspiring project titled 'Voices from the Global South'. An initiative which is part of the Open Learn provision from The Open University, comprises six short films designed to stimulate reflection on how geography deepens our understanding of the climate crisis and its far-reaching impacts.
Jewel of Arabia with Mark Evans MBE FRGS
Listen to Mark Evans, MBE FRGS talk about his incredible 30-day journey across most of Oman’s coast, from Ras Al Hadd to Salalah, retracing the steps of British explorer Bertram Thomas’ 1928 expedition.
Natural Hazards & Disaster Risk with Dr Martin Parham
In conversation with Dr Martin Parham, lecturer in disaster management in the HCRI at the University of Manchester, talking all things disaster risk with a specific focus on Small Island Nations.
Connecting with our oceans with the Ocean Conservation Trust
In conversation with Freyja Thomson-Alberts - Ocean Engagement Manager for the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT) based at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth.
In this podcast we look at the work the OCT is doing and how communities can become more connected to their blue space.
Discovering Minerals with Nadine Gabriel
A fascinating discussion about minerals with Nadine Gabriel, Curator of Minerals at the Natural History Museum in London and how studying Geography at school helped spark her interest in this area of Earth Science.
Seascapes with Royal Holloway University
An insightful podcast with Dr. Rachael Squire and Prof. Kim Peters from Royal Holloway University, London addressing people’s relationships with the ocean. They explore our historic connections, how this can change, and the role aquariums have as a means to help us become more in tune with marine environments.
Geography teachers Fiona Sheriff and Dr Cyrus Golding on winning the OS Award 2024
Discussion with Fiona Sheriff and Dr Cyrus Golding - recipients of the 2024 Ordnance Survey Award for excellence in geography education at secondary level.
Population Change in Britain Since C19th with Professor Alice Reid
Professor Alice Reid is a historical demographer, working on fertility, mortality and health in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. She joins us to talk about reasons why these factors affected changes in population in the UK at this time.
Maps of Ukraine
An interesting insight into the role maps have on understanding a sense of place. Speaking to Dr Katie Parker at the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) who explores ten maps of Ukraine from the 1800s to present day and reveals what they show and why.
Saving our seas with Sally Earthrowl
Sally Earthrowl is a British geographer and educator who has a wealth of experience in exploring our seas and oceans.
In this podcast she delves into her exploration of the seas that was ignited by seeing plastic pollution in Bali. This led her to investigate the great ocean garbage patches with eXXpedition then, later, monitoring the impacts of climate change in the Arctic with Barba Boat.
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Geopolitics and new perspectives on Arctic governance with Dr Ingrid Medby
Geopolitics and new perspectives on Arctic governance with Dr Ingrid Medby by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Flight of The Osprey with Sacha Dench aka the human swan
Flight of The Osprey with Sacha Dench aka the human swan by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The Priestley Centre's 'Ask a Climate Researcher' series
In this episode we join forces with The Priestley Centre at the University of Leeds to discuss their YouTube series ‘Ask a Climate Researcher’ and the art of science communication more broadly. You can get involved using the hashtag #AskAClimateResearcher, via The Priestley Centre website.
Fraying Ties: what is the UK oil industry? Professor Bridge explains
Fraying Ties: what is the UK oil industry? Professor Bridge explains by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Everyday Drone Stories with Dr Anna Jackman and David Holmes
Everyday Drone Stories with Dr Anna Jackman and David Holmes by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
ONE - a global movement to end extreme poverty and preventable disease by 2030 | David McNair
David McNair is the Executive Director for global policy at ONE – a global movement aiming to eradicate extreme poverty and preventable disease by 2030. ONE lobby governments, promote social and climate justice and run active campaigns such as The Global Fund, which has saved 44 million lives from AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.
In this podcast the discussion focuses on effective activism, the i
Geography teachers Simon Holland and Ellie Barker on winning the OS Award 2023
11:30 The CGeog application
18:50 The Southern Ocean
23:35 What's the trick to recruiting students into the subject?
29:15 Audio-visual tips
Dr Laurie Parsons on globalism and 'carbon colonialism'
Dr Laurie Parsons on globalism and 'carbon colonialism' by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Plastics in the Pacific: an archipelago under threat | Katie Deakin and Georgie Savage
Plastics in the Pacific: an archipelago under threat | Katie Deakin and Georgie Savage by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Alistair Hamill and Iram Sammar on ArcGIS and decolonising the curriculum | OS Award winners 2022
01:25 Alistair Hamill
22:55 Iram Sammar
40:45 What books can you recommend to teachers?
Remote sensing and hazard risk management with Dr Ekbal Hussain
Remote sensing and hazard risk management with Dr Ekbal Hussain by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Marine plastic in the Southern Ocean with Dr Clara Manno
Marine plastic in the Southern Ocean with Dr Clara Manno by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Migrant Remittances and COVID-19 | Professors Kavita Datta and Elaine Chase
Migrant Remittances and COVID-19 | Professors Kavita Datta and Elaine Chase by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Decolonising Frank Oates: a snapshot in time during the Victorian era of exploration
Decolonising Frank Oates: a snapshot in time during the Victorian era of exploration by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
How 'not to build a capital' with Dr Pojani | Nusantara, Indonesia
How 'not to build a capital' with Dr Pojani | Nusantara, Indonesia by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Why cryptocurrency is so bad for the environment | Dr Pete Howson
Why cryptocurrency is so bad for the environment | Dr Pete Howson by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The Allerton Project with farmer and conservationist Joe Stanley
The Allerton Project with farmer and conservationist Joe Stanley by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Dr Sabina Lawreniuk on female workers in the global garment industry
Dr Sabina Lawreniuk on female workers in the global garment industry by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Elliot Arthur-Worsop and the story of Football For Future | part 2
Elliot Arthur-Worsop and the story of Football For Future | part 2 by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Geography, identity and football with journalist David Goldblatt | part 1
Geography, identity and football with journalist David Goldblatt | part 1 by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Art and the representation of place with Francesca Sanders
Art and the representation of place with Francesca Sanders by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The Stay Home Stories project
The Stay Home Stories project by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
COVID-19 through the lens of a health geographer
COVID-19 through the lens of a health geographer by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The Routes Journal: what is it?
The Routes Journal: what is it? by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Professors Mike Bradshaw and Klaus Dodds on the war in Ukraine, geopolitics and energy
Professors Mike Bradshaw and Klaus Dodds on the war in Ukraine, geopolitics and energy by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
39 Ways to Save the Planet with Professor Vincent Gauci
39 Ways to Save the Planet with Professor Vincent Gauci by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Why are soils essential? Dr Daniel Evans answers
Why are soils essential? Dr Daniel Evans answers by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
How to record audio when out in the field with Celia Robbins
How to record audio when out in the field with Celia Robbins by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Asian mega-deltas with Professor Large and Dr Henderson
Asian mega-deltas with Professor Large and Dr Henderson by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
How to use ArcGIS in geography with Jason Sawle
How to use ArcGIS in geography with Jason Sawle by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Cartograms and cartography with Professor Ben Hennig
Cartograms and cartography with Professor Ben Hennig by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Professor Yadvinder Malhi on climate change and ecosystem recovery
Professor Yadvinder Malhi on climate change and ecosystem recovery by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Geography teacher Ben Ranson on studying Core Maths and teaching numeracy
Geography teacher Ben Ranson on studying Core Maths and teaching numeracy by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The geopolitics of Chinese investment and influence in Africa with Dinko Hanaan Dinko
The geopolitics of Chinese investment and influence in Africa with Dinko Hanaan Dinko by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Professor Lindsey McEwen and the DRY Utility resources
Professor Lindsey McEwen and the DRY Utility resources by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Responsible and ethical use of location data with Doug Specht
Responsible and ethical use of location data with Doug Specht by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Dr Roucoux and the tropical peatlands of Peru
Dr Roucoux and the tropical peatlands of Peru by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Dr Jess Hope and Grace Healy on sustainable development: what does Bolivia teach us?
Dr Jess Hope and Grace Healy on sustainable development: what does Bolivia teach us? by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Ofsted HMI Iain Freeland on what contributes to high-quality curricula, assessment and pedagogy
Ofsted HMI Iain Freeland on what contributes to high-quality curricula, assessment and pedagogy by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Jane Rumble, Head of the FCDO Polar Regions Department, on Antarctica and the Arctic
Jane Rumble, Head of the FCDO Polar Regions Department, on Antarctica and the Arctic by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Teachers Hafsa Bobat and Kate Stockings on receiving the 2021 Ordnance Survey Award
Teachers Hafsa Bobat and Kate Stockings on receiving the 2021 Ordnance Survey Award by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
Geographer and entrepreneur Nicholas 'Charles Tyrwhitt' Wheeler
Geographer and entrepreneur Nicholas 'Charles Tyrwhitt' Wheeler by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
The surprise bestseller: Small Gases, Big Effect by David Nelles and Christian Serrer
The surprise bestseller: Small Gases, Big Effect by David Nelles and Christian Serrer by Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)
