Barks and Biomes – Season 1, Episode 1: Welcome
Length: 13:11

In this welcome episode of Barks and Biomes, Helen asks a deceptively simple question: what is the “best” food for pets, people and wildlife if we care about health, longevity and the planet we share? From muddy English country lanes and Amazon rivers to Florida’s algae‑closed beaches, she weaves together stories of dogs, jaguars and humans to show how invisible microbiomes, land use and deforestation connect our bowls, our bodies and our biomes. As a mature animal science student, Helen shares why she started the podcast, why nutrition and microbes are fundamental to life on Earth, and how tech, tradition and natural behaviour all intersect in animal and human wellbeing. She closes with a happy fact about stingless bees in Peru gaining legal protection, and invites you to join a community that’s curious, compassionate and ready to rethink what we feed, how we live, and how we protect the ecosystems that keep us alive.

EcoJurisprudence (2025) ‘Perú National Law: stingless bees a matter of national interest’, EcoJurisprudence Monitor, 8 January. Available at: https://ecojurisprudence.org/initiatives/peru-national-law-stingless-bees-a-matter-of-national-interest/

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Disclaimer

Barks and Biomes is for education and storytelling only. The stories and examples in this episode are Helen’s own, and any science mentioned comes from published research and trusted sources listed in the show notes. This podcast is not a substitute for medical, nutritional or veterinary advice – always speak to a qualified professional about your own or your animals’ health.