“Meet the Neighbors”: Exploring Animal Intelligence with Brandon Keim

Science journalist and author Brandon Keim joins us to discuss his groundbreaking book “Meet the Neighbors,” exploring how recognizing animals as thinking, feeling beings transforms our relationship with nature. From urban wildlife to conservation ethics, Keim bridges the gap between scientific research and public understanding of animal intelligence, while offering hope for meaningful change in how we interact with the creatures around us.

Key Discussion Points:
• How scientific understanding of animal intelligence has evolved
• The intersection of journalism, activism, and animal advocacy
• Indigenous perspectives on wildlife and conservation
• Creating change at both systemic and personal levels
• Finding hope for animals in uncertain times

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Brandon Keim, contributing editor at Nautilus and acclaimed science journalist, explores animal consciousness and human-wildlife relationships in his work. His latest book, ‘Meet the Neighbors,’ investigates animal personhood and cognitive abilities, examining how recognizing animals as thinking, feeling beings transforms our relationship with nature. His groundbreaking reporting on animal intelligence, wildlife conservation, and environmental science appears in The New York Times, National Geographic, and The Atlantic. Based in Maine, Keim bridges the gap between scientific research and public understanding of animal sentience.

RESOURCES

• • 20 big cats die from bird flu at Washington wildlife sanctuary
  • Liv Boeree Finishes Fourth For the Biggest Ever Female Player Score!
  • Episode 491: Garrett Greer is Betting on Everyone Going Vegan
  • Experts Recommend US Dietary Guidelines Prioritize Plant-Based Proteins
  • Veganuary website
  • Animal Journalism with Jessica Scott-Reid
  • How Easy Is It to Get a Humane Label for Meat? Very
  • Brandon Keim’s website
  • The Catbird Seat: Brandon Keim’s Substack

INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read this episode's interview.

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