ZSL's Wildest Moments

Under starlit skies and glowing bioluminescence, Megan McCubbin found herself face to face with one of the ocean's most misunderstood predators - sharks. In this episode of Wildest Moments, host Ben Fogle speaks with the conservationist and TV presenter about an unforgettable night in the Bahamas, where she helped tag a juvenile tiger shark for research. It was a moment that was as exhilarating as it was humbling - and one that cemented her passion for shark conservation. Joining the conversation is Dr David Curnick, who leads the Ocean Predators Lab at ZSL. Together, they explore the vital role sharks play in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, challenge common misconceptions, and reflect on why these powerful animals deserve our respect - not our fear. From the awe of close encounters to the science behind ocean conservation, this episode is a powerful reminder that understanding leads to appreciation - and that protecting sharks is essential to protecting our seas. About Wildest Moments: Hosted by Ben Fogle and created in partnership with Mountain Warehouse, Wildest Moments is a podcast from ZSL (Zoological Society of London) exploring the surprising, emotional and transformative encounters people have had with wildlife. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of every month. Launched as part of ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series celebrates over two centuries of inspiring closer connections between people and the natural world. Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon ZSL editorial leads: Tina Campanella and Rebecca Blanchard Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić Sound Engineer - Jon Last Video Editor - Carla Mercer Cover Art - Will Rose Recorded at TYX Studios, London.

When Professor Chris van Tulleken was invited to London Zoo early in his career to help diagnose a poorly gorilla named Kesho, he expected to analyse a sample in a lab. What followed was a case he would never forget. In this episode of Wildest Moments, host Ben Fogle speaks with the doctor, scientist and broadcaster about the moment he came face-to-face with the western lowland gorilla - and the joint investigation that uncovered a rare chromosomal condition. Joining the conversation is ZSL Animal Manager Dan Simmonds, who cared for Kesho at the time as a zookeeper. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration across medical disciplines - from veterinary science to human medicine - in understanding and protecting the health of all species. It's a powerful story about curiosity, connection, and how the health of people, animals and ecosystems is deeply intertwined. About Wildest Moments:Hosted by Ben Fogle and created in partnership with Mountain Warehouse, Wildest Moments is a podcast from ZSL (Zoological Society of London) exploring the surprising, emotional and transformative encounters people have had with wildlife. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of every month. Launched as part of ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series celebrates over two centuries of inspiring closer connections between people and the natural world. Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon ZSL editorial leads: Tina Campanella and Rebecca Blanchard Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić Sound Engineer - Jon Last Video Editor - Carla Mercer Cover Art - Will Rose

When Cam Whitnall saw a video of five lions fighting for survival in war-torn Ukraine, he made a decision that would change his life - and theirs - forever. In this episode of Wildest Moments, host Ben Fogle speaks with the wildlife photographer, author, presenter and Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, about his extraordinary childhood growing up in a zoo and how it ultimately led to a dramatic rescue mission that captured hearts around the world. Joining the conversation is ZSL Curator of Mammals Sarah Forsyth, who offers insight into the unique expertise required to carry out complex wildlife rescues, and the remarkable skills, collaboration and dedication of the people working for wildlife in zoos and conservation organisations around the globe. Together they explore how encounters with animals can inspire a lifetime of conservation action and offer hope for the future. It's a powerful story of perseverance, compassion and the human drive to protect wildlife even in the most impossible circumstances. About Wildest Moments: Hosted by Ben Fogle and created in partnership with Mountain Warehouse, Wildest Moments is a podcast from ZSL (Zoological Society of London) exploring the surprising, emotional and transformative encounters people have had with wildlife. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of every month. Launched as part of ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series celebrates over two centuries of inspiring closer connections between people and the natural world. Credits Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić Sound Engineer - Jon Last Video Editor - Carla Mercer Cover Art - Will Rose ZSL editorial leads: Tina Campanella and Rebecca Blanchard Recorded at TYX Studios, London.

Wildest Moments is a new wildlife and conservation podcast from international conservation charity ZSL, hosted by Ben Fogle. Created to celebrate ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series shares powerful stories of life-changing encounters with nature, alongside expert insight from ZSL scientists and conservationists. The first three episodes launch on 19 March. Listen to the trailer now. Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić Sound Engineer - Jon Last Video Editor - Carla Mercer Cover Art - Will Rose Recorded at TYX Studios, London A Peanut & Crumb production for ZSL, in partnership with Mountain Warehouse.