Episode 38: Why we shouldn’t be afraid of sharks with Bertie Gregory

This week Emma is joined by Bertie Gregory, National Geographic explorer and wildlife filmmaker. 

Winner of numerous awards, including a BAFTA, EMMY and the 2025 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year, Bertie captures wildlife in challenging and intimate environments all around the world. 

In his latest show Sharks Up Close with Bertie Gregory, Bertie aims to dive cage-free with great white sharks off the coast of South Africa. He shares the highlights and challenges of filming these incredible predators, from nature’s unexpected joys to its unpredictability. 

Bertie also reflects on his filmmaking journey, from a young wildlife fanatic, to creating shows on Disney+ and being a part of National Geographic.

In this episode Bertie talks about: 

  • Why sharks are misunderstood

  • The challenges of filming great whites

  • What it’s like getting up close with wild animals

  • What fuels his desire for storytelling and showcasing wildlife 

  • The importance of letting nature recover

  • His views on the responsibility of a wildlife filmmaker

Bertie’s passion for storytelling, the natural world and documenting wildlife is unfaltering. He’s full of inspiration and wisdom, and also offers a ton of advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps. 

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Title image credit: National Geographic

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Episode 39: How to design your home with Olivia Caplan

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Episode 37: Ultrarunning and sustainability with Damian Hall