From Africa to Yellowstone: Tom Opre on Conservation Stories That Matter
This week I’m sitting down with Tom Opre — filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, a nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting people and wildlife through powerful documentary films.Tom has spent his career behind the camera, capturing stories of rural areas and the people who call them home. Over the years, he’s witnessed a growing disconnect between rural communities and urban audiences when it comes to conservation. His belief is simple but bold: protecting land and wildlife isn’t just about “rewilding” — it’s about humans actively managing resources and preserving centuries-old livelihoods so future generations can thrive.A Different Kind of StorytellingThrough the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, Tom is on a mission to tell those stories and spark honest conversations about what conservation really means.To bring this vision to life, Tom has directed three amazing, critically-acclaimed documentaries:Killing the ShepherdAn award-winning film following a small African village led by a woman chief fighting back against poaching and poverty. Screened at global festivals and even the U.S. Capitol, the film has sparked real conversations about conservation and social justice.The Last KeeperSet in the Scottish Highlands, this documentary dives into how modern government policies are displacing long-standing rural communities and threatening the Scottish landscape.The Real YellowstoneTom’s newest project tells the story of the American West’s ranchers, outfitters, and conservationists caught at the crossroads of tradition and modern land pressures. It’s the raw, real-life version of what Taylor Sheridan dramatized in Yellowstone — as Tom says, “this is real life.”Here’s the exciting part: The Real Yellowstone is hosting an exclusive digital streaming event. This event will vanish after September 15th. No replays. No second chance. Don’t miss the chance to see it!Tom and I went so deep in our conversation that this is a two-part special:Part 1 (out today): We explore Killing the Shepherd and The Last Keeper — covering everything from rural Africa’s fight for survival to Scotland’s historic tensions between landowners and city dwellers.Part 2 (coming next): We dive into The Real Yellowstone and talk about the sacrifices of progress, the rancher’s way of life, and why these stories matter for the future of both land and wildlife.If you love filmmaking, history, conservation, or just real-world stories with real stakes — you’ll want to hear this one.
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Building a City That Thrives: A Conversation with Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer
This week on The Interview, Leslie sits down with Mayor Scott Singer of Boca Raton, Florida—a longtime friend and a leader making headlines for his bold vision and steady hand in public service.Scott shares the story of leaving New York to return to South Florida, what motivated him to first run for City Council, and how his passion for creating jobs and opportunities has shaped Boca Raton into a thriving community. From recruiting businesses and lowering taxes to spearheading transformative infrastructure like Brightline high-speed rail, Scott offers a masterclass in what it means to lead with both vision and pragmatism.They also dig into big-picture themes: how cities can rebound from decline, why public safety and strong business foundations are essential, and the lessons Scott has learned from fellow mayors nationwide. This conversation goes beyond policy and politics. At its core, this episode is about vision, service, and the impact one leader can have on an entire community.If you’ve ever wondered how cities reinvent themselves, how mayors make decisions that shape daily life, or what leadership looks like when done well — this episode will give you a front-row seat.🎧 Stream the full episode now — and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie for more behind-the-scenes from our guests.EPISODE SPONSORS: Go to www.tenmiledistillery.com and use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your order of award-winning spirits
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Nick Mele: A Modern Day Slim Aarons
Earlier this summer, as part of our Summer Travel Series, we featured Newport, Rhode Island through the lens of celebrated photographer Nick Mele.This week, we’re back with part two of our conversation, turning to Nick’s career journey, creative process, and signature style that blends timeless elegance with humor.Often referred to as a modern-day Slim Aarons, Nick has carved out a space as one of today’s most distinctive visual storytellers — capturing Newport’s coastal charm, the vibrancy of Palm Beach society, and the whimsical details that bring luxury culture to life.In this episode, Nick opens up about the winding road to becoming a fine art photographer:How bartending at 30 with a young family sparked his rediscovery of photographyWhat he learned from working with legendary society photographer Patrick McMullanWhy access and authenticity became his competitive edge in an oversaturated marketHow humor transformed into a cornerstone of his signature styleWhat’s next as he expands further into fine art and lifestyle photographyIf you’re passionate about creativity, photography, luxury culture, and the art of storytelling, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.🎧 Stream the full episode now — and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie for more behind-the-scenes from our guests.EPISODE SPONSORS:Go to cozyearth.com and use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% off best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Go to www.tenmiledistillery.com and use code "THEINTERVIEW" for 10% off your order of award-winning spirits
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East Hampton and Beyond - feat. Sarah Wetenhall
This week on The Interview with Leslie Heaney, we’re traveling back to the sandy shores of Long Island with Sarah Wetenhall, a life-long summer resident in and around East Hampton and the co-owner and CEO of The Hedges Inn in East Hampton and The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.Back in 2016, Sarah and her husband Andrew, took over The Colony Hotel (an iconic hotel that had formerly been owned by her father-in-law) - blending the Colony’s timeless style with modern luxury, creating designer collaborations, resurrecting the celebrated Swifty’s restaurant, and curating experiences that keep guests coming back year after year.Now, the Wetenhalls have brought that same philosophy to The Hedges Inn in East Hampton, transforming the historic 13-room inn into a boutique luxury escape. From private beach setups and partnerships with Volvo for guest transportation to menus inspired by local farm stands, Sarah is redefining what “full-service” means in the Hamptons.In this episode, Sarah and I talk about everything from the renaissance of The Colony Hotel and now The Hedges under her and her husband’s ownership, to all of her favorite spots in and around East Hampton. Our conversation covers all of Sarah’s favorite restaurants, spots for families, places to shop, amazing events in the area in the summer and fall and all of the incredible outdoor activities available from visiting one of the most beautiful beaches in America - Main Beach in East Hampton - to getting paddle board lessons from an adorable instructor! Whether you’re dreaming of a late summer or early fall getaway to East Hampton, or learning more about this female business leader who has revitalized two iconic hotels, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!Stream it now! And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslieEPISODE SPONSORS: Go to cozyearth.com and use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% offbest-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Tenmile Distillery is home to the award-winning Little Rest Whisky -- All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.
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Aspen Awaits - feat. Alicia Adams
EPISODE SPONSORS: Cozy Earth: use code “INTERVIEW” for 40% offbest-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more.Tenmile Distillery: All Interview listeners will receive 10% off their order when they use code “THEINTERVIEW” at checkout.Our next stop in the Summer Travel Series takes us to the Rockies for a deep dive into one of Colorado’s most glamorous and adventure-filled destinations: Aspen, CO.Joining me is my good friend, resident, entrepreneur, and founder of Alicia Adams Alpaca, Alicia Adams—whose luxurious alpaca pieces are just as warm and beautiful as she is.From sipping coffee at a café with “New York water” bagels to hiking breathtaking trails like American Lake and Smuggler, Alicia shares the best ways to experience Aspen year-round. Alicia reveals her favorite places to stay, from iconic spots like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome to charming boutique hotels, and talks about the outdoor adventures that make Aspen so special, including paddle boarding on Stillwater, mountain biking, fly fishing, and the must-do Wednesday night rodeo in Snowmass.This episode covers Aspen’s incredible food and drink scene, from cozy breakfasts and sushi with a view to insider cocktail spots, along with the best places to shop, like cowboy boots and hats at Kemo Sabe or unique finds at Carl’s Pharmacy.Alicia even gives us a taste of Aspen’s cultural side, with music festivals, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and the peaceful John Denver Sanctuary.Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a winter ski trip, this episode is your backstage pass to experiencing Aspen like a local.And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie
The Interview with Leslie Heaney is a podcast that features interviews with experts and thought leaders in everything from fashion and the arts to policy, the law, business, medicine and science. If a topic is relevant and compelling, it is covered on The Interview.
Host Leslie Heaney is excited to share these compelling stories with you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, having learnt something new, and having shared a few laughs along the way.
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