In this week’s episode of #SayAgain, Nat Geo Explorer Arati Kumar-Rao shares the hidden beauty of local wisdom, from 40 names for clouds, to how her local friend and guide shared the inherent wisdom and knowledge of how to find water even in the harsh dunes of a desert. The power of wonder underscores all that she does.

Through her work as a writer, artist, and environmental journalist, Arati discusses her journey behind Marginlands: Landscapes on the Brink, a pivot from corporate life, and her approach to slow journalism documenting fragile ecosystems. Join host Amrita Tripathi for an exploration of perseverance, mentorship, and connecting with nature—and ourselves—through stories often left untold. Tune in to this enriching conversation, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode.

Youtube: @amritatrips | Instagram: @amritatrips | X: @amritat

Website: amritatripathi.com

Show Notes:

• Introduction to Arati Kumar-Rao: National Geographic Explorer, BBC #Top100Women (2023), Environmental journalist, Author and photographer
• The Gift of Wonder: How curiosity and wonder can ground us and show us hidden wisdom
• Marginlands: Landscapes on the Brink: Highlights from her phenomenal book
• Stories from the Desert: The 40 Names of Clouds, the immense power and beauty of local wisdom that’s often overlooked
• Slow Journalism: Arati’s approach to documenting fragile landscapes and ecosystems
• Career Transition: From corporate life to environmental storytelling
• Challenges and Mentorship: Overcoming self-doubt and the role of mentors in her journey
• Climate Crisis: The role of understanding local geographies in addressing environmental challenges
• Aging and Wisdom: The experience and liberating aspect of aging, of starting afresh
• Fiction Writing: Arati’s current interests in exploring fiction writing and keeping a beginner’s mindset