Stephanie Arne's
CONSERVATION ACADEMY
A in-depth course that explores the wide-world of wildlife conservation and careers. Get insider information from my personal experience (and the experts I've met along the way) that will save young conservationists time and energy as they navigate this career path. Let's discover your niche, ideal job, or unique role in local or global conservation.
Photo credit Omaha world herald
Learn to become a Conservationist in 8 weeks
Every Sunday from
January 18-March 8, 2026 5:00pm-6:00pm CST
Wildlife conservation isn't just a career; it's a lifestyle that can be fulfilling, fun, adventurous - and sometimes down-right heartbreaking. But for many who care deeply about the natural world, it's the only way to make a living.
Embarking as a volunteer, starting a community project, or applying for a paid career in this field can be daunting as the pathways are often obscure, opportunities are often scarce, and competition is always fierce.
This course is designed specifically for those passionate about making a difference for nature - whether it's in their own community, or a project on the other side of the planet. Let me offer you the insights, effective tools, and confidence to take action and accomplish your goals.
(Payment Plans Available)
Dr. Jacqueline Ogden
Retired, Vice President,
Disney's Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
"I have known Stephanie for over 10 years. She is deeply passionate about conservation, and I’ve always been impressed with her ability to not only convey this passion, but to inspire people to act on behalf of wildlife. She is skilled at working with many types of audiences in a wide variety of settings, as well as using many forms of media to inspire people. Stephanie understands the magic of telling stories to impact people. Over my career I’ve met many, many people in conservation and environmental education, and she ranks amongst the best storytellers I’ve known. Our planet is lucky to have her, as are the people she comes in contact with."
Dr. Kathayoon Khalil
Vice President of
Conservation at the
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
"Stephanie is unique in this world. Her passion, talents, and voice are critical to the work that we do as conservationists and her ideas deserve to be heard. I've worked with Steph for almost ten years; her enthusiasm is contagious and her ability to tell moving stories is unparalleled. Get to know Steph and your life will be changed!"
Mike
Malone
Cinematographer and Director, Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom Web Series 2013-2018
"Behind every great wildlife story is an unsung hero who translates nature's complexity into captivating moments. I witnessed Stephanie transcend the typical host role. She doesn't just simply narrate- she orchestrates conversations between species and viewers. Her rare ability to communicate with both skittish wildlife and skeptical humans created authentic moments impossible to script. Steph doesn't just talk about conservation; she embodies the bridge between diverse perspectives that our planet desperately needs. Her storytelling doesn't just educate-it inspires action that ripples far beyond the screen."
Coyote Peterson
Co.Founder/Host of
Brave Wilderness
"For over a decade I have known and proudly call Steph a friend, as we both share a great love and appreciation for educating the next generation about wildlife conservation. Her glowing personality is magnetic, which only compliments her witty dialogue when in front of the camera, where I have had the pleasure of working with her on several occasions. In the world of of animals, entertainment, education, and conservation, if there is one person who I can always rely on to give me unbiased, wellfounded, and brutally honest dose of advice of meaningful opinion, its stephanie. Truth be told, I am always looking forward to our next adventure, no matter what or where that may be!"
You want to be successful but...
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You're a high school student who does not know which path to take.
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You're a university/college student who isn't sure which degree is best.
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You're a recent graduate looking for training, internships, and opportunities.
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You're a community member who wants to help but doesn't know where to start.
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You're a wildlife educator or science communicator looking to expand your reach.
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You're an early-career conservationist looking to better understand the field.
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You're an career changer within the field, but you need a shortcut to find a path.
Yup, I've been there.
hitting walls. burned out. defeated.
all but accepting I will never reach the next level.
If you're passionate about wildlife conservation, (reading all the books, watching all of the films, applying to all the cool opportunities to find your ideal role) yet wondering why you close your laptop every night and feel exhausted, lost, and hopeless.
Headache after headache, you finally realize that you:
- Don't know enough about the field or roles available to know what path to take.
- Don't have the skills and experience they are looking for.
- Don't know how to network and build relationships.
- Don't know enough about the politics and challenges to secure that partner.
You know something has to change!
LET'S lift the curtain AND
REVEAL THE IDEAL PATH FOR YOU
(One that fits just like a glove.)
You're saying
"no more!"
No more applying blindly and praying to get something. No more being afraid to take action because you don't think you're good enough. No more being insecure about what to say at networking events. No more burnout. No more second-guessing decisions. No more imposter syndrome.
You’re ready to have a calculated approach to your conservation career and/or projects, showcase your competitive edge, and present yourself in a way that feels comfortable to you because you finally know where you fit on how you can make the most impact.
My Students Say
"Stephanie's unique blend of goofiness, silliness, passion, and love for wildlife and education made her an exceptional mentor. Her vibrant personality, combined with her extensive experience as a wildlife conservationist and storyteller, made learning from her both enjoyable and inspiring. From that moment on, she became an incredible mentor, helping me navigate the world of wildlife presenting and education. Her guidance, advice, and unwavering support have been invaluable in my journey as Jungle Jordan. Stephanie has not only shared her wisdom but has also uplifted me every step of the way. I’m beyond grateful for her."
- jungle jordan
Conservationist
Finding the right degree, certification, role, or project
does not have to be difficult.
You just need:
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A coach/mentor to help discover your skills and GUIDE you in the right direction.
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Confidence to expand your expertise and sell yourself without feeling sale-sy.
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A mindset makeover to transform how you think.
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To be perceived as THE go-to expert and position yourself for growth.
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Writing and applying with your personality in mind (psst...cookie-cutter NEVER works.)
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To streamline communication & set up systems that allow you to work and stress less.
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To take action where you have realistic goals and measurable outcomes.
Photo Credit Mutual of Omaha
Are you lost?
You need this course if:
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You want to know your ideal and/or unique role or project, and have sustainable success.
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You need to focus on one area or project, but don't know where to start, and are overwhelmed by the options.
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You feel uncomfortable when trying to talk about your experience or new goals and dreams.
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You want templates and lists to save you time and energy.
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You need a conservation educator to teach you about the complexities of conservation and how to share your passion with your network (or the network you want to cultivate.)
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You need to refresh your mindset.
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Want to confidently ask for mentors, partners, donations, and support.
What's included?
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Eight 60-minute group sessions with Stephanie - Tues nights 6-7 pm CST Feb 10th- March 20th.
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2- 30-minute 1:1 coaching calls.
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A process that takes you through conservation roles and projects to find a match for you.
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Worksheets and action steps to discover your skills and strengths.
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Lists of credible conservation-related professionals, influencers, trainings, certifications, colleges, universities, and organizations to make networking, partnering, and/or applying easier.
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Access to Steph for real-time personal support via the Telegram app during the 8-week course.
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Lifetime access to the private Facebook group with full access to Stephanie and the group members, so you can refine your goal, make connections, and learn from one another.
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Input from top conservationists in the form of quotes, links, research papers, podcasts, videos, and/or voice memos.
Meet your instructor and mentor
Before hiring my first coach,
I struggled to find direction in the sea of conservation needs. I was doing everything I knew how to (and then some), but nothing felt right. I was overwhelmed and stuck for longer than I want to admit.
After finding my first coach, Gary, I learned how to sift through a million ideas and streamline my goals. He helped me visualize the lifestyle behind each ambition and guided me toward what I truly wanted at my core. Together, we mapped out my strengths and talents, as well as the areas where I needed more training—mentally and physically—to pursue my dream of becoming a wildlife media host and spokesperson.
I dove into camera skills, scriptwriting, on-camera presence, and the art of networking. With those new tools—and a little courage, tenacity, and great timing—I not only hit my highest income level to date, but I also reached (and exceeded!) every goal I had set for myself.
Because I absolutely love connecting, networking, and crafting engaging wildlife-conservation messaging, I eventually started teaching others how to tap into their own power, passion, tenacity, patience, and confidence to achieve big, meaningful goals.
My latest coach (post-pandemic and post-TV show), Alisa, helped me rediscover my strengths, skills, relationships, and passion—and align them with a fresh vision for the next chapter of my life and beyond. Now I’m focused on public speaking, online courses for all ages, one-on-one coaching, and guiding conservation expeditions designed to offer insight, spark unique experiences, and support anyone who wants to make a real impact for species and spaces.
I hope you'll join me on the next adventure.
NOW IT'S YOUR TURN.
Module 1
January 20th - 6-7pmCST
Discovery Phase:
Not sure where to start? Let's find direction with your interests, skillsets, and connections, and dispel myths to boot
Module 3
February 3rd 6-7pm CST
Training & Direction
What skills do you need or want for your desired role? Let's talk training, certifications, and degrees
Module 5
February 17th 6-7pm CST
Building Resilience
Let's identify and prevent compassion fatigue and burn out
Module 7
March 3rd 6-7pm CST
Building your Brand
Have skills and the ability to work for yourself? Let's explore your options
Module 2
January 27th 6-7pm CST
Careers & More
Where do you fit? Match skills with a conservation role
You can be a volunteer or an entrepreneur.
Module 4
February 10th 6-7pm CST
In the Gray
Conservation is a people problem; Let's dive into the complexities of conservation issues.
Module 6
February 24th 6-7pm CST
Networking 101
Tips and tricks to become a master networker. Find connections, be confident, touch base, and build relationships
Module 8
March 10th 6-7pm CST
Networking 102
what is the difference between a coach, mentor, sponsor, patron, and employer?
THIS COURSE ISN'T FOR YOU IF:
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Have been in the conservation field for several years and know your best role.
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Already have a fulfilling career path or project.
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Fulfilled with your contributions to wildlife conservation.
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Gainfully employed and satisfied with your employment level and daily tasks.
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Are self-employed in a conservation-related field and do not need new contacts or ideas.
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Have no time to put yourself first, or are not willing to put in the work.
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Are not open-minded, judgmental, and only work in a black and white mindset.
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Are satisfied with your incoming opportunities, network, and networking skills.
ARE YOU ASKING:
"Is Stephanie the coach for me?"
Let me toot my own horn. So far, I have...
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I've been hired by credible companies and NGO's to share my knowledge and experience.
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Spoke to hundreds of thousands of people and live events, onstage, and during speaking tours.
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Reached millions of people through traditional media with my conservation messaging.
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I have a global network of conservation professionals and filmmakers.
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Have over 20,000 followers/subscribers.
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Sold over 500 live presentations.
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Have been an ambassador for three Fortune 500 companies.
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Hit 6-figure income goals in my business.
What is the refund policy? There are no refunds
What if I am new to conservation? This course will be great for anyone brand new, interested in conservation, or looking into changing careers or projects within the conservation field.
Is this course self-paced? How much time should I plan to invest? We will have a weekly training, that will last 90 minutes. If you can’t make it live, you will receive a replay to watch at your convenience. Outside of the training, you may want to allow 1 hour a week to dig into your homework
I'm interested in helping from my community, not looking fora. job or career? Is this still right for me?... Absolutely! We will discuss volunteerism, citizen/community science, advocacy, and even entrepreneurship