Michael Mitchell
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Public Speaking

Summary

After completing a rewarding career as both a Naval Officer and a state game warden, I have now settled in Austin, Texas, where I devote much of my time to sharing my passion for the outdoors. My lifelong connection to service and conservation has given me a unique perspective on the natural world, one that I now channel into educating others about the beauty, complexity, and importance of wildlife and wild landscapes.

I regularly partner with nature organizations, conservation groups, and community associations not only here in Texas but also across the United States. Whether it is a small gathering of local enthusiasts or a larger statewide or national event, I find great joy in connecting with people who are eager to learn more about the outdoors.

My approach to speaking is intentionally relaxed and welcoming. I believe education is most meaningful when it feels like a conversation, so I incorporate plenty of interaction and encourage questions and dialogue. Storytelling is at the heart of my presentations—I draw on experiences from my years of service and from time spent in the field to bring concepts to life in a way that is engaging, memorable, and often entertaining.

​If you know of a group, organization, or event looking for an approachable and dynamic speaker on topics related to wildlife, conservation, or the natural environment, I would be delighted to connect. Sharing these stories and sparking curiosity about the natural world is not just what I do—it’s what I love.

Current Speaking Topics

NEW! ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE IN CONSERVATION LAW ENFORCEMENT
Last presented at the National Conservation Training Center, 2025.
Optimal time 1.5 hours with questions and answers. Non law enforcement will be redacted.
 
TEXAS GAME WARDEN CAREER FOR JUNIOR MASTER NATURALISTS/YOUTH
First presented at Lindheimer Chapter, New Braunfels Public Library, 2024.
Optimal time 1.5 hours with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
CONSERVATION LAWS AND ETHICS / RESOLVING MORAL AMBIGUITY
Last presented as a Texas Master Naturalist Program. 2008-2025.
Optimal time 2.5 hours with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
SCREECH OWLS, BOXES, AND CAMERAS
Last presented at Good Water Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists. 2020-2025.
Optimal time 2 hours with questions. Live is preferred due to show and tell.
 
OPERATION GAME THIEF: TEXAS’ CONSERVATION CRIMESTOPPERS PROGRAM
Last presented at the Texas Master Naturalist Program conference, 2019-2023.
Optimal time 1 hour with questions and answers
 
INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE TRAFFICKING, PANDEMICS, AND TERRORISM FUNDING
Last presented at the Texas Master Naturalist Program conference, 2021-2023.
Optimal time 1 hour with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
ANRDAGOGY: HOW ADULTS LEARN & HOW TO EFFECTIVELY DELIVER TO THEM
Last presented at the Texas Master Naturalist Program conference, 2024.
Optimal time 1.5 hours with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
DISCUSSING CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS
Last presented at the Texas Master Naturalist Program conference, 2024.
Optimal time 2 hours with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
ECOLOGICAL GRIEF: IS IT REAL AND WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN
Last presented at the Lost Pines Texas Master Naturalist chapter, 2025.
Optimal time 1.5 hours with questions and answers; taught in person only
 
TECHNICAL VERSUS ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES
Last presented at Natl Assoc of Conservation Law Enforcement Academy, 2022-2024.
Optimal time 1 hour with questions and answers
 
SOCIAL MEDIA IN CONSERVATION LAW ENFORCEMENT
Last presented at Natl Assoc of Conservation Law Enforcement Academy, 2015-2023.
Optimal time 2 hours with questions and answers
 
INVASIVE FERAL HOGS AND WHAT WE CAN DO
Presented at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute @ University of Texas, 2023.
Then at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute @ Texas Tech (Fredericksburg), 2024.
Optimal time 1.5 hours with questions and answers
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