#119: Puppets, Humanitarian Work, and Saving Elephants with Lisa Buckley
If you've seen a movie or show with a puppet, it's very possible Lisa Buckley was involved. The professional puppeteer has worked with The Muppets, Sesame Street, Alf, Men in Black and so much more.
She's taken her puppets beyond the screen to do humanitarian aid work in impoverished countries. Focusing on adverse issues such as trauma, hygiene, and gender equality, Lisa works on the front lines of refugee camps, using customized puppets as teaching tools to better the lives of those who are caught in the crossfires of upheaval, war, and disease. She's also working with the Born Free Foundation in Kenya, creating elephant puppets to raise awareness for animal welfare and conflict.
In this episode, she's sharing some of her favorite puppet characters and how they help teach all kinds of important topics.
Highlights of our conversation
How Lisa got into puppetry and how she initially wanted to be a scientist. (3:31)
The top characters Lisa has created, including a delightful poop puppet. (6:33)
The creative process for developing certain puppet characters. (8:07)
How to turn the unseen — like germs — into puppets. (10:53)
The go-to items Lisa brings whenever she travels, especially internationally. Plus, a few common items with surprising uses in other locations. (13:15)
A look at the work Lisa is doing with Born Free to raise awareness about elephants. (17:28)
How Lisa incorporates puppetry into yoga. (23:19)
What Lisa has coming up and a nice little inspirational full circle moment. (26:41)
Lisa’s top three old movies. Get your VHS tapes ready! (28:02)
Where to find Lisa Buckley
Follow Lisa’s work @sattvacreativearts on Instagram.
Learn more about what she’s doing at nostrings.org.uk.
Support the show
Thanks to Dave Zalatoris from Beer In Front for this episode’s intro. Take a listen and grow your beer knowledge. Cheers to that!
Buy a copy of Kind, But Kind of Weird: Short Stories on Life's Relationships.
Pick up some merch at the shop.
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