25: Mycologist Giuliana Furci - Fungi Will Change How You See the World

About this episode

Fungi are everywhere. Under our feet, in our food, in our medicines. Yet they remain one of the most overlooked kingdoms of life. In this episode of Wonderstruck, we speak to mycologist Giuliana Furci, a self-taught champion for fungi and founder of the first NGO in the world dedicated to fungal conservation, the Fungi Foundation. She reveals how mushrooms shape ecosystems, inspire culture, and hold ancient knowledge. They are alchemists of decay, transforming death and toxins into the fertile ground of new life. From sacred candlelit ceremonies to songs created with a cloud forest that has rights, Giuliana’s stories may change how you see the world forever. We explore: • How fungi sustain life on Earth and make our survival possible • Documenting indigenous relationships with fungi, from birth control to healing • The Song of the Cedars with Robert Macfarlane, Cosmo Sheldrake, César Rodríguez-Garavito • Sacred mushrooms, Mazatec culture and Maria Sabina • Why protecting fungi may shape the future of our planet Giuliana’s story is a testament to what can happen when we follow our calling and, in the words of Giuliana's mother, that something doesn't have to be done in ord