Biosynthetic Rhino Horn | Juliette Marquis

In this Podcast, Robbie speaks with filmmaker Juliette Marquis about ‘Hornmaker', her documentary exploring biosynthetic Rhino horn and the systems shaping wildlife conservation. They unpack the economics behind the illegal trade, the controversy around proposed solutions, and the difficult question of how conservation efforts can be held accountable. The conversation also looks at what gives rhino horn its value, why carved objects—not just medicinal uses—are central to the market, and why the artisans and traders who handle the material may be important to understanding how it works. Juliette shares what surprised her during years of research, including concerns about conservation strategies, demand-reduction campaigns, and whether organisations are truly measuring their impact.

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Special thanks to:
• Juliette Marquis

Video Chapters:
[00:00] Red Wine, Rhinos & Horn Maker
[03:22] Why Juliet Became a Filmmaker
[06:42] How Horn Maker Found Its Story
[09:32] The Elephant Poaching Crisis
[12:15] Wildlife Trafficking & Conservation Strategies
[15:11] The Biofabricated Rhino Horn Idea
[16:32] The Market of Lemons Theory Explained
[19:09] How Juliet Found Matthew Marcus
[23:03] 10 Years to Make Horn Maker
[26:16] Matthew Marcus Watches the Film
[28:55] Why Rhino Horn Is So Valuable
[31:27] Matthew’s Hacker Mindset
[37:27] Who Really Opposed Biofabricated Horn?
[41:21] The Truth About Rhino Horn Demand
[45:29] The Secret Yemen Rhino Horn Order
[46:44] Why Conservation Groups Fought Back
[50:21] The Problem With Conservation Accountability
[54:01] How Conservation Changed Juliet’s View
[57:30] The Conservation Machine
[1:00:02] WWF, Conservation & Human Rights
[1:02:26] Why Rhino Trade Policies Lack Data
[1:04:18] When Will Horn Maker Be Released?
[1:07:35] Should Rhino Horn Trade Be Legal?
[1:10:20] Who Should Measure Conservation Success?
[1:12:55] Why Conservation Needs More Nuance
[1:14:00] Final Thoughts on Horn Maker

About:
Origins Foundation is a global storytelling initiative dedicated to promoting the truth about hunting and conservation. Founded by Dr. Robbie Kröger, Origins Foundation seeks to bridge the divide between hunters and non-hunters by sharing authentic stories that showcase the role of ethical hunting in wildlife management, habitat preservation, and community empowerment. By fostering meaningful conversations and dispelling misconceptions, Origins Foundation ensures that hunting remains a respected and vital conservation tool.

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