Episode 268: Naude Dreyer - Director of Ocean Conservation Namibia

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by Naude Dreyer, founder of Ocean Conservation Namibia (OCN), marine wildlife rescuer, conservationist, and one of the world's leading experts in disentangling seals from marine debris. What began with a single seal caught in a fishing net over a decade ago has grown into an internationally recognized rescue organization that has saved thousands of marine animals and inspired millions through social media.Born and raised in Namibia, Dreyer shares how a childhood spent around wildlife and the ocean eventually led him to dedicate his life to protecting marine animals. He recounts the moment that changed everything—rescuing a young seal hopelessly tangled in fishing gear and realizing that without intervention, the animal would have died. That rescue sparked an obsession that ultimately became Ocean Conservation Namibia.We get an inside look at the realities of marine wildlife rescue as Dreyer explains how his team patrols seal colonies containing tens of thousands of animals, searching for seals entangled in fishing nets, packing bands, ropes, and plastic waste. He shares dramatic rescue stories, including seals trapped beneath massive bundles of fishing net, animals tied together by marine debris, and the heartbreaking consequences of ocean pollution.He shares a story of a challenging rescue of a stranded whale, rehabilitating endangered African penguins, and even relocating venomous snakes. Along the way, Dreyer discusses the risks rescuers face—from seal bites and whale strikes to the recent emergence of rabies within seal populations.Beyond the rescues, Dreyer explains how OCN has become a powerful voice for ocean conservation, using social media and education programs to raise awareness about marine pollution and inspire action around the world. He shares insights into the growing plastic crisis, the impact of discarded fishing gear on marine ecosystems, and the simple steps individuals can take to make a difference.Enjoy!References:https://www.ocnamibia.org/https://www.youtube.com/c/OceanConservationNamibiahttps://www.instagram.com/oceanconservationnamibia/?hl=enhttps://youtu.be/ZvWBFPtpOKY?si=M-GJM8erOCeJqbRFThank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: READYBAR https://getreadybar.com/We also have some amazing companies supporting The Real ResQ. These brands offer you exclusive discounts when you use our code, and when you do, you’re helping to support the show. To check out the full list of these supportive brands and the deals they offer, head over to TheRealResQ.com.Follow The Real ResQ for all updates on Facebook, Instagram or visit TheRealResQ.com