The secret lives of orcas

In this Valentine’s Day-themed episode, From Here Forward goes beyond conventional ideas of romance to explore love, cooperation, and connection in the marine world. Hosts Carol Eugene Park and Jeevan Sangha are joined by UBC professor Dr. Andrew Trites, Director of the Marine Mammal Research Unit, to discuss groundbreaking research revealing a surprisingly collaborative relationship between orcas and dolphins. From dolphin “scouts” and killer whale teamwork to physical touch as a love language, this episode reimagines companionship through the eyes—and sonar—of our marine mammal cousins. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Contact CarolContact JeevanFrom Here ForwardFrom Here Forward is on LinkedInThe Truth About Love - From Here Forward's Valentine's 2025 EpisodePodium Podcast CompanyDr. Andrew TritesMarine Mammal Research UnitOrca and Dolphin Cooperative Foraging ResearchUBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries (00:00) - Introduction (01:44) - Meet Dr. Andrew Trites (03:13) - Romantic Facts From the Marine World (03:51) - The Orca–Dolphin Foraging Study and How It Began (06:38) - Discovering Cooperation Underwater (10:07) - What the Data Revealed About Communication and Teamwork (12:28) - The Team Behind the Research Project (15:48) - Watching the Footage and Seeing Through a Whale’s Eyes (19:27) - Physical Touch, Bonding, and Social Life in Orcas (20:42) - Andrew Trites’ Journey into Marine Science (22:55) - Climate Anxiety, Optimism, and Ocean Ambassadors (24:31) - Lessons on Communication, Perspective, and Love (25:40) - Conclusion