How To Protect The Ocean

High Seas Treaty | Ocean Governance | Marine Protection How do you protect an ocean that belongs to everyone and no one at the same time? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin speaks with Rebecca Hubbard, Director of the High Seas Alliance, about one of the most important ocean agreements in history: the High Seas Treaty. The high seas cover nearly half of Earth's surface and contain some of the planet's most important ecosystems. Yet for decades, there has been no comprehensive way to create marine protected areas, assess environmental i...

The High Seas Treaty took nearly 20 years to negotiate, not because countries disagreed that the ocean matters, but because ocean protection becomes much harder when money, power, access, and fairness are involved. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at why protecting the high seas is so politically difficult. From industrial fishing fleets and marine genetic resources to enforcement, ratification, and accountability, this story shows why global ocean conservation is never just about science. The treaty creates a framework for protecting biodiversity beyond national borders, but the real test is what h...

High Seas Treaty implementation is now the real test for ocean conservation. The agreement was historic, but the hardest part was never getting countries to celebrate the deal. The real challenge is what happens after the headlines disappear. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at whether the High Seas Treaty can actually change anything for biodiversity beyond national waters. The treaty creates a legal pathway for marine protected areas on the high seas, but enforcement, funding, political commitment, and accountability will determine whether those protected areas become meaningful or symbolic. <p...

High seas protection sounds powerful, but can marine protected areas actually work thousands of kilometres from shore? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin breaks down why creating protected areas beyond national waters is historic, but also incredibly difficult. The episode explores the difference between paper parks and real protection, why enforcement matters more than most people realize, and how satellite monitoring, AIS tracking, Global Fishing Watch, political will, and long-term funding could determine whether the High Seas Treaty becomes a turning point or just another promise on paper. Support Independent...

High seas conservation matters because nearly half of the planet lies beyond any one country's control. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we ask a deceptively simple question: who actually owns the ocean? Andrew breaks down what the high seas are, why international waters have historically been treated like a free-for-all, and why that approach no longer works in a world of industrial fishing, deep-sea mining interests, global shipping, and climate change. This episode explains why the high seas matter to tuna, sharks, whales, sea turtles, global food systems, and climate stability...

Forage fish may be small, but they hold Canada's ocean food web together. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin speaks with Jack Daly, marine scientist at Oceana Canada, about the new report Little Fish, Big Foundation and what it reveals about the state of forage fish across Canada. These tiny fish, including capelin, herring, mackerel, sardines, and anchovies, feed whales, seabirds, cod, salmon, sharks, and coastal communities. But many stocks are depleted, poorly understood, or managed without the long-term planning needed to rebuild abundance. This conversation looks at why forage...

Forage fish are some of the most important animals in the ocean, but most people barely know they exist. Sardines, anchovies, herring, capelin, and other small schooling fish support whales, seabirds, salmon, tuna, and commercial fisheries. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explains why forage fish are often overlooked, why their abundance matters more than people realize, and how protecting the ocean means protecting food webs, not just the famous species we love. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, o...

Small fish like sardines, anchovies, herring, and capelin may not get much attention, but they quietly power entire ocean ecosystems. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore why forage fish are some of the most important species in the sea and how climate change could disrupt the food web in ways scientists are only beginning to understand. As oceans warm and ecosystems shift, the abundance and location of these small fish are changing. That matters because whales, salmon, tuna, seabirds, cod, and countless marine predators depend on them for survival. If forage fish...

Forage fish may be small, but they help hold the ocean food web together. Species like sardines, anchovies, herring, capelin, and sand lance feed whales, seabirds, salmon, cod, tuna, and many other predators. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explains why fishing these small fish for fishmeal, fish oil, aquaculture feed, livestock feed, pet food, and supplements can create major ripple effects across marine ecosystems. The big question is not only whether forage fish populations can survive fishing pressure. It is whether the ocean can survive losing too much of t...

Forage fish may be small, but they help power the entire ocean food web. Species like sardines, anchovies, herring, capelin, and sand lance feed whales, seabirds, tuna, salmon, and many other marine predators. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explains why these overlooked fish matter so much, what happens when they decline, and why industrial fishing, climate change, and weak ecosystem-based fisheries decisions can put entire marine ecosystems at risk. Protecting the ocean is not only about saving the biggest animals. Sometimes, it starts with protecting the smallest fish. <p...

Ocean conservation funding is one of the biggest challenges facing nonprofits today. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin speaks with nonprofit consultant James Misner about why so many mission-driven organizations struggle to raise money, even when their work is urgent and important. James explains why grants alone are not enough, why donors need to see the human connection behind ocean conservation, and why storytelling, relationships, and clear communication matter just as much as the science. This conversation is essential for ocean nonprofits, conservation professionals, science communicators, and anyone trying to build long-term...

Ocean conservation is often framed as hopeful, inspiring, and mission-driven. But behind the scenes, many scientists, advocates, educators, and communicators are dealing with burnout, financial instability, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure to stay optimistic while ocean problems keep getting worse. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at the emotional cost of trying to save the ocean. From temporary contracts and unstable funding to social media pressure and the personal grief of watching ecosystems decline, conservation work can take a serious toll on the people doing it. This episode asks an i...

Ocean science can tell us what is happening to marine ecosystems, fisheries, climate impacts, and protected areas, but that information does not always reach the people who need it most. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at the communication gap between researchers, policymakers, media, industry, and the public. The problem is not always a lack of science. Often, it is that the science moves slowly, social media moves instantly, and decision-makers do not always receive clear, accessible information in time to act. This episode explores why scientific papers can be difficult for the public to access, how misinformation spreads faster than careful research, and why ocean conservation needs stronger science communication, storytelling, and public engagement to turn knowledge into action. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean conservation depends on science, but what happens when marine scientists spend more time chasing funding than doing the research itself? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at the hidden financial pressure behind ocean conservation. Research vessels, field expeditions, monitoring programs, satellite tools, underwater robotics, staff, permits, and long-term analysis all cost money, and funding is becoming harder to secure. We also explore why communication is becoming essential for scientists and conservation organizations. Storytelling, public trust, media, podcasts, social media, and digital strategy are no longer side projects. They may be the difference between a conservation project surviving or disappearing. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean conservation is a global effort worth billions, so why do so many marine scientists, nonprofits, and conservation groups still feel like they are constantly running out of money? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin breaks down why ocean conservation often operates grant to grant, donation to donation, and year to year. He explains how unstable funding affects marine protected areas, research, staffing, outreach, and long-term planning. The episode also explores why communication is becoming part of conservation infrastructure. In today's funding landscape, the organizations that can tell their story clearly often have a better chance of attracting donors, partners, and public support. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Bottom trawling is one of the most common fishing methods in the world, but what if it costs society more than it earns in profit? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at a recent study on bottom trawling in Europe that found the total societal costs can be far higher than the profits generated, in some cases up to 90 times higher. Much of that hidden cost comes from carbon released when heavy fishing gear scrapes across the seafloor. Industrial fishing is not just about what ends up on your plate. It is also about public subsidies, damaged habitats, lost carbon storage, bycatch, and whether taxpayers are helping fund practices that harm the ocean. Ocean conservation depends on asking a harder question: are we measuring seafood by market price alone, or by its full cost to society? Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean research helps us understand marine life, but what happens when the tools we use to study animals disturb the very creatures we are trying to protect? This episode looks at a powerful question in marine science: can we study the ocean without harming it? Whale sharks and other marine animals are often studied using tools like tags, drones, boats, and tracking technology. These methods can reveal migration routes, behavior, and conservation needs, but they also raise important ethical questions about disturbance, stress, and the responsibility scientists have when working around wildlife. Marine conservation is not just about what we study. It is also about how we study it. In this episode, Andrew breaks down why lower-impact research tools matter, how drones could help scientists observe some species with less interference, and why public pressure can play a role in making ocean science better. Listen to the full episode. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Blue carbon could be one of the most powerful climate solutions we already have, so why is it still missing from so many climate plans? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at how mangroves, seagrasses, salt marshes, and other coastal ecosystems store carbon, protect coastlines, and support ocean health. Ocean climate solutions are often treated as secondary to land-based actions like planting trees, but coastal habitats can store carbon in sediments for long periods of time. The problem is that many countries still do not fully include blue carbon ecosystems in their climate strategies, even though protecting and restoring them could help reduce climate risk. Blue economy action is not just about new technology or future innovation. It is also about funding, restoring, and protecting the natural systems that already work. The ocean is not separate from climate change. The ocean is climate. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Whale strandings are heartbreaking, but what happens when the whales are not sick? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we look at a recent mass pilot whale stranding in Scotland, where many of the animals appeared to be healthy before they ended up on shore. Pilot whales are highly social animals, which means one wrong turn can become a disaster for the entire pod. As prey shifts closer to shallow coastal waters, whales may follow their food into places where navigation becomes harder and the risk of stranding increases. Ocean change is the bigger story. These strandings may not just be random events. They may be signals that prey, currents, temperatures, and ecosystems are shifting in real time. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Sea Cucumbers are disappearing in parts of the ocean, and most people have no idea why that matters. These strange, soft-bodied animals might not look important, but they play a critical role in keeping marine ecosystems healthy and functioning. Ocean Ecosystems rely on sea cucumbers to recycle nutrients, clean sediments, and support the balance of life on the seafloor. When they are removed through overfishing, the consequences can ripple across entire habitats, affecting biodiversity and long-term ocean health. Overfishing Impacts are often hidden from public view, especially when they involve species people rarely think about. This episode explores why sea cucumbers are declining, what that means for the ocean, and why losing them could have bigger consequences than expected. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

NOAA affects your daily life more than you think, from the weather forecasts you check to the seafood you eat, yet most people have no idea how important it really is. In this episode, we break down what NOAA actually does, why it matters for your safety, food, and environment, and what could happen if funding cuts weaken its ability to operate. Ocean science plays a critical role in predicting hurricanes, managing fisheries, protecting marine wildlife, and understanding climate patterns like El Niño and La Niña. But when programs are cut or overlooked, the consequences ripple through communities, economies, and ecosystems in ways most people never see coming. This conversation with Jeff Watters from Ocean Conservancy reveals the hidden systems behind NOAA, why public science infrastructure matters, and what's at stake if we stop paying attention. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean exploration may sound like a niche science topic, but it affects far more than research ships and submarines. If most of the ocean remains poorly mapped and rarely observed, how can we protect habitats, predict hazards, discover new species, or understand climate change? In this episode, we break down why exploring the ocean still matters right now. NOAA ocean science plays a major role in uncovering what happens below the surface. From mapping the seafloor to discovering deep-sea ecosystems and tracking changing ocean conditions, exploration gives us the information needed to make better decisions for people and the planet. Deep-sea discovery is not just about curiosity. It is about safety, innovation, conservation, and understanding the largest living space on Earth. The surprising truth is that we know more about some distant planets than we do about our own ocean floor. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

NOAA marine wildlife protection affects whales, sea turtles, dolphins, seals, and endangered ocean species in ways most people never see. In this episode, we break down how one agency helps prevent extinctions, protects habitats, responds to strandings, and enforces laws that keep marine wildlife alive. Ocean conservation is not only about beach cleanups or personal choices. It also depends on science, rescue teams, habitat monitoring, fisheries rules, and long-term public systems. If those systems weaken, marine wildlife can pay the price. Marine biology listeners will learn why protecting species requires more than passion, and why invisible infrastructure matters as much as visible activism. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

NOAA seafood safety affects more than most people realize. The seafood in your grocery store or on your restaurant plate may rely on NOAA science, inspections, fisheries data, and monitoring systems that help keep oceans productive and supply chains accountable. In this episode, we break down why this often-overlooked agency matters to everyday consumers. Seafood traceability is not just about labels. It is about knowing where fish comes from, whether it was caught legally, and whether marine ecosystems are being managed responsibly. If those systems weaken, consumers, honest fishers, and ocean wildlife all feel the impact. Ocean conservation often sounds distant, but this story is personal. One surprising truth: many people have never heard of NOAA, yet its work can influence the seafood they trust, the fisheries that survive, and the ocean protections that support future food security. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

NOAA helps protect millions of people before hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and tsunamis hit, but most people never realize how much they rely on it. In this episode, we break down the hidden systems behind weather forecasting, emergency alerts, and disaster preparedness, and why cuts to NOAA could have consequences far beyond the ocean. Natural Disasters are becoming more intense in many regions, which makes accurate forecasting more important than ever. Better models, satellites, buoys, and warning systems give families more time to evacuate, secure homes, and stay safe. If those systems weaken, mistakes become more costly. Ocean Science is not separate from your daily life. It helps power the forecasts that guide airports, ports, coastal communities, and emergency managers. This episode explains why protecting science infrastructure may be one of the most practical ways to protect people. Listen to the full episode. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Who really controls the future of the ocean, and why does progress so often feel slow? In this episode, Andrew speaks with Sarah Federman about the hidden systems behind environmental harm, corporate accountability, and why everyday people are often left carrying decisions they never made. You'll learn why protecting the ocean is bigger than personal choices, how public pressure can create tipping points for change, and why collective action helps turn frustration into momentum. This conversation connects history, business, and conservation in a way that changes how you see ocean protection. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by climate change, plastic pollution, or slow political action, this episode will help you understand where real power lives, and how people can still move it. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more ocean science, conservation, and real solutions. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Most people think companies change because they care. That is rarely how it works. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down what actually forces companies to stop harming the ocean, and why awareness alone is often not enough. Ocean Conservation pressure can come from many places: lost customers, public campaigns, employee pushback, investor concern, regulation, or personal wake-up calls inside leadership. You'll hear real examples, including how some businesses transformed when staying the same became too costly. Business Sustainability matters because if we understand what creates real change, we can stop wasting energy on tactics that do not work. This episode will help you think more strategically about advocacy, accountability, and protecting the ocean in a world shaped by business decisions. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for weekday ocean science updates.

Ocean Conservation felt like it was moving forward, so why does it suddenly feel like everything is being undone? In this episode, Andrew Lewin breaks down why environmental progress rarely happens in a straight line, and why setbacks do not always mean failure. If you have felt discouraged by policy rollbacks, delayed protections, or repeated fights over the same issues, this episode is for you. Marine Protection often moves in waves. History shows that accountability rises, falls, and rises again. Andrew explores why political shifts can reverse gains, how public pressure still matters, and why today's losses may become tomorrow's momentum. A surprising truth: some of the most important victories start after people think the fight is over. Ocean Action is not about waiting for perfect momentum. It is about staying engaged, adapting your strategy, and thinking long term. If you care about protecting the ocean, this episode will help you stay in the fight. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for weekday ocean science updates. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Why do simple choices like buying groceries, using plastic, or ordering dinner feel so loaded? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we unpack the hidden systems that push environmental responsibility onto consumers instead of solving problems where they start. If you've ever felt guilty trying to "do the right thing," this episode is for you. Consumer choices matter, but they were never meant to carry the full weight of ocean conservation, climate action, or ethical supply chains. We explore seafood sourcing, AI data centers, plastic waste, and why corporations often benefit when responsibility gets pushed downstream to everyday people. The surprising truth: guilt is not the solution, clarity is. Real change happens when we push accountability upstream, where decisions, power, and profit actually live. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more weekday ocean stories and real conservation insight. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Caring about the ocean should feel meaningful, so why does it often feel exhausting instead? In this episode, we unpack why so many people experience eco-anxiety, ocean overwhelm, and the sense that nothing they do matters.   You'll learn why "do your part" messaging can backfire when collective problems are treated like personal failures. More importantly, you'll hear what research and real-world experience show actually helps: community, collective action, and finding people who care alongside you.   If you've ever felt stuck, discouraged, or emotionally drained by environmental news, this episode offers a better path forward, one built on connection, momentum, and hope.   Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more weekday ocean science updates.

Antarctica may feel distant, frozen, and disconnected from everyday life, but what happens there can shape sea level rise, ocean circulation, climate systems, and the future health of marine ecosystems around the world. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, part of the Surfacing Secrets: Explore the Ocean, Know the Planet series with Ocean Networks Canada, we go behind the scenes of an international mission to install real-time ocean monitoring systems in one of the hardest places on Earth to study. Joining me are Juanjo Canales, a marine scientist from Spain with decades of experience in ocean technology and Antarctic research, Bradley Wells, an engineer from Ocean Networks Canada who helped design and deploy the observatory systems, and Ruchie Custan, who shares her experience working on this groundbreaking expedition. Together, they reveal what it takes to bring advanced ocean science into one of the most remote environments on the planet. This conversation explores why Antarctica has remained one of the least observed places on Earth, how new subsea observatories are changing that, and why better data from the polar ocean could help us understand the future of climate and marine ecosystems worldwide. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for weekday ocean science updates.

Antarctic glaciers are melting, but the real story is not just about ice disappearing. It is about what happens next, and how fast those changes can impact sea levels, coastlines, and ecosystems around the world. Glacier collapse is not a slow, steady process. In some cases, it can happen rapidly, triggered by warming oceans, weakening ice shelves, and shifting climate patterns. Scientists are now racing to understand how unstable these systems really are and what it means for the future. In this episode, we break down how glaciers work, why Antarctica matters more than most people realize, and what could happen if key ice systems fail. Because this is not just about the poles. It is about your future. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Emperor Penguins are facing a problem most people don't fully understand, and it's happening faster than expected. In this episode, we break down what's really happening in Antarctica as sea ice disappears beneath emperor penguin colonies. These penguins rely on stable ice to breed, raise chicks, and survive, but warming oceans and changing climate patterns are making that ice less reliable every year. Climate change is not just melting ice, it is disrupting an entire life cycle. You'll learn how emperor penguins depend on the precise timing of ice formation, why early ice break-up can wipe out entire generations, and what scientists are seeing in recent satellite data. This is not a distant problem, it is already happening. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more ocean science updates. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Leopard seals are often seen as one of the most dangerous predators in Antarctica, but what if that story is incomplete? Leopard seals play a critical role in the Antarctic food web, influencing populations of penguins, fish, and even other marine mammals. Their behavior, hunting patterns, and distribution are shaped by sea ice, climate change, and shifting ecosystems. Yet despite their importance, we still know surprisingly little about how their populations are changing. In this episode, we explore how leopard seals fit into the Antarctic ecosystem, why their role is more complex than most people realize, and what their future might look like as the ocean continues to change. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more ocean science and conservation insights. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

What if Antarctica isn't changing as slowly as we think? And what if one of the biggest drivers of that change… is an animal most people only see as a top predator? In this episode, we look at what orcas are really doing in Antarctica, and why it might surprise you. These aren't just whales passing through a frozen landscape. They are specialized hunters with learned behaviors, working in coordinated groups, and possibly reshaping the ecosystem in ways scientists are still trying to understand. As sea ice melts and new areas of the Southern Ocean open up, orcas may be gaining access to places they couldn't reach as easily before. That shift could increase pressure on seals and penguins that already depend on ice for survival. But this story isn't about villains and victims. It's about how fast ecosystems can change when climate, habitat, and predator behavior all collide. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Antarctic orcas are more diverse than most people realize How coordinated hunting shows signs of culture, not just instinct What shrinking sea ice means for predator and prey dynamics; and Why scientists may still be behind in understanding what's really happening Antarctica might feel distant. But what's happening there could reshape how the ocean works far beyond the ice. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more ocean science stories that explain what's really going on beneath the surface.

Tuna fisheries are often seen as one of the biggest challenges in ocean conservation. But that story is starting to change, and most people have not caught up to it yet. In this episode, you'll hear how tuna fisheries in many parts of the world are actually improving. Better science, stronger monitoring, and more coordinated international management are helping rebuild stocks and reduce pressure on key species. To understand what's really happening, I spoke with Susan Jackson, President of the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation. She shares how data-driven decisions, harvest rules, and industry collaboration are changing the way tuna is managed globally. But progress does not mean the job is finished. Some stocks are still under pressure, and continued effort is critical to keep things moving in the right direction. This episode breaks down what's working, where challenges remain, and why tuna fisheries may be one of the most important examples of how ocean conservation can succeed when science and policy align. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Most people assume fisheries are either working or failing, but very few people know how the system actually works. In this episode, I break down the hidden process behind fishing limits, stock assessments, political negotiations, and the science that shapes what ends up on your plate. You will learn why fisheries management can go wrong, what happens when countries ignore the science, and how better systems like harvest rules and stronger accountability can help fisheries recover. This episode also sets up tomorrow's interview with Susan Jackson from ISSF, where we will reveal just how far tuna fisheries have come.  Follow How to Protect the Ocean for more weekday ocean stories that connect science, policy, and real-world action. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Tuna sustainability might be the biggest ocean success story you've never heard about. Nearly 100 percent of global tuna catch is no longer experiencing overfishing, but that didn't happen by accident. There is a hidden system behind the scenes that most people never see, and it is quietly changing how fisheries work around the world. Harvest rules for fisheries are replacing political negotiations with science-based decisions. Instead of arguing every year about how much fish to catch, managers now use pre-agreed rules that respond automatically to changes in fish populations. This shift has helped tuna stocks recover and stay stable, even as global demand continues to grow. Ocean conservation solutions are often criticized for failing, but tuna shows what happens when science, industry, and policy align. In this episode, you will learn how this system works, why it matters for the seafood you eat, and what it tells us about the future of ocean protection. 👉 Follow the show to get daily ocean insights that connect science to real-world impact.

Tuna fishing is a global industry, but how do we actually know if we're catching too much? Every time you eat tuna, you're relying on a system most people have never heard of: stock assessments. These scientific models estimate how many fish are in the ocean, how fast they reproduce, and how much can be caught without causing long-term damage. Stock assessments are not about counting every fish, they're about making the best possible decisions with imperfect data. Scientists use catch records, fishing effort, and biological information to understand whether tuna populations are healthy or at risk. But the science is only part of the story. In this episode, we break down how tuna stock assessments work, why they are critical for sustainable seafood, and how organizations like ISSF help ensure that decisions are based on science, not just politics. You'll also learn how past failures shaped today's system, and why the future of tuna depends on getting these calculations right. 👉 Follow How to Protect the Ocean for daily ocean science insights. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

What if one of the most popular seafoods in the world isn't the disaster story you've been told? Tuna has been at the center of overfishing conversations for decades. But something changed, and most people have no idea. In this episode, we unpack the hidden system behind tuna fishing, how it nearly failed, and what turned it around. This isn't about saying everything is fine. It's about understanding what actually worked, why it worked, and what it means for the future of ocean conservation. Because if tuna can improve, it raises a bigger question: Why isn't every fishery doing the same? 👉 Follow How to Protect the Ocean for your weekday ocean science updates. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube    

Ocean careers often look straightforward from the outside, but the reality is far more complicated. In this episode, Andrew flips the script and shares what actually happened behind the scenes as he landed his latest role, including the uncertainty, tradeoffs, and decisions most people never see. Career paths in ocean conservation are rarely linear. From networking to timing to unexpected opportunities, this episode breaks down how jobs really happen in this field and why chasing the "perfect job" can sometimes hold you back more than help you. If you're trying to build a career in marine science, conservation, or science communication, this episode will help you rethink how you approach your next move and what actually matters long term. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

A lot of people dream about working in ocean conservation, but far fewer talk about what it takes to actually stay in the field. In this episode, Andrew breaks down why so many careers in ocean conservation burn out, from low pay and short-term contracts to emotional exhaustion and unstable funding. You'll hear the truth about the three major career paths in the field, why passion alone is not enough, and how building transferable skills, multiple income streams, and your own platform can help you create a career that lasts. This episode is for anyone trying to get into ocean conservation, stay in it, or rethink what a sustainable path really looks like. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

You got the degree. You built some skills. Maybe you even started networking. So why does getting that first real job in ocean conservation still feel nearly impossible? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, I break down the real reason so many early career ocean professionals get stuck. I talk about the experience trap, how to rethink what counts as experience, why small projects matter more than people realize, and how strategic volunteering can either help your career or waste your time. I also share how reputation, reliability, and offering value first can open doors that job boards never will. If you are trying to break into marine biology, ocean conservation, science communication, fisheries, research, policy, or any ocean-related field, this episode will help you stop waiting for the perfect opportunity and start building one. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

A lot of people think the path into ocean conservation is simple: get the degree, get the experience, then get the opportunity. But that is not how it works for many people anymore. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, I talk about why waiting for permission, waiting to feel ready, or waiting for someone to teach you everything first can quietly kill momentum before your career even begins. I break down the myth that credentials alone will open doors, the real skills employers and collaborators notice, and why building proof of your abilities matters more than saying you are passionate. If you want to work in ocean conservation, marine science communication, policy, data, or research support, this episode will help you think differently about how careers actually get built. Because the people getting noticed are often the ones who start before they feel ready. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

If you've been applying for ocean conservation jobs and hearing nothing back, this episode is for you. Too many people think opportunities come from polished resumes and endless job applications. In reality, many careers in ocean science and conservation are built through trust, familiarity, and real relationships. In this episode, Andrew breaks down the hidden job market in ocean conservation, why cold applications often fail, what networking actually means, where to build connections in this field, and how to reach out without sounding awkward. This is not about asking for a job. It is about becoming known before the opportunity shows up. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean conservation is changing, and science alone is no longer enough. In this episode, Andrew Lewin speaks with Peter Simek, CEO of EarthX, about how business, investment, and storytelling are shaping the future of environmental solutions. They discuss why collaboration across industries is critical, how market-driven innovation is accelerating impact, and what it takes to turn ideas into scalable solutions. If you want to understand how ocean protection actually happens in the real world, this episode breaks it down. Sign up for Earthx20206: https://earthx.org/ Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Ocean storytelling is not just communication, it is a conservation tool. Why do people ignore climate data, overfishing statistics, and coral reef loss, even when the science is clear? In this episode, we break down the psychology behind why facts alone fail to drive action, and how storytelling can bridge the gap between knowledge and behavior. You will learn how emotional connection, relatability, and narrative framing influence real-world ocean conservation outcomes. Science communication is evolving, and the ocean depends on it. We explore real examples like the UN's "Don't Choose Extinction" campaign and visual storytelling from SeaLegacy, alongside insights from climate communication research. This episode shows how effective storytelling can increase engagement, inspire action, and reshape how the public connects with ocean issues like overfishing, coral bleaching, and biodiversity loss. If you care about protecting the ocean, this episode will change how you communicate. Whether you are a scientist, conservationist, or ocean advocate, you will walk away with practical strategies to make your message resonate and drive impact.

Ocean conservation solutions often fail, not because the science is wrong, but because the right people aren't working together. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down why collaboration between scientists, businesses, and policymakers is essential to solving today's biggest ocean challenges. Ocean collaboration is already transforming conservation, and the results are powerful. Using real-world examples like Global Fishing Watch, you'll learn how satellite data, artificial intelligence, and policy advocacy came together to expose illegal fishing on a global scale. We also explore how cross-industry partnerships are influencing policy, unlocking funding, and accelerating real-world impact. Ocean solutions depend on people who can connect science, business, and policy. Whether you're an early-career scientist, a conservationist, or someone interested in protecting the ocean, this episode will help you understand how meaningful change actually happens and how you can be part of it. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube    

Ocean conservation is no longer driven by science alone, startups are stepping in to turn ideas into real-world solutions at scale. In this episode, we explore how companies like Coral Vita and Running Tide are accelerating reef restoration and experimenting with ocean-based carbon removal, bringing speed, funding, and innovation into a space that has traditionally moved slowly. Ocean startups are reshaping how solutions are built, tested, and scaled. You will learn how these companies combine science, business models, and emerging technologies to tackle coral bleaching, climate change, and ecosystem loss. We also break down the risks, including overpromising, ecological uncertainty, and the need for strong governance to guide innovation. Ocean solutions are evolving quickly, and understanding where startups fit into conservation could change how we approach protecting marine ecosystems. This episode connects science, policy, and business so you can see what is actually working and what might define the future of ocean protection. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube    

Ocean conservation is failing to scale, and it's not because of a lack of science. In this episode, we break down why decades of ocean research have not stopped overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss, and what is really holding solutions back. Ocean solutions need more than discovery, they need adoption. You'll learn how business models, financial incentives, and scalable systems are the missing link between scientific breakthroughs and real-world impact. We explore why many conservation efforts stall, and what separates small successes from global change. Ocean innovation is already happening, and it's changing the game. From nutrient capture systems that turn pollution into profit to scalable environmental solutions, this episode shows how aligning economics with conservation can drive faster, larger impact than traditional approaches. Follow How to Protect the Ocean to learn how science, policy, and business come together to create real ocean solutions.