This is Marine Conservation | ocean science, stories, and solutions to protect our blue planet

If you’ve ever dreamed of working in marine conservation or becoming a marine scientist, especially in hands-on, field-based roles, this episode is for you.In this honest and unfiltered solo episode, I’m sharing three things I’m learning in real time about building a career in marine science. This isn’t advice from someone who has “made it.” It’s perspective from someone in the messy middle: balancing seasonal field work, bartending shifts, continuing education, networking attempts, and ocean-sized dreams.Together we'll chat about:Why you probably won’t find your dream marine conservation job on IndeedWhy passion alone doesn’t pay the bills (but still matters deeply)Why non-linear, zigzag career paths are actually the norm in this fieldThis isn’t polished advice. This is my lived experience.If you're navigating the scrappy season of marine conservation, trust me, you've got this. This one is for you.Episode Show NotesCasey's Instagram - @caseysnook_Podcast Instagram - @thisismarineconservationSay hello! - [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Nate Andrews, my boss and mentor at the RI DEM Division of Marine Fisheries. We chat about his original inspiration to be a scientist and the career path that led him to DEM.Nate now works on the Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS), a program that studies recreational fishers and uses data to make important management decisions. We chat about how data collected from everyday anglers feeds into NOAA’s Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), and why accurate catch and effort data is essential for sustainable fishing. Nate explains complex concepts like catch per unit effort in a way that actually makes sense, and shows how small data points can influence big management decisions.Our conversation also dives into fish identification, stewardship, and the human side of fisheries science. Nate shares his personal passion for the ocean, what it’s like working directly with fishing communities, and why participation and trust are just as important as numbers and statistics when it comes to protecting the ocean.Whether you’re an angler, a science nerd, or someone who simply loves the ocean, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the data behind every cast— and how better data truly leads to better fishing.Episode Show Notes (click for all the links!)Learn more about APAISApply to work with us on the APAIS Program!Learn more about the Division of Marine Fisheries and the RI Marine Fisheries CouncilCheck out Nate's fish print artCasey's Instagram - @caseysnook_Podcast Instagram - @thisismarineconservationSay hello! - [email protected]

What happens to fishing gear when it’s lost at sea? And how does it impact whales, fisheries, and our oceans?In this episode, I’m joined by Fritz McGirr, a former touring percussionist turned marine biologist and self-proclaimed “ocean garbage fella.” Fritz works with the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown, Massachusetts, where he helps recover ghost gear (ALDFG: Abandoned, Lost, or Otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear).We talk about how derelict gear is located (from fisherman intel to sonar and grappling grids), what researchers record when gear is pulled up, how this work connects to North Atlantic right whale protection, and why “recycling” isn’t as simple as we’ve been told. Fritz also shares small, realistic ways to reduce plastic—and a hopeful ocean win tied to Boston Harbor.Episode Show NotesFritz's Instagram - @FritzMcGirrCheck out the Center for Coastal Studies and its Marine Debris and Plastics ProgramLearn to freedive with Fritz at East Coast DiversCasey's Instagram - @caseysnook_Podcast Instagram - @thisismarineconservationSay hello! - [email protected]

What is the High Seas Treaty, and why is it being called one of the biggest ocean conservation wins in decades? In this beginner-friendly episode of This Is Marine Conservation, I break down the High Seas Treaty (also known as the UN agreement on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction) and explain what it means for the future of the ocean.You’ll learn what the high seas are, why they’ve been so difficult to protect, how this treaty makes large-scale marine protected areas possible, and why protecting the high seas matters to everyone, even if you live far from the coast. I also explain what treaty ratification means, when the agreement became legally binding, what happens next, and how you can take action to support high seas protection.Episode Show NotesLearn more about the United Nations BBNJ AgreementSend a message to your country's government urging them to ratify the High Seas Treaty (takes literally 2 minutes!)Casey's Instagram - @caseysnook_Podcast Instagram - @thisismarineconservationSay hello! - [email protected]

What does conservation actually look like in everyday life — beyond policies, protests, and headlines?In this episode, I’m sharing what I learned during a summer working in the field interviewing recreational saltwater fishers in Rhode Island. What began as a straightforward data collection job with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management quickly turned into an unexpected masterclass in conservation, stewardship, and the power of paying attention.I talk about how recreational fishers often act as unofficial data collectors, why people protect the places they feel connected to, and how conservation values are passed down through stories, habits, and generations. I also explore why stewardship is often quiet and habitual, and how joy, routine, and emotional connection to nature can be some of the most powerful drivers of conservation action.Whether you’re a fisher, diver, beachgoer, or simply someone who loves the natural world, this episode is an invitation to rethink what conservation really looks like, and why noticing, connecting, and finding joy in nature might be where it truly begins.Episode Show Notes - https://caseysnook.com/summer-interviewing-recreational-fishers-conservation-lessonsLearn more about the RI APAIS program - https://dem.ri.gov/natural-resources-bureau/marine-fisheries/recreational-saltwater-fishing/apais-programCasey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caseysnook_/ Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisismarineconservation/Say hello! - [email protected]

This Is Marine Conservation is a podcast for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to protect it—without feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.Hosted by marine conservationist and field scientist Casey Snook, this show explores the science, stories, and solutions behind protecting our oceans. Through solo episodes and conversations with experts, you’ll learn how marine conservation really works, what careers in ocean science look like, and how everyday people can take meaningful action for a healthier planet.Whether you’re a marine professional, a student, or simply someone who cares deeply about the sea, this podcast is here to educate, inspire optimism, and build a community committed to ocean conservation. Because protecting the ocean starts with understanding it.Episode Show Notes - https://caseysnook.com/this-is-marine-conservation-podcast-origin-storyCasey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caseysnook_/ Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisismarineconservation/Say hello! - [email protected]

Welcome to This Is Marine Conservation, the podcast dedicated to ocean protection, marine science, and the stories that bring our blue planet to life. I'm your host, Casey Snook—a marine scientist, environmental optimist, and lifelong ocean nerd.This podcast is your go-to space for marine conservation, ocean discovery, marine biology, science communication, activism, and plenty of salty adventure. Here, you’ll learn real, practical ways to help the ocean no matter where you live. My guests and I explore the science, stories, and solutions shaping the future of our seas, making big topics feel accessible, inspiring, and actionable for everyone.Whether you're a current or aspiring marine professional, a scuba diver, a student, or simply someone who loves the big blue and wants to make a difference, you’ll discover how to support a healthier, more vibrant ocean one episode at a time.The ocean needs you, and this is where your impact starts.