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The Ocean Optimism Podcast
Welcome to the Ocean Optimism podcast, where hope and positivity take center stage in the conversation about our oceans. Join host Ellen Spooner, a scientists and storyteller, as she explores the untold stories of how we are already making a difference toward taking care of our ocean. In each episode, Ellen interviews scientists, activists, and leaders who are working tirelessly to preserve and protect our ocean's health.
Did you know that we have already rebuilt 45 stocks of marine fish populations in the U.S. after overfishing? Or that a marine sanctuary in the Galápagos protects the world's highest abundance of sharks? These are just a few examples of the positive steps we are taking to ensure a sustainable future for our oceans.
At Ocean Optimism, we focus on solutions rather than problems and on connections rather than differences. We recognize and respect the many challenges facing our oceans, but we also believe that a constant stream of "doom and gloom" stories will only lead to a sense of hopelessness and inaction.
Our mission is to create a new narrative of hope for our oceans by celebrating success and encouraging collaboration between change-makers. We aim to support people in moving beyond documenting decline and towards taking action to safeguard our oceans.
So join us as we explore the inspiring stories of those who are making a difference in ocean conservation, and learn how you too can become part of the ocean optimism movement. Episodes drop on the last Monday of the month, and you can find out more about Ocean Optimism and how to get involved at www.oceanoptimism.org.
Episodes
13 episodes
The Port of San Diego's Innovative Blue Economy Incubator with Former Commissioner Castellanos, Paula, and Jason.
Dive into the transformative power of the Blue Economy with the Port of San Diego's pioneers: Former Commissioner and 2023 Chairman Rafael Castellanos, Program Director Paula Sylvia, and Vice President for Planning and Environment Jason Giffen....
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How One Business is Prioritizing Sustainability with Ini Ghidirmic and Doriane Zalewski
In today's unique episode, we are excited to engage with voices from the corporate world, advocating for sustainability. We sit down with two leaders from a company not only dedicated to sustainability but also one that sponsors our very own Oc...
Partnerships and Community Foster Ocean Conservation in Fiji with Dr. Joeli Veitayaki
The Ocean Optimism podcast features inspiring stories of ocean conservation successes and solutions. The host, Ellen Spooner, interviews scientists, activists, and leaders who are creating a better future for our oceans. The aim is to broaden l...
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10 Years of California's Marine Protected Areas: Signs of Success with Anupa Asokan
In this episode of the Ocean Optimism podcast, host Ellen Spooner interviews Anupa Asokan, Senior Ocean Advocate for the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC https://www.nrdc.org/ ). Anupa's extensive exper...
Island Nations Are Champions of Ocean Conservation & Building Thriving Communities with Dr. Kathryn Mengerink
Dive in with us on the season 2 premiere of the Ocean Optimism Podcast! Host Ellen Spooner interviews Dr. Kathryn Mengerink, Executive Director of the Waitt Institute, as they explore marine spatial planning, sustainable fisheries, Blue Economy...
How a Rebel with a Cause is Diversifying the Coast with Founder Risa
In this episode, we dive deep into the shores of change and unity with a truly inspiring guest – Risa, the visionary founder of Paddle for Peace. In the aftermath of George Floyd's tragic passing, Risa organized an event, which unexpectedly saw...
How Marc Chavez Helps Youth Reconnect with the Ocean and Their Indigenous Roots"
In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of Indigenous practices, conservation, and the transformative power of adventure. Join us as we sit down with Marc Chavez, the visionary founder of "Native Like Water". With over 21 years of dedicate...
Guardians of Casa Beach: Jane Reldan's Triumph in Protecting San Diego's Vulnerable Seals
Jane Reldan, M.D., of the Seal Conservancy tells the story of recovering from a tragic loss by making it her mission to protect newborn seals along the beach. Casa Beach in La Jolla is the only...
100 countries commit to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030 with Dr. Heather Koldewey
We interview Dr. Koldewey about her experience at the 2022 United Nations Ocean Conference. Heather Koldewey is the co-founder of Project Seahorse and head of marine and f...
How We Can Save Sharks with Dr. David Shiffman
In this episode, we interview Dr. David Shiffman, who is a shark biologist and science communication expert. He tells us about the problems and solutions to shark conservation and discusses his book "Why Sharks Matter." You can find the book he...
Securing $300M: Paloma Aguirre on Tackling Cross-Border Water Pollution
We interview Imperial Beach City Council Member Paloma Aguirre about the cross border water pollution crisis. She offers great insight into how your actions make a difference and how a small group of individuals were able to secure $300 million...
Emotional Implications of Environmental Doom and Gloom - Dr. Elin Kelsey
In this episode we interview Dr. Elin Kelsey. She is a leader of hopeful, solutions-focused environmental movements. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria, in Canada at the School of Environmental Studi...
Why Ocean Optimism Matters with Dr. Nancy Knowlton
This is the inaugural episode of The Ocean Optimism podcast. The Ocean Optimism podcast shares stories, not often heard, about ocean conservation successes. In this episode, I interview Dr. Nancy Knowlton, coral reef biologist, and one of the f...
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