The Ocean Optimism Podcast - podcast cover

The Ocean Optimism Podcast

Ellen Spoonerwww.buzzsprout.com

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.

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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. Explore the innovative Blue Economy Incubator and discover how it's pioneering a path towards ocean conservation through sustainable aquaculture and advanced blue technology ventures. This episode is a journey from arid heartlands to vibrant coastlines, u...

Jan 23, 202440 minSeason 3Ep. 1

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 Ocean Optimism podcast. We want to delve deep into their sustainable endeavors and understand what fuels their eco-conscious passion. We're joined by: Ini Ghidirmic , the Director of Pacific Capital Partners and FMR Brands. Connect with Ini on LinkedIn Doria...

Sep 16, 202341 minSeason 2Ep. 4

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 listener horizons and inspire them to make a difference in ocean conservation. In this episode, Ellen introduces her guest, Dr. Joeli Veitayaki, a renowned scientist from Fiji. Dr. Veitayaki serves as the Blue Prosperity Fiji advisor for science, community ...

Jul 02, 202354 minSeason 2Ep. 3

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 experience includes work with the World Surf League, the X Prize Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This discussion revolves around the 10 year review process for California's Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network. The episode emphasizes the significance of ...

Jun 11, 202342 minSeason 2Ep. 2

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, and the Blue Prosperity programs. Dr. Mengerink shares her journey from being inspired by Jellyfish neuroscience to working in the world of law and policy to preserve our ocean resources for future generations. Discover how her team partners with island ...

Apr 26, 202342 minSeason 2Ep. 1

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 hundreds of attendees. With passion and eloquence, she delivered a speech that not only moved hearts but also ignited a movement. Paddle for Peace was born. Paddle for Peace, now a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) Organization, has an undying commitment to diver...

Oct 25, 202233 minSeason 1Ep. 8

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 dedicated service, NLW offers a unique blend of experiences curated through an Indigenous lens. From riding the waves in surf expeditions to the rhythmic healings of music as medicine, Marc unravels the stories, the passions, and the purpose behind NLW's initiativ...

Sep 26, 20221 hr 12 minSeason 1Ep. 7

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 NOAA-recognized mainland harbor seal rookery between the U.S./Mexico Border and Ventura County, 160 miles to the north. It is very rare for harbor seals to choose an urbanized setting for their home. Nevertheless, the La Jolla Seals have been documented to exhibit extreme site fidelity to Casa Beach becau...

Aug 21, 202232 minSeason 1Ep. 6

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 freshwater for the Zoological Society of London - London Zoo Aquarium . She is also an honorary professor for University of Exeter and a National Geographic explorer. Her research interests focus on marine and freshwater conservation, seahorse biology and genetics, and the impact of the aquarium trade on wild populations of fish...

Jul 24, 202231 minSeason 1Ep. 5

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 here: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Sharks-Matter-Misunderstood-Predator-ebook/dp/B097F79DLP Or follow Dr. Shiffman on Twitter @WhySharksMatter

Jun 27, 202228 minSeason 1Ep. 4

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 from the U.S. Federal Government to address the problem.

May 23, 202237 minSeason 1Ep. 3

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 Studies. She is also a consultant helping clients such as Monterey Bay Aquarium, share science-based stories of hope. Today we are going to talk with her about the emotional implications of the narrative of environmental doom and gloom on children and adults and how she co...

Apr 25, 202233 minSeason 1Ep. 2

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 founders of the #OceanOptimism movement. Listen in as we discuss why its important to share ocean conservation success stories and solutions. Check out more ocean optimism on Twitter using #Ocean Optimism on Tik Tok via EllensOceanOptimism, the website ocea...

Mar 21, 202234 minSeason 1Ep. 1
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