The Ocean Optimism Podcast

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...

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 b...

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 s...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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. Nevert...

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 conserv...

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

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. 

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 emotion...

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...