Manta Rays: Ocean Giants, Sacred Guides

The Quest for a Constellation in the Galapagos Marine Reserve

Set sail with us to the Galapagos Marine Reserve, one of the most unique and stunning environments on Earth! In this special episode featuring live interviews from the expedition at sea, you'll hear from an unlikely group connected by an immense love for the ocean. Olly, Henry, and Angus are three friends from the UK who took a sabatical year to sail their vessel Good Mood 4 from England to Australia. On the way, they made a stop in San Cristobal, Galapagos, to pick up researchers from Universidad San Francisco de Quito and the Galapagos Whale Shark Project. Katie, SeaKeepers' Science Liaison and podcast host, hopped on too, to document the scientific impact of the expedition. Though the elusive constellation of female whale sharks remained just out of reach, the team shared compelling insights about marine conservation efforts, the unique biodiversity of the region, and the ongoing quest to protect these gentle giants. We reconvened later with Dr. Alex Hearn to chat about the data collected during the week and reminisce about our time conducting shark research, snokeling with penguins and manta rays, and connecting with each other and nature under sunsets on the open sea.  To support this ongoing research or host scientists from the Galapagos for another leg of their research, visit www.SeaKeepers.org. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Mapping the Last Uncharted Frontier: The Seabed 2030 Mission

As we enter a season of reflection and gratitude, we turn our attention to one of the most awe-inspiring and least explored parts of our planet: the seafloor. In this episode, we’re joined by Steve Hall and Helen Snaith from Seabed 2030, a global initiative working to map 100% of the world’s ocean floor by the year 2030. Together, we explore the importance of ocean mapping for science, conservation, climate resilience, and navigation—and how citizen scientists around the world are playing a surprising and essential role. From submarine canyons to undersea mountains, the ocean floor holds answers to questions we haven’t even thought to ask. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of exploration and give thanks for the ocean's vast, mysterious depths. Every mission begins with a map. Explore the BathyGlobe at https://seabed2030.org/ and learn more about The International SeaKeepers Society at www.SeaKeepers.org.  [http://www.SeaKeepers.org.]   Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Into the Abyss: Stories, Science & the Women Who Dive Deep

This October, we’re heading into the abyss—where the pressure is crushing, the darkness is complete, and the mysteries of the deep sea await. In this special spooky-season episode, we’re joined by bestselling author Susan Casey (The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean) and deep-sea explorer Dr. Dawn Wright, the first Black woman to dive to the deepest part of the ocean. Together, they unravel the science and storytelling behind deep ocean exploration, mapping the unknown, and the power of women in STEAM fields. From bioluminescent creatures to submarine descents that feel like science fiction, we explore how curiosity, courage, and communication drive conservation in one of Earth’s most extreme environments. Journey with us beyond the limits of light and sound, where science meets the unknown, at www.seakeepers.org. [http://www.seakeepers.org.]     Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Manta Rays: Ocean Giants, Sacred Guides

This month, we're celebrating one of the ocean’s most graceful and awe-inspiring creatures: the manta ray. Lydia Green from Manta Watch New Zealand joins us to explore the fascinating science of manta conservation and the deep cultural connections these gentle giants hold in communities across the Pacific. We’ll also hear a special feature from Melissa White, SeaKeepers’ South Pacific Director, who shares insights into the significance of mantas in the region and the growing efforts to protect them. From sacred symbolism to citizen science, discover how research, respect, and local knowledge are shaping the future of manta ray conservation. Learn more and support ongoing manta research at www.SeaKeepers.org [http://www.SeaKeepers.org].   Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

From the Desk to the Deep: Georgia Aquarium Sparks Young Minds

In celebration of UN International Youth Day, this episode shines a light on the power of education and youth engagement in ocean conservation. We’re joined by Bailey Dawson from the Georgia Aquarium and Melissa Rowe, an educator who participated in the SeaKeepers' Georgia Aquarium Teacher Workshop. Together, they share how hands-on experiences and immersive programming are inspiring both teachers and students to become ocean advocates, starting right in the classroom. From lesson plans to field trips, and from student curiosity to real-world science, discover how the Georgia Aquarium is helping to foster the next generation of ocean stewards through education, creativity, and collaboration. Learn more about how SeaKeepers and Georgia Aquarium are working together to make marine science more accessible and impactful at www.SeaKeepers.org. Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).