The Marine Conservation Happy Hour is a podcast that looks at the many different sides of Marine Science and Conservation in an informal setting - a during a pub Happy Hour, chatting casually over a few (or more) drinks. The show is co-hosted by @DrScarlettSmash and @Craken_McCraic. Everyone is a marine scientist who is passionate about the Ocean, marine mammals (whales, seals, dolphins, porpoises, polar bears and more), sharks and other fish, invertebrates (especially squid & octopuses beca ...
…
continue reading
Marine Mammal Science is a podcast covering some of the latest scientific research on marine mammals – whales and dolphins, polar bears, seals and sea lions, manatees and dugongs, and sea otters. The podcast is produced by Absolutely Smashing Events and Consulting on behalf of the Society for Marine Mammalogy and the journal Marine Mammal Science. The host, editor and producer is Dr. Ashley Scarlett, familiarly known as Dr Scarlett Smash.
…
continue reading
Dive into the Depths: Join Andrew Lewin on 'How to Protect the Ocean' – Your Gateway to Exclusive Ocean Insights! Explore the latest, uncharted realms of ocean science and conservation that you won't find anywhere else. Andrew takes you on an inspiring journey to uncover the hidden gems of oceanic discovery and initiatives. Tune in to discover how you can transform your life for a better ocean, one episode at a time. The How To Protect The Ocean is your resource to keep you informed on the l ...
…
continue reading

1
US Opens Up Marine Protected Areas to Fishing: What This Means for Ocean Conservation
8:34
8:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:34Fisheries: In this episode, we see the surprising news that the U.S. government is opening up parts of its marine protected areas (MPAs) to commercial fishing. This rollback of protections in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument has sparked debate about the future of sustainable fisheries and marine biodiversity. Ocean: We explore wh…
…
continue reading

1
The Latest Gossip on Whaling (with guest Rob Read)
20:46
20:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:46Dr Scarlett Smash and Dr Craken MacCraic discuss some of the behind the scence gossip on whaling with Rob Read from Neptunes Pirates (https://www.neptunespirates.uk/). If you thought that whaling was already scandalous, just wait until you hear what is going on behind the scenes! Warning: This episode contains descriptions of whale hunting that may…
…
continue reading

1
AI-Powered Conservation: The Future of Coral Reef Protection with Andy Ridley
55:03
55:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:03Great Barrier Reef bleaching is accelerating at a dangerous pace, and yet, hope rises from a unique blend of technology, data, and collective action. In this powerful episode, Andrew talks to Andy Ridley, the founding CEO of Citizens of the Reef, about how they are building one of the most ambitious citizen science movements on the planet. They dis…
…
continue reading

1
How McKnsea Balances Her Marine Career and Content Creation to Inspire Ocean Advocacy
1:08:08
1:08:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:08Ocean conservation is more than a job—it’s a calling. In this episode, we sit down with McKenzie Margereth, known online as McKnsea, who shares her inspiring journey of making bold career decisions in marine biology while becoming a powerful voice for science communication on social media. Her story highlights the challenges and triumphs of balanci…
…
continue reading

1
Coral Restoration In Trouble: Why Saving Reefs Takes More Planting Coral
16:45
16:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:45Coral restoration is often seen as a beacon of hope for our oceans—but are we putting too much faith in it? In this episode, we dive into why coral bleaching has become an annual event, especially on the Great Barrier Reef, and whether restoration can keep up with the pace of climate change. We explore what recurring stress events mean for the long…
…
continue reading

1
How can we stop the Faroe Islands whale hunts? With Rob Read from Neptune's Pirates - Part 2
22:40
22:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:40Dr Scarlett Smash and Dr Craken MacCraic chat with Rob Read from Neptunes Pirates (https://www.neptunespirates.uk/) about how we might be able to stop the pilot whale and dolphin hunting in the Faroe Islands. Warning: This episode contains descriptions of whale hunting that may upset some listeners. Contact [email protected] for more i…
…
continue reading

1
Rebuilding Fisheries in Canada: Capelin Biomass Falling Yet Fishing Stays Open
10:57
10:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:57Rebuilding fisheries in Canada: Capelin biomass is only at 16% of its pre-collapse level, which spells disaster for northern cod's recovery. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin breaks down the troubling state of Canada’s east coast fisheries. With DFO ignoring science-based recommendations, capelin is being harvested desp…
…
continue reading

1
Shark Communication: Graduate Studies, Sharks Science, and TikTok with Kenzie Horton
1:12:08
1:12:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:08Shark communication is critical in changing their "man-eating" reputation from the movie Jaws. Sharks need protection so telling people about the wonders of sharks is essential. Marine biology is more than just a job — it’s a lifestyle driven by passion and purpose. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin speaks with marine b…
…
continue reading

1
Dire Wolf Brought Back? The Wild Science and Ethics of De-Extinction
47:21
47:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:21De-extinction is no longer just science fiction. In this episode, we dive into the controversial concept of bringing back extinct species—specifically the dire wolf—using cutting-edge genetic engineering. Inspired by the headline-grabbing efforts to resurrect woolly mammoths, scientists are now exploring how DNA from ancient canids could be used to…
…
continue reading

1
What is the grindadráp ? With Rob Read from Neptune's Pirates - Part 1
21:09
21:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:09What is the grindadráp ? Dr Scarlett Smash and Dr Craken MacCraic chat with Rob Read from Neptunes Pirates (https://www.neptunespirates.uk/) about pilot whale and dolphin hunting in the Faroe Islands. Warning: This episode contains descriptions of whale hunting that may upset some listeners. Contact [email protected] for more informati…
…
continue reading

1
Rare Intersex Southern Right Whale Discovered Through Genetic Testing
9:49
9:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:49Intersex marine mammals are an exceptionally rare topic in marine biology, and in this episode, we dive into a groundbreaking discovery of an intersex southern right whale. The whale, sampled in 1989, was recently found to possess XY chromosomes through genetic testing. This revelation opens up new conversations about sex differentiation in marine …
…
continue reading

1
Why the US Might Start Deep Sea Mining (And What It Means for the Ocean)
14:42
14:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:42Deep sea mining is making headlines as the United States considers allowing operations within its boundaries. In this episode, Andrew Lewin dives into a recent development involving a Canadian company, The Metals Company, that is pushing to mine the deep sea in US territory. What does this mean for the environment, international law, and ocean cons…
…
continue reading

1
Seafood Laws and Ocean Justice: How Legal Frameworks Shape the Future of Fisheries
1:04:07
1:04:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:07Fisheries are more than just the act of catching fish—they’re tightly woven into the fabric of science, activism, and community livelihoods. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we speak with Eva van Heukelom about the many layers of fisheries management and how sustainable practices are shaped not just by data and tradition but by the lega…
…
continue reading

1
Ocean Conservation Career Is Not A Straight Path...and that's okay
19:52
19:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:52Ocean conservation careers often don’t follow a predictable path—and that’s completely normal. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin shares why expecting a traditional, linear route in marine biology or conservation can lead to frustration. Instead, he reflects on the non-linear journeys many professionals, including himsel…
…
continue reading
Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic talk about some of the deadliest creatures in the ocean. But which creature is the real John Wick of the Seven Seas? Find out on this episode Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes or having advertisements on the show Music credits By Jolly Shore Leave "Al Fo…
…
continue reading

1
Why Talking About the Ocean in Everyday Life Can Save It
19:35
19:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:35Ocean conversations matter more than we think. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explores how the simple act of bringing up marine topics in everyday conversations—with friends, at restaurants, during social gatherings—can lead to a ripple effect of awareness, engagement, and ultimately, protection. The ocean affects all of …
…
continue reading

1
How D and D Can Help with Environmental Education Through Immersive Learning
48:52
48:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:52D and D can help with environmental education by creating immersive, story-driven learning experiences that engage students on a deeper level. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Andrew Thaler, who’s using Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) to teach environmental concepts in a way that feels more like play than a lesson. Through world-building, role-playing…
…
continue reading

1
Plastic Pollution Research: How Microplastics Threaten Coral Reefs and What We Can Do About It
1:14:42
1:14:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:42Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing threats to our oceans today. In this episode, we explore how microplastics—tiny fragments of plastic waste—make their way into tropical marine ecosystems and cause lasting damage. Whether it’s through broken-down consumer products or fishing gear, plastic pollution infiltrates ocean habitats and harms m…
…
continue reading
Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic go back in history to talk about the first marine biologist and their ground breaking discoveries more than 2000 years ago! Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes or having advertisements on the show Music credits By Jolly Shore Leave "Al For Me Grog (Trad.)"…
…
continue reading

1
How to Protect Tuna: Insights from ISSF’s Gala Moreno on Sustainable Fisheries
54:05
54:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:05Global tuna fisheries are facing mounting pressure from overfishing, bycatch, and unsustainable fishing practices. Gala Moreno from the International Sustainable Seafood Foundation (ISSF) shares her expert insights on the current state of tuna populations and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. She explains how ISSF is collaborating with fis…
…
continue reading

1
Marine Conservation Is In Trouble — Why People Aren’t Concerned About the Ocean
8:58
8:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:58Marine conservation is in trouble — and the biggest problem isn’t just pollution or overfishing. The real issue is that people are becoming disconnected from the ocean, and that lack of concern is threatening marine ecosystems worldwide. In this episode, I’m reporting from Oahu, Hawaii, where I’ve witnessed firsthand the troubling signs of ocean he…
…
continue reading
Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic chat about angel sharks and the threats faced by these endangered species in the Mediterranean Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes or having advertisements on the show Music credits By Jolly Shore Leave "Al For Me Grog (Trad.)" HandsomeForrune-FE (Adapted …
…
continue reading

1
False Killer Whale Stranding in Tasmania – Why It Happened and What We Can Learn
8:28
8:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:28False killer whale strandings in Tasmania are rare; however, on February 20, 2025, approximately 157 whales stranded and passed away, with at least 99 being euthanized after multiple attempts to float them back into the ocean failed. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, I dive into the tragic stranding of 157 false killer whales on Tasmania…
…
continue reading
Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic chat to Isadora Abuter (from HealthySeas.org) about Operation Deep Blue Legacy - a fabulous conservation project protecting historic wrecks and marine species. Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes or having advertisements on the show Music credits By Jolly …
…
continue reading

1
How the Panama Canal Expansion is Threatening Panama’s Ecosystem and Water Supply
9:57
9:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:57The Panama Canal expansion allowed bigger ships to move through the canal; however, it also allowed an invasion of saltwater and saltwater fish into a freshwater lake, which threatened freshwater fish species and half of the country's drinking water. I dive into the unintended consequences of the 2016 Panama Canal expansion. Saltwater species from …
…
continue reading

1
Protecting Manta Rays from Over-Tourism in Hawaii – Martina Wing’s Mission
1:00:15
1:00:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:15How is the rise in tourism affecting manta rays in Hawaii? Martina Wing shares her firsthand experience with the challenges of growing tourism and its impact on manta ray populations. Learn how Martina is working to protect these majestic creatures and what needs to change to ensure their survival. This eye-opening conversation reveals the delicate…
…
continue reading

1
How NOAA and EPA Layoffs Threaten Environmental Research and Public Safety
15:41
15:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:41In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we dive into the recent layoffs at NOAA and EPA, which have led to over a thousand scientists and environmental professionals losing their jobs. What does this mean for climate research, weather forecasting, and environmental protection? Join us as we unpack the consequences and what can be done to suppo…
…
continue reading

1
Do you want to build a Manatee sanctuary?
20:48
20:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:48Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic chat to Gray Baker about a fun new game he designed called Manatee Sanctuary. You too can build your own tiny mantee sanctuary by visiting the game's kickstarter page at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/warpedrealitygames/manatee-sanctuary Contact [email protected] for more information about …
…
continue reading

1
How Bahamian Music and Education Inspire Ocean Conservation
40:15
40:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:15How do you get people interested in learning about the ocean? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we speak with Bahamian artist and educator Javan Hunt, who combines music and education to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards. Discover how his nonprofit work is helping kids in the Bahamas connect with their marine environment and …
…
continue reading

1
How Much Do We Rely on Weather Forecasting? | The Truth About Weather Predictions
1:21:40
1:21:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:21:40How much do we truly depend on weather forecasting? Whether it’s planning our daily commute, scheduling outdoor events, or making critical decisions for agriculture and disaster preparedness, we rely on meteorologists and weather models more than we realize. But how accurate are these predictions, and what happens when they go wrong? In this episod…
…
continue reading

1
Are all protected areas in the ocean equal? A study on the bonus species protection
14:25
14:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:25Are OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures) just as effective as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in protecting biodiversity? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down the differences, benefits, and challenges of OECMs, particularly in Canada’s conservation strategy. Learn how fisheries closures and Indigenous-led con…
…
continue reading

1
Cod wars part 2: The British Empire strikes back
27:38
27:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:38Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic continue to chat to Richard Napolitano from the Shipwrecks and Seadogs podcast (https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com/) about the Cod Wars. In this episode things get heated in the waters around Iceland! Contact [email protected] for more information about sponsoring MCHH episodes or having adverti…
…
continue reading

1
The Vaquita is on the Edge of Extinction – Can Technology Save It?
10:45
10:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:45The vaquita porpoise (Phocoena sinus) is the rarest marine mammal, with fewer than 10 individuals remaining in the wild. Found only in Mexico’s Gulf of California, this elusive species is critically endangered due to illegal gillnet fishing for totoaba, a fish highly valued in Chinese markets. 💡 But new conservation technology is offering hope! In …
…
continue reading

1
How Sustainable Supply Chains Are Changing Business
1:20:00
1:20:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:20:00Discover how sustainable supply chains are transforming businesses worldwide! In this insightful interview, Christophe Girardier dives into the challenges and innovations in supply chain sustainability. From reducing carbon footprints to adopting ethical sourcing practices, learn how companies are making a real impact on the environment and their b…
…
continue reading

1
The Plastic Straw Ban Failed – Here’s What We Can Learn to Protect Our Oceans
16:49
16:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:49The plastic straw ban was meant to be a win for the environment—but why did it fail? In this video, we break down what went wrong, why people resisted, and what behavioral science teaches us about designing better conservation campaigns. 🌊🚯 We’ll explore: ✅ Why plastic straws became a target for bans ✅ The backlash and why some people rebelled agai…
…
continue reading

1
New Eco-Friendly Ice, Glice Synthetic Ice, Lower Energy Skating Alternative, Sustainable Skating Rink
40:19
40:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:19Are you a figure skater, hockey player, or just love gliding on ice? ❄️ Imagine skating on a surface that feels like real ice—but with zero refrigeration and lower energy costs! ⚡🌍 In this video, we explore Glice, an innovative synthetic ice that offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional rinks. Find out how it works, why it’s changing the g…
…
continue reading

1
Killer Whales vs. Great White Sharks: Genetic Proof of Predation! 🦈🐋
11:17
11:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:17Did you know that killer whales (Orcinus orca) are taking down great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) in South Africa? 🦈🐋 In this video, we break down groundbreaking research that provides genetic evidence of orcas hunting and preying on white sharks! Scientists analyzed bite wounds on a white shark carcass and found killer whale DNA, confirmi…
…
continue reading

1
The War on Science: Why NOAA and the EPA Are Under Attack
16:05
16:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:05In this episode, we explore the alarming assault on science happening within the U.S. government, specifically targeting NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Discover how these essential organizations are being undermined, why it matters for our planet, and what we can do to sup…
…
continue reading

1
Cod Wars: Episode 1 (The Phantom fish menace)
23:14
23:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:14Dr Scarlett Smash & Dr Craken MacCraic chat to Richard Napolitano from the Shipwrecks and Seadogs podcast (https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com/) about the Cod Wars. What are the Cod Wars? Is it like the Phantom Menace but fishier? Find out how countries came to blows over fish quotas. Contact [email protected] for more information abo…
…
continue reading

1
How Storytelling Connects People and Climate Change | Tao Leigh Goffe Interview
1:01:20
1:01:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:20Andrew Lewin and Tao Leigh Goffe dive deep into the intersection of storytelling, culture, and the urgent issue of climate change with renowned scholar Tao Leigh Goffe. Through an engaging conversation, we explore how storytelling serves as a bridge between individuals, communities, and the global climate crisis. Tao highlights the importance of am…
…
continue reading