Dr. Tierney Thys is a marine biologist, National Geographic Explorer, TED speaker, and co-founder of Around the World in 80 Fabrics. In this episode of the Powerful Ladies Podcast, she joins Kara to explore how curiosity can change your life, and possibly the world. They discuss biodiversity, mental health, fast fashion, and why protecting the planet starts with getting outside.

From her work on giant ocean sunfish to her mission to shift how we think about textiles, Tierney reveals how she balances big ideas with practical action, and why she believes the key to climate optimism lies at the intersection of science, creativity, and community.

This episode is for anyone wondering what they can do to make a difference.

Chapters:

(00:01:35) Meet Dr. Tierney Thys: Marine Biologist & Explorer

(00:05:22) Giant Sunfish, Sea Turtles, and a Life of Curiosity

(00:08:41) Around the World in 80 Fabrics and Textile Storytelling

(00:13:20) Fast Fashion’s Environmental Impact and Alternatives

(00:17:33) Building Climate Optimism Through Connection

(00:22:10) Nature Imagery and the Science of Mental Health

(00:26:45) Why Cities Need More Access to Wild Spaces

(00:31:18) How Curiosity Leads to Conservation

(00:36:06) Lessons from Global Travel and Indigenous Practices

(00:40:12) Empowering the Next Generation Through Education

(00:45:00) Living More Sustainably and Shopping with Intention

(00:50:14) How to Get Involved and Support Planetary Wellbeing

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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